Get TuneDn with R&B artist, Summer Dennis

When we’re traveling here, there and everywhere in between, music instantly grounds us on our journeys. In DETOUR’s new TuneDn column, we chat with new voices and legendary artists about the sights, sounds and wanderlust that shape who they are.

Up next: R&B artist, Summer Dennis. Here is what made the “Everything” artist who she is today, and what she’s looking forward to in the future.

Where are you from? How does your background inspire your music?

I am from Prince George’s County in Maryland, but my ethnic background traces back to Jamaica. I draw my creative inspirations from the rich tapestry of black culture, as well as embracing the diverse range of life experiences of the women from within our communities.

Where would you love to perform or give us your favorite place to perform and why?

Since I was young, I’ve dreamt of gracing the stage of the iconic Wembley Stadium in England. Countless artists I admire have taken the stage there. I vividly recall the Luther Vandross show, which my mother showed me when I was younger. I also loved the epic performance by Queen Beyoncé. The Wembley Stadium has a unique stage setup where you’re surrounded by the audience–I definitely want to experience that.

How would you describe the music that you create? Can you share your creative process?

I would describe my music as highly eclectic, I draw inspiration from a wide array of musical genres from Gospel to Funk. A vast range of music influences my creative process, but it is my inner emotions that truly fuel my artistic expression. I channel these emotions into my music, infusing it with raw authenticity and sincerity. I also have an appreciation for the art of storytelling, and my music serves as a platform for both retelling women’s narratives, as well as creating relatable stories that resonate with my audience.

What is your favorite song to perform? And what new projects are you working on currently?

One of the songs I absolutely love performing is “Dancing Alone.” It holds a special place in my heart because I had the incredible opportunity to collaborate with the legendary choreographer, Laurieann Gibson, in order to bring this piece to life.

I’m also excited for my upcoming album, “Mr. Wonderful Is Dead,” on the horizon. This project has been a source of excitement for me, as I’ve had the privilege to work closely with the talented Tiara Thomas. You may already be familiar with her, as she made waves with her feature and co-writing on WALE’s hit single “BAD.” Tiara Thomas has also collaborated with other top R&B artists like HER, Mary J. Blige, and John Legend.

Together, we’ve created some remarkable music for “Mr. Wonderful Is Dead,” and I can’t wait to share it with the world. I feel like this album really captured my creative vision.

What would you be doing right now, if it wasn’t for your music career?

If my music career didn’t take center stage, I can envision myself exploring the world by traveling more for pleasure. As an artist, it can be challenging to fully appreciate the incredible places we visit, often caught in a whirlwind of planes, press runs, and performances, before swiftly moving on to the next destination. So, I would relish the opportunity to immerse myself in different cultures, savoring the unique experiences each destination has to offer.

In terms of a different career path, I believe I would have been a lawyer. I’ve always possessed a knack for winning any argument, and it’s a skill I hold dear.

If you could change anything about the music industry, what would it be?

If I had the power to change anything within the industry, I would want to see more gender diversity and inclusivity, specifically by increasing the presence of women in various roles beyond being artists. I feel it’s essential to create more opportunities and support systems for women to grow in the music business. I’d love to see more women in roles such as sound engineers, road managers, DJs, producers, and other key positions. Seeing more women in these roles could also inspire future generations of female professionals to pursue their passions in music without limitations.

Kayra Raecke is a proud brown queer Los Angeles-born neurodivergent with a predilection for syntax, mild cat obsession, and a collection of odd hobbies.

Frances Handy (aka Franie M) is a music marketing and public relations specialist from Staten Island, New York. Music has always been a major influence since interning at Roc Nation, where she assisted on numerous artist marketing projects, brand activations, and PR campaigns. After achieving her BA in Business and Marketing Communication at Berkeley College, she founded public relation and artist branding agency, CGM Publicity.