Get inspired by… Little Brown Girl

Little Brown Girl is an inspiring black woman. She made a strong impression last month at the Cobden Club, near Ladbroke Grove, London. Many other artists performed that night but her voice were got the attention. Also, her lyrics perfectly related to a modern black woman’s life. But who’s hidden behind this enigmatic name?

Little Brown Girl is Alena Herel, a young and talented artist from London, niece of BBC DJ Ronnie Herel. Alena has been performing for a decade or so at Church, in professional sessions and open mic sets. Here, she answers our questions on her music, relationships, tv shows and of course, her hair journey.


How would you describe your music?
I tend to fuse soul, gospel, alternative and electro-jazz influences in equal measure and my style mixes acoustic ballads with neo-soul infused songs.

You come from a family of musicians but how did it all start for you? When did you discover your own voice and style?
I wouldn't say that I come from a family of musicians as my parents are not musical, however, my grandfather is a retired musician (trumpeter and guitarist in equal measure).

In terms of performance, it all began when I had to produce a 30 minute performance for my music degree 3 years ago.

With the help of my ever faithful, ever loyal music director MellowK, I began to write more and focus my material. My style and voice are still growing, developing and changing with me.

The experiences that mould and shape me as a person also shape me in terms of my style, mood and material.

One of your songs describes incredibly well the feelings one can have at the end of a relationship. This topic also inspired Common and Kerri Washington in I Want You (check my post on this) Why are relationships so inspiring for artists?
Probably because most of us experience being in a relationship at some point in our adult lives. Having loved and lost is a subject matter that most people can relate to. The audience can understand the feelings of the 'positive and negative' side of love that is portrayed or offered through a song. I guess it's something that's real to a lot of people.

What's next for you?
Hopefully, lots more performances! Watch my myspace page for updates: http://www.myspace.com/thelittlebrowngirl. I'm in the process of recording my material... at the moment it's title is Work in Progress!!!!!!!!!!!!

Who did you support at the X Factor final? JLS or Alexandra Burke?
Alex! She was fab!

Have you ever relaxed your hair? Why?
Yes, when I went to the States many moons ago, I was young and it seemed like a brilliant idea! It was great while I was there but when I returned (from my 4 week holiday) and relaxed it several weeks later... I stayed with the long flowing hair look for quite a while but 3 years ago I chopped it all off and decided to stick with my own curls!

Who's the most inspiring black woman for you?
My mumma

Where were you when Barack Obama won the US elections last November?
In bed, asleep... but glad to wake up to the fact he had suceeded!

Are you more Sade or Amel Larrieux?
Amel Larrieux

Facebook or Myspace?
Myspace

Grey's Anatomy or Gossip Girl?
If the options were Ally McBeal or Sex and the City, then I'd be stuck!