J'Nai Bridges
J'Nai Bridges got into classical singing during her senior year of high school which is, surprisingly, later than most. Though she was on track to becoming a professional athlete, she dropped everything (athletic scholarships and all) to pursue a career in music, an art form that completely mesmerized her. Today, she is a critically acclaimed opera singer with rave reviews in The New Yorker, The New York Times, Oprah News, Variety, and more. Earlier this year she performed when Diane was recognized with the RBG Woman of Leadership Award, so we invited her back to be a DVF Woman and answer some InCharge questions.
J'Nai Bridges got into classical singing during her senior year of high school which is, surprisingly, later than most. Though she was on track to becoming a professional athlete, she dropped everything (athletic scholarships and all) to pursue a career in music, an art form that completely mesmerized her. Today, she is a critically acclaimed opera singer with rave reviews in The New Yorker, The New York Times, Oprah News, Variety, and more. Earlier this year she performed when Diane was recognized with the RBG Woman of Leadership Award, so we invited her back to be a DVF Woman and answer some InCharge questions.
InCharge Q's with J'Nai Bridges
Q: If you could dine with anyone living or dead, who would it be?
A: It is tough to choose one person so I will say two. Oprah Winfrey and Mohammed Ali.
Q: What makes you feel InCharge?
A: I give thanks every day knowing I have a voice that reaches the hearts and souls of people. We have all been put on this earth to say something, and I feel InCharge by brightening someone’s day, challenging one’s thoughts, opening one’s mind, and spreading the love through the gift of song.
“If I see you that way, with love, I must let your grief into my heart, your story into my heart, I must stand up for you when you’re in harm’s way. What happens when we see George Floyd as our brother, or Breonna as a sister, migrant children as our own sons and daughters—what would we risk?”
Q: Do you ever feel like a loser?
A: I never feel like a loser, but I often know I have so much to learn. When I experience a less than ideal moment in my artistry or life, I try to not judge it. Staying curious is essential for growth and I am intentional about not beating myself up for so called mistakes. I am always wanting to improve and learn from even the low moments. I fully give myself permission to feel all my emotions even if it means feeling down, I just don’t stay there.
Q: Favorite record and why?
A: Songs in the Key of Life by Stevie Wonder! My parents raised me on this album, and I am incredibly grateful! Not only is every song a lesson in vocal and instrumental genius, but also many teaching moments and lessons. The first track “Love’s in Need of Love Today” will always be relevant and inspiring for me to do my part in healing our world. I’m most inspired by this album to reach for excellence in my musicianship and everyday walk on this earth. Also, the feel-good groove and cross-genre fusion are unparalleled in my opinion. A masterpiece in every way!
Q: Is there any tradition or ritual that you enjoy?
A: Starting the day off with a prayer of gratitude followed by a nice long body stretch is a ritual that really helps set me up for a positive day.
My family has a tradition of all coming together for the Christmas Holiday and reconnecting through food, dance, song, Kwanzaa celebrations, and giving thanks to God. I most look forward to this time together every year.
To keep up with J'Nai, follow her on IG: @jnaibmezzo.
This idea of summoning ancestors is more accessible than one would think. Valarie channels the energy of her grandfather, a biological ancestor, but she also sits at the feet of Black thinkers like Dr. King, James Baldwin, Audre Lorde, and bell hooks.
This idea of summoning ancestors is more accessible than one would think. Valarie channels the energy of her grandfather, a biological ancestor, but she also sits at the feet of Black thinkers like Dr. King, James Baldwin, Audre Lorde, and bell hooks.
InCharge Q's with J'Nai Bridges
Q: If you could dine with anyone living or dead, who would it be?
A: It is tough to choose one person so I will say two. Oprah Winfrey and Mohammed Ali.
Q: What makes you feel InCharge?
A: I give thanks every day knowing I have a voice that reaches the hearts and souls of people. We have all been put on this earth to say something, and I feel InCharge by brightening someone’s day, challenging one’s thoughts, opening one’s mind, and spreading the love through the gift of song.
Q: Do you ever feel like a loser?
A: I never feel like a loser, but I often know I have so much to learn. When I experience a less than ideal moment in my artistry or life, I try to not judge it. Staying curious is essential for growth and I am intentional about not beating myself up for so called mistakes. I am always wanting to improve and learn from even the low moments. I fully give myself permission to feel all my emotions even if it means feeling down, I just don’t stay there.
Q: Favorite record and why?
A: Songs in the Key of Life by Stevie Wonder! My parents raised me on this album, and I am incredibly grateful! Not only is every song a lesson in vocal and instrumental genius, but also many teaching moments and lessons. The first track “Love’s in Need of Love Today” will always be relevant and inspiring for me to do my part in healing our world. I’m most inspired by this album to reach for excellence in my musicianship and everyday walk on this earth. Also, the feel-good groove and cross-genre fusion are unparalleled in my opinion. A masterpiece in every way!
Q: Is there any tradition or ritual that you enjoy?
A: Starting the day off with a prayer of gratitude followed by a nice long body stretch is a ritual that really helps set me up for a positive day.
My family has a tradition of all coming together for the Christmas Holiday and reconnecting through food, dance, song, Kwanzaa celebrations, and giving thanks to God. I most look forward to this time together every year.
To keep up with J'Nai, follow her on IG: @jnaibmezzo.