Ann Nesby | Interview (2002)

Aries (T M H): How did you end up in Atlanta? I know you lived here in Minneapolis & your kids still reside here.
Ann Nesby: I was in Atlanta visiting my husbands sister, doing a promotion for a Christmas special for a pay-per-view Christmas show. We stayed through new years & we were out on her deck grilling new years eve with shorts on. That is how I ended up here. After that moment I was like I am here for good. That August we were here signing the papers for our home. I've been here four years this past February.

Aries (T M H): How is it that you ended up recording the album in so many locations all over the world?
Ann Nesby: Actually working with the different producers is how it came about. Such a diverse group of producers. I began with Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, I wanted the Sounds of Blackness to be apart of it, they are my root. Big Jim also, who was apart of Flyte Tyme/Perspective at the time. I was doing a play entitled "I Know I've Been Changed." When I was recording the title cut with Rev. Al Green we were in Philadelphia. I'm friends with Gamble & Huff & friends with Diana Williams who got us into the studio. While we were out on the road, the Rev. Al Green decided to come to Philadelphia to record the project. That was great history as well, to be able to record that music at Philly International where all that music and rich history came from. To have the legendary Al Green on the song was a blessing.

Aries (T M H): What do you enjoy doing when you're not singing?
Ann Nesby: Cooking, Family, Church, just doing special things with other people. Networking with young people. Any opportunity to sit and talk. Mentoring as well.

Aries (T M H) : My favorite track from the new album is "I Can't Get Over You", because of your voice change.
Ann Nesby: Critics love that one as well because of the tone of my voice. I'm telling a story and it's a different passion when I'm telling it. That's what I wanted the listeners to get

Aries (T M H) : What is your favorite track from the new CD
Ann Nesby: The title track with Al. Al being someone who was able to sing gospel & folk. I'm one of his #1 fans. To work with him and to be thrilled by him and his music was incredible.

Aries (T M H): Aries (T M H): When do you plan to tour?
Ann Nesby: It won't be a traditional tour, we're setting up a play because of my love for the theater. While I'm doing my dates Al will come in & do his vocals. When Al goes out, I'll come in & do my vocals. I'm also working with Al on a collab for a project. He did a song for me and I did one with him.

Aries (T M H): Do you prefer ballads or dance tracks?
Ann Nesby: I don't prefer one or the other. I have love for all African American music. Coming from the Sounds (of blackness) I try not to limit what I write & listen to. I write from personal experiences. I try to write from an inspirational point of view.

Aries (T M H): Who do you listen to that your fans would be shocked to know?
Ann Nesby: Because of my diversity & love for music, I don't think they will be surprised by anyone of them. Well maybe DMX, people think because of the age you can't feel it. DMX has a good message, I can draw from that. My daddy use to say you can learn from anybody.

Aries (T M H): What would you like to pass along to your fans?
Ann Nesby: My message has always been put God first. Work hard as you can, hold on to your dreams. God has a plan for your life. Don't get frustrated because if you trust God everything will work out.