
After many successful seasons of “Real Housewives of Atlanta,” Bravo decided to let Kandi Burruss take things into her own hands with her new spin-off, “The Kandi Factory.” Viewers can expect to see Kandi in her element on the show as she gives two contestants the opportunity of a lifetime: a chance to become the next big rising star.
We recently had a chance to catch up with the busy RHOA star, business woman, singer, and songwriter. She chatted about her business ventures, a few details about her and Todd’s upcoming wedding plans, and gave us the scoop on all things Kandi.
On what we can expect from the Kandi Factory:
On the show, we are looking for contestants that have three factors a hot record, a great image, and a great stage presence and performance. We were looking for all different levels of talent. We wanted both singers, and rappers. My team of industry experts that I personally work with will work with the contestants, to show exactly what we can do with that person and their skill level. In the end we will see if they really have what it takes to be a star.”
On what we can expect from the contestants:
Some of them already had a musical background and were looking for a record deal for years and others did not have a background in music before coming to the Kandi Factory. The thing that cracks me up, I remember one gentleman told us he was a choreographer, but when it was time to dance he didn’t show up or take direction well. Sometimes people who don’t have a musical background are more open and willing to take direction.”
On if the winners will get to be on her record label:
Not everyone, but I will continue to work with some of the contestants. The two winning contestants will get to release a single but others I would love to keep working with.”
On any surprises or spoilers she can tell us about the Kandi Factory:
Ruben Studdard came by the show and gave great advice. Also expect appearances from some of my friends Cynthia Bailey, Rasheeda, Stevie J. and others.
There were a lot of happy moments. One of the most fulfilling moments was working with a talented team. Of course while the cameras were around people would show out on TV. Some of the contestants really disappointed and didn’t deliver like I thought they would and others really amazed me. There were a lot of surprises while filming the show because you never know what you will get. Someone will give u something on audition tape, and are totally different in person.”
Kandi’s advice to anyone trying to break into the industry:
Well I will say it’s important to build up energy and presence. When people walk in look like a star, and carry themselves in a certain way, you see an artist. Now, I do my own Internet show every week for the past three years. If you are an actor, do your own show to keep your face out there. Why should someone be willing to spend money on you, if you don’t put money into yourself or into your career? As for up and coming artist, you need to perform everywhere. If I meet you on the street and you say you can sing and I say sing you need to take advantage of the opportunity and sing right then and there. Most people think you need money or financial backing to start. But, We did Kandi Koated Nights for free for three years. I started in my kitchen on a web camera. If it’s really something you love, then you have to be willing to do it for free the money will come later.”
On the music industry:
In music, everyone thinks they will get rich off their first song or one single. Unless you are a writer, most labels own the masters and the writers own the other rights. So people who write music, get the money. I thought Xscape was going to be rich over night, and that was not true. Going out on the road and touring is where artists get their money. Millions sold doesn’t mean you are rich.”
On if she would leave RHOA to focus on the Kandi Factory:
I would continue to both if the network will allow me to. I did the whole season of RHOA then, went straight into filming my show… I love music so I would want to do both. I enjoy working with the ladies too its cool to be on a show with an ensemble cast. It doesn’t invade my personal life. I like it as long as they want me on the show I will do it and continue to do both shows.”
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