Conversations with Adrienne J. Woods

Today we’d like to introduce you to Adrienne J. Woods.

Hi Adrienne J., thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I am originally from College Park, GA and I have been in Atlanta all of my life. I am a graduate of Frederick Douglass High School. I’ve always been into music and the arts for as long as I can remember.

Like many other singers, I got my start in the church. At just five years old, I was leading songs with the adult choir at my church and often put in programs to sing at churches around the city.

My parents insisted that my sisters and I all learn classical piano as well as other instruments so my ear was trained very early as both a musician and a singer. On the way to my piano lessons, my father would play Nat King Cole and Natalie Cole’s records on repeat. I fell in love with music that was older than me.

As a high schooler, my band director, Mr. Vanable Moody noticed that I could sing during a jazz band rehearsal. I became the first student vocalist for the Douglass High Jazz Band. He also accompanied me to my first gigs at JR Crickets on Cascade Rd where I sang jazz standards on Sunday afternoons.

I have so many stories to tell around music that start very early in my life. This journey to “here” has been very sweet.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road to becoming is never smooth, I think. It has some smooth parts where things work out and opportunity abounds, but there are also the potholes of self doubt, financial obstacles, and anything else that gets in the way temporarily.

One of the most notable struggles that I have, and am sure other artists experience, is the constant comparison to others and running into those who want to pimp your gift, so to speak. I heard someone say once that “comparison is the thief of joy”. No truer words have been spoken. It has been and sometimes still is a constant work to remind myself that I am uniquely me in every way. Anyone can sing, but no one else can sing it the way that God has given me to sing it.

All in all, the journey, while not consistently smooth, has been enjoyable and filled with teachable moments and victories.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a multi-genre singer and songwriter. I love improv and on the spot creativity even while performing live. I feel that it’s what I do best. I have a natural knack for singing and interpreting almost any genre of music for any setting. Music is all about testing your limits and exploring every creative opportunity. I’m proud of the confident singer that I’ve become and that I no longer run from taking musical risks.

I’ve had the incredible blessing and opportunities to sing behind some of the greatest artists of our time, such as Michael McDonald, Mariah Carey and most recently, Mary Mary. I’m beyond honored to have been able to provide support vocals and share the stage with these giants.

Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
I’ve learned the beauty and value of self-acceptance in this journey to becoming. If you don’t believe in what you have and what you give, no one else will. You are your greatest asset.

Contact Info:

• Email: Bookajsings@gmail.com
• Website: www.adriennejwoods.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/adriennejwoods
• Facebook: Fb.me/theadriennejwoods

Image Credits
Shocphoto LLC Shootworks