The Quad

Issue date: 4/7/08 Section: Entertainment

Selina Carrera might appear to be your average student majoring in communications with a minor in music. However, what many do not know is that, juxtaposed with her academic career here at West Chester University, Carrera is actively pursuing a successful career in hip-hop music. In fact, she was just signed to a record deal with Columbia Records in March. The Quad recently had the opportunity to sit down with Selina and talk to her about her music, her influences and what she foresees in her artistic future.

Carrera's interest in music began at a very early age; she had been singing since she was four. She has actually been writing songs since she was in the sixth grade, and has six notebooks filled cover to cover with her work. Her musical influence also stems from her family. "I come from a musical background," she said. "My dad was a Latin percussionist. He and my mom won Underground Dance Battle Awards in Philly and New York City."

When asked about her musical inspirations, Carrera responded, "I would say it's a fusion between Latin jazz and hip hop. It's basically positive, good innovative music and just to have fun with music without treating negative messages to our youth and community."

As far as her new record deal is concerned, Carrera claims she got it from working at Adidas and networking with music promoters.

"When I was at work , there was a concert going on down the street," Carrera said. "I talked to a couple of promoters, and they introduced me to different people from Momma's boy's productions, James Poyser, Jive, and Chris Schwartz. (Schwartz) basically dug my style. He's CEO of Rough Nation: they discovered the Fugees, Lauren Hill, Nas, Cypris Hill, Kris Kros; Basically he liked me a lot and went as far as wanting to manage me. No more than two weeks later, I got signed."

Carrera's tracks were professionally mastered by Grammy-award winning Phil Niccolo and produced by Rick Rube.

"Right now we're still working on the paperwork, but they're going to give me an advance to make the music. I'm gonna do a whole album. I'm working with different producers and song writers to get the right niche and the right song," Carrera said.

"As soon as we have enough that the label passes on, then we can start distributing," Carerra said. "They're going to distribute in the United States. Canada, and Europe. They're gonna work with me and develop me into an artist, physical training and what to say [for interviews]."

Continued...

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