Cocktails With… Tamia
R&B soulster Tamia, wife of Phoenix Suns basketball star Grant Hill and one-third of The Queen Project — a collaborative effort comprising herself, Debra Cox and Kelly Price — which is billed for this week’s Jamaica Jazz Festival, shares a few of her favourite things.
What’s your favourite cocktail?
I love Margaritas.
What kind of day are you having?
Hectic and rainy.
Socialite or homebody?
Homebody.
Is this your first time in Jamaica?
Performing, yes, because the last time I was there — three or four years ago — the show got rained out.
What are your essential style items for this trip?
You know, sunglasses, bathing suit, my workout clothes… and a great pair of sandals, anything that sparkles. I love that beach look.
Flats or stilettos?
Stilettos! I especially love Yves Saint-Laurent and Louboutins, although those only work for the show. Debra and I have a running joke to see who can kick off their shoes faster as soon as the curtains close.
How would you describe yourself?
Reserved until I get to know you
What’s your style?
Classic
What’s in your handbag/clutch?
Lip balm, a healthy snack bar and my wallet.
Who does your hair?
It depends on what city I’m in… but the girls and I have developed a knack for styling our own hair and putting on make-up because it’s been done to us so many times. It’s a kind of watch and learn thing.
Who does your nails?
Depends on what city I’m in.
What can we expect from you style-wise on stage?
Big hair… and I might even show some skin.
What perfume are you currently spraying?
Child, it’s a boutique fragrance, but I live in hot weather so I usually just use a scented lotion like Amazing Grace body lotion.
TV or a good book?
TV
What’s the best thing about performing?
Seeing how you and the music affect people.
What can Jamaicans expect from The Queen Project?
It’s going to be a lot of fun, we’ll be singing all our hits and we’re all very talented singers who are not afraid of a microphone.
What’s your obsession?
Not to be around obsessive people.
What’s in your car stereo?
The kids figure that out, I can’t fight them for the stereo and drive.
What’s your idea of the perfect man?
Grant — my husband.
What turns you off?
Excessive cursing, sometimes people need to get it, but…
What’s your best character trait?
Loyalty.
What’s your worst?
I tend to be a little forgetful.
What are your current projects?
The Queen Project, my new solo album that is still untitled and a live album, Tamia Live in DC.
You’ve been battling with multiple sclerosis, how has it been?
I’ve been doing very well…it has taught me a lesson: To prioritise my life. I’m really very busy, but I have managed to balance my time and take care of me.
And 10 years from now?
An Oscar, A Tony Award and a Grammy… I better get to work.