Q is one of those artists that exudes personality. From her trademark curls to her sensual voice, Q is unforgettable. Q’s talent goes far beyond just her voice. She is a marketing assistant, model, journalist, researcher for The Arka Initiative, and a co-owner of a bed and breakfast.
Performing musically since 2017, this March sees Q launch her first-ever EP. Titled Hysteria, the EP is a retrospective of Q’s journey over the last few years and will also see the release of her first music video, Took it to the River.
The Morning Brunch caught up with Q for a quick chat on Took it to the River and Hysteria for a bit of insight into what it’s all about.
Tell us about Took it to the River as a song. What’s it about? What inspired it?
In 2017, I was scrolling through Soundcloud searching for some beats to write to and I came across one that was so simple but very smooth and sensual. I instantly felt like I could write to it and that’s how Took it to the River came to be. I try to be as honest as possible when it comes to writing songs and at the time I was sorting through the maze of emotions that comes with being in a “friends with benefits” situation.
This song deals with duality – how do you assert control when you feel like you’re losing it? How do you maintain boundaries when you’re feeling vulnerable? With the help of Dinuka Jayasooriya, its producer, Took it to the River has turned into something I’m so proud of.
What’s the video concept like?
Back in November 2020, I approached my brother, Rehan Mudannayake (an accomplished film director, writer, and actor), about directing a video for this song. I really wanted to play with juxtaposing elements since the entire song deals with duality and balance, so it translated into the locations we chose, the costumes I wore, etc.
I was fortunate to work with a range of talented artists who made up the crew, each one bringing their expertise and A-game to the table. We shot the video over an 18-hour stretch and across four locations. It was stressful and hectic, but I could not be happier with how it turned out.
Is it like your other music and music videos?
Yes and no. This is actually the first music video I’ve ever done and I love that I’ve gone all out for my first one. Music wise, I’ve always been interested in R&B (rhythm and blues), and this song (which I would put in the alternative R&B category) is just another branch of it.
What’s exciting you most about it?
I think the fact that it’s quite different makes me excited for everyone to see it. I feel the best music videos provide a holistic experience for the viewer. With Took it to the River, I’ve tried to combine the best of music, fashion, cinematography, choreography, and art direction to produce something that’s quite unique and out of the box. It’ll be out on YouTube on 12 March.
Is Took It to the River part of your upcoming EP or a standalone piece?
It’s the lead single off my debut EP, Hysteria.
Tell us about your EP Hysteria. Is it your first release?
Yes, it is my first release. Hysteria is basically a time capsule for the experiences I’ve had over the past few years: Navigating my way through things like independence, empowerment, hook-ups, and self-doubt.
It’s a very introspective EP that I initially wrote for myself but subsequently turned into a sort of tribute to women, especially brown women, who don’t really see themselves represented in mainstream media. We’re more complex and nuanced than we are given credit for and I really wanted this to be the focal point of the EP.
Q’s first-ever music video “Took it to the River” will be released on 12 March on YouTube.
