Fifth Harmony member NORMANI KORDEI discusses her favorite music, Fifth Harmony sophmore album, female empowerment, the importance of confidence, and her exciting career.
Being in a musical group requires that each person in the group kind of steps back at times, in order to let the group shine as a whole, rather than individually. How has this shaped your experience in the music industry?Anything that you do involving other people is a sacrifice. You have to realize that not only will you be affected in the process, but so will they. Not only will your opinion be valid, but so will theirs. I’d say that it’s been an adjustment for the five of us, which is natural because we all came into this industry with the intentions of being solo artists. Because it’s worked out differently and we have this huge platform, we all have to step back and remember how we got to this place. It was with each other. Each of our individual successes has been based on not just what we have done as individuals, but what the other four individuals have contributed. Yes, we are all individually the reason for our success, but we made it because of Fifth Harmony and Fifth Harmony consists of five [members], not one.
It’s as simple as that. I step back and listen to the others and also allow
space for everyone to have a moment. It’s extremely important. Their talent is just as important as mine, and I embrace it and appreciate it. There’s no time to get caught up in just me. Musically, I committed to four other people, and I have an obligation to them. The way I see it, my blood, sweat, and tears are not just for me; it’s for Fifth Harmony as well. We have been blessed. Most groups have lead singers, but we don’t. Each and every one of us is amazing in our own way. We have five beautiful women who exude talent, and I am blessed and honored to be one of those women. For me, the bottom line is: it’s all about respect and love, and I have both for Fifth Harmony.
What’s your favorite song that you’ve recorded with the group?Although I love the body of work we have done, I would say that my favorite has yet to be released. It takes a lot for me to become attached to a song. If I do, it has to be something that I constantly hear in my head and sing randomly just because it’s that good and catchy. I have a few favorites on this upcoming album, but one song in particular has really grown on me. I can’t say much about this song, but when it’s released, you’ll know. I can’t wait for everyone to hear it.
As you’ve demonstrated with Fifth Harmony, you’re both an incredible singer and dancer. Which was your first passion? How’d you get into each?I asked my family to enroll me in dance classes at the age of 3. My pre-school had an after school program that specialized in dance, so my mom, dad, and grandmother immediately enrolled me. I remember going to school and being excited for the day to end. All I could think about was changing into my ballet slippers, tap shoes, and most importantly, my pink tutu. My first love was dance, and through dance I learned to appreciate different genres of music. My love for music, along with a little push from my parents, led me to singing.
Many of Fifth Harmony’s songs like “BO$$” and “Worth It” boast a confident attitude and encourage women to know their value. Is this a belief you’ve always held, or was it one that developed as you got older?I definitely think that it’s been something I had to grow into. I saw confidence in others but lacked it in myself. I have always been my worst critic, and I’ve overanalyzed everything. I was afraid of trying things, knowing that there was a possibility of me failing. Being fully confident and comfortable with showing others who I truly am is something that I have always wanted. I have grown so much in the past few years and have become fearless, confident, lionhearted, valiant, and powerful in my own right. In this business, you’re constantly under a microscope and always being judged by people who don’t really know you. I’ve learned to disregard what others think and say and simply carry on with being me. I know my heart, and I’m my own best friend. I am surrounded by people who show me that love has no end.I think that it is very important to know that you’re important and to trust yourself. Women should be empowered and wholeheartedly know their worth. We have such a significant role in this story being written.
Have you ever considered pursuing a solo career?Yes, in the future. In the beginning, we all had intentions of pursuing solo careers. I’m still an individual, as well as the others, meaning we have slightly different visions and aspirations. We have a ton of work [to do] and much more to accomplish as Fifth Harmony before that happens.
The article is pretty interesting. While she's happy to be in the group, it gives us an interesting idea of the reality of being part of a girlgroup.source & the rest of the article:
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