Meet Imani Archer | Singer/Songwriter

We had the good fortune of connecting with Imani Archer and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Imani, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
I am inspired by so so many things. I love all forms of art so I’m constantly inspired when it comes to the stuff I write. Movies have definitely been a huge inspiration in a lot of song ideas for me. Every song starts with some type of imagery/color in my head that I’ve seen in a film or show, and it kind of sets the tone for the vibe and feel of the song in terms of its writing style and production! I’m also very inspired by books! I’ve been writing my own since I was a child so nothing puts me in a more creative mood than reading a good story!
But when it comes to other people, I’d say Rihanna is a huge inspiration for me! Growing up I didn’t see a lot of big pop stars that looked like me. Plus I thought it was the coolest thing in the world that we were both Guyanese haha. I felt like she represented so many little black girls around the world and was just the ultimate cool girl! It was so inspirational seeing someone who was not afraid to take risks in music and fashion dominate the industry.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My name is Imani Archer and I’m a pop singer/songwriter from Los Angeles, CA! I have always been into the arts! I loved to draw and write books when I was a child until I was 7! At that age I heard a Keshia Cole song on the radio and that was it for me haha! From then on I knew music was what I wanted to do! I stared writing real songs around 16 and just kept practicing everyday! The first few songs sucked lmao! But with time I found my writing style and learned how to write stuff that sounded good with my range. I think my music is brutally honest and really makes people feel. I kind of just say whatever comes to mind and sometimes it’s just a little too honest for some people haha. But I think it’s something that really sets me apart because I really want my music to help people feel less alone. Whether it’s about heartbreak, mental health or just feeling like no one understands you, I want someone to listen and be like “Oh my god, she took the words right out out my mouth!”.

My new song Crocodile Tears was written almost two years ago now on my piano when I was dealing with an extremely difficult time in my life and I just had an immediate feeling that it was special and that I had to put it out! I’m so unbelievably proud of this song and the others one I made with my producer Dylan Thomas last year. I really put my heart and soul into it and I can’t wait for people who have been supporting me the last few years to hear it!

Being in a position to make music with such talented creatives is something I don’t take for granted even though it’s had so many challenges. There are times where this thing can be really difficult and discouraging. I get through it by surrounding myself with other creatives who have been or are going through the same thing! One thing I’ve really learned throughout all of this is you literally have to keep going, even when you keep getting told no, or when it looks like it’s not going to work out! Those are the moments the universe is setting up the perfect path for you to get to where you’re supposed to be!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Well, first place I would HAVE to take them is to Papi’s Tacos. Literally the best birria tacos I’ve had in LA. Another really good place I love to eat when I’m around the area is Café Habana in Malibu. For real, everything I’ve tried there is delicious and I love the atmosphere of the place.

To just walk around/shop/hangout, I would probably take them to Melrose to be honest. So many dope clothing shops and great food. And the best part…I just love the energy and the people! I’ve made so many cool connections and friends over there!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My Mom, my bf and my best friend Dempsey!Without their constant love & support, I would be nowhere! Anytime I need them, whether it’s something to do with my music or just personal stuff they’re always there to catch me when I fall! Couldn’t be more grateful.

Instagram: @imaniarcher

Youtube: Imani Archer

Image Credits
Hannah De Vries
Dempsey Tonks