Fans can expect more music and even more dancing! I want to be an inspiration to other young people out there to follow their dreams and never give up. I kicked off this era by Leveling Up! I starting my own record label, Beauty Marks Entertainment, and now own my masters after 15 years in the business. I am so fortunate to have been given this platform and I want it to stand for something in the long-run. In your own words, what era of your career would you describe us as in now and what can fans expect to see more of?Ĭiara: This era of my career is all about spreading love and inspiration.

It’s a new decade, and your fans always like to describe the different “eras” of your career. Each girl brings a unique vibe to the song and it was cool to showcase the many talents of actresses like Lupita (aka Troublemaker) and LaLa. When she played it for me I immediately knew I wanted to get my ‘girl gang’ together and celebrate the diverse beauty that makes up the tapestry of women of colour. LaLa, City Girls, Ester Dean and Lupita Nyong’o all feature on your latest track ‘Melanin”, can you explain why it was important for you to bring together these artists for the project as opposed to releasing the song without features?Ĭiara: Melanin was written and produced by my friend Ester Dean. Top & Coat: House Of Holland Shoes: Giuseppe Sunglasses: Emporio Armani Earrings: Jennifer Fisher Happily married and soon to be welcoming a new baby into the family, I caught up with Ciara to find out more about her musical journey, motherhood and plans for the future. However through it all, Ciara’s determination and resilience has seen her emerge as a cultural icon today – an inspiration to young artists the globe over and proof that a strong work ethic and an even stronger belief in self, can pull you through the worst of times. Ciara’s rise to the top hasn’t been without its hardships – like every artist in the game as long as her, Ciàra has been met with setbacks, hardships and proverbial crosses to bear on her path to success. Lupita Nyong’o, Ester Dean, City Girls and La La’ being a much-needed celebratory ode to black beauty. While music trends and tastes have evolved throughout the years, as has Ciara’s artistry with latest single ‘Melanin ft. Words: Miles Holder It’s now been over fifteen years since Ciara’s debut album Goodies topped the Billboard Hot 100 and in that time Ciara’s career and cultural impact has gone from strength to strength.

Ciara album covers