Interview with Debbe Cole

What are you working on today with Gomi?

We’re working on a label-made song today. I’m going to be recording backing vocals for Don Philip’s “It’s a Good Thing”. He’s got a great voice.

How did you meet Gomi?

I first met Gomi years ago. We did some work together but unfortunately, we lost touch. However, about a year and a half ago, we became Facebook friends and got back to collaborating. This time, we want to build a strong catalog and keep going. Nowadays, we talk and work together every time anyone has an idea.

Tell us a little about your new song, “Wright on X”.

We’re very excited about the new release with Gomi and Rasjek. The “W” in “Wright” comes from the word, “Write”, and it represents our writing of the song together. The “X” can be understood as “Time”, as X conveys a time table. In summary, “Wright on X” can also be “Right on Time”.  

Tell us about your journey as a musician.

My first real tour was with Roy Ayers. I was 19 and scared to death. I wish I can get him to do a duet. He sings so well but he doesn’t think so. Every time he was outfit-perfect and pitch-perfect. He was a great showman.

My second gig was with Millie Jackson, which was a bit of a strange jump. I learned that “bitch” was an affectionate term. Millie sounded so much like Gladys Knight singing, that she spiced up her persona by cursing like a sailor. She said everything everybody else wanted to say. She also had this thing: before “phat” became popularly used, she would use “phuck”.

I also toured with D’Angelo. It was supposed to be just a tour with no recording but unbeknownst to me, it was recorded and turned into an album. It was called “Live at the Jazz Café” in England. So yeah - I’ve had a pretty diverse touring experience.

Any exciting plans for the future? What’s next for you?

We’re working on our second single entitled “Don’t give up”. It’s a motivational, “get your butt in gear” sort of thing. If you’ve been through something, don’t let it keep you and move on.  

Do you have any hobbies?

Therapeutically, I take care of a backyard that my family has neglected for long time. It’s enormous! Nobody had barbeques or any sort of event on it. I’ve been also utilizing this as kind of a workout. So, the backyard’s my obsession for the time being.

Maybe in the future I can invite everyone over!

Any words for Gomination fans?

I’m very happy to be on the Gomination team. Just the diversity, beauty and uniqueness of the individuals on the label make it a great place to be!

Check out her discography at Discogs!