Celebrated as a musical force, Avery Sunshine is renowned for her soul-stirring vocals, unyielding authenticity, and resolute commitment to empowerment. Recently gracing the stage at the renowned Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre, she didn’t merely present her music; she radiated souls and gifted the world a poignant anthem for the celebration of Black identity. Michigan Chronicle got a chance to catch up with her about new music, exciting new roles, and infusing her lineage into cosmetics.
More than just an entertainer, Avery Sunshine is a storyteller, a trailblazer, and a symbol of resilience. The Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre holds a special place in her heart, not just because of its musical legacy, but because she’s been part of its journey since the days it was known as Chene Park. This transition from Chene Park to the Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre marks a significant milestone for her, reflecting her growth and connection to the city.
“I was playing at the Aretha when it was Chene Park,” she recalled. “To be able to say that I’ve been a part of both is a really big deal for me. Its an honor. Anytime that I can come to Detroit to play it’s a big deal for me to be here. When I come, I like to go nuts and bring the unadulterated truth. Of course, there is always sunshine, and I always have a good time.”
An unwavering commitment to her musical style, deeply rooted in R&B, jazz, and gospel influences, has been pivotal in her longevity in the industry. Her ability to bring raw feelings and topics hasensured her continued presence in the playlists of both new and long-standing admirers.
Her music isn’t just about creating catchy tunes; it’s about connecting with her audience on a profound level. Through her songs, she talks about life experiences that many can relate to – from relationships and family dynamics to personal struggles and triumphs. Her authenticity allows listeners to feel seen and understood, fostering a lasting bond between artist and fan forever.
She shares, “I’ve been true to myself. I think that is the case with anybody that has been able to stay, dare I say, relevant. We can do this thing in front of three people or 30,000 people, by being exactly who we are. That’s when I feel the connection more with people. By talking about my life and my reality, I think has been the thing that keeps me in a space where people can identify with me. I am a middle aged, black, fluffy, married, mom, auntie, daughter, businesswoman, and HBCU grad. I am just like everybody else.”
Her latest single, “Blackity Black,” is a bold anthem that celebrates Black identity unapologetically. It’s a response to the colorblind rhetoric and a call to embrace and celebrate one’s own heritage. “We cannot be colorblind,” she said acknowledging the importance of acknowledging and celebrating the rich diversity that defines us. The song is a manifestation of Avery Sunshine’s belief that her Blackness is a source of strength and pride – a sentiment she hopes to instill in others as well.
Beyond the stage, Avery Sunshine has been making waves with her entrepreneurial spirit. She’s the force behind Lou Mac Beauty, a cosmetics company that’s about more than just makeup. It’s a celebration of heritage and a platform for women of color to embrace their unique beauty. Inspired by her great-grandmother, Lou Mac, Avery Sunshine aims to challenge conventional beauty standards and encourage women to “shine, show off those very things that make us who we are.” With a range of lipsticks representing an array of vibrant shades, the brand is a testament to her pride in her lineage and her dedication to empowering others.
“I saw a picture of my great grandmother holding a white baby. All I could think about was how this black woman with no makeup is being a nursemaid to a white family while my grandmother was nowhere in any of those photos. Where was she? What was she doing? My great grandmother took care of other people so she could take care of her child. This woman wasn’t thinking about no lipstick. She was proud of those full lips. Proud of those full hips. Proud of who she was.”
Seeing her great grandmother in such a raw manner sparked something in her, changing her perspective forever.
“I really didn’t want to wear bright lipstick at all because I felt like my lips were too big. I did not love my features. When I saw the picture of my great grandmother, unafraid, unashamed I said ‘how dare I be ashamed and afraid to show off these lips whom I inherited from this amazing, resilient black woman. So I curated a line of lipsticks, of all colors, to shine and remind us to show off those things that so many times we’ve been ashamed of. I just want to change that narrative. I want us to be reminded to shine.”
Her latest single, “Blackity Black,” is a bold anthem that celebrates Black identity unapologetically. It’s a response to the colorblind rhetoric and a call to embrace and celebrate one’s own heritage. “We cannot be colorblind,” she proclaims in the song, acknowledging the importance of acknowledging and celebrating the rich diversity that defines us. The song is a manifestation of [Artist’s Name]’s belief that her Blackness is a source of strength and pride – a sentiment she hopes to instill in others as well.
As Avery Sunshine takes on new roles, such as her recent election as the chapter governor for the Atlanta chapter of the Recording Academy (the organization behind the Grammy Awards), she’s once again advocating for change and inclusivity within the music industry. Her involvement in initiatives like music education, community outreach, and artist representation highlights her commitment to making a lasting impact beyond the stage.
“This is certainly Beginning the conversation about some change. Including different ideas and even understanding what the process is so I can educate the folks around me and understand how it really, really works. Starting the conversations about these things so we can really affect some change and that’s what I’m really excited about.”
In a world that’s constantly evolving, Avery Sunshine remains a consistent source of inspiration, empowerment, and unapologetic self-expression. Her music, her cosmetics line, and her advocacy work all come together to create a holistic picture of a woman who knows her worth, embraces her identity, and uses her platform to uplift others. Because we all deserve a little sunshine.
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