What is your name? 
I go by Tameko Star now, the name my mother initially gave me. 

What is your genre of music? 
I perform dance music, but I also sing Pop, R & B & Jazz!

Give us a little bio about you for those who are new to your music.
 I first came on the scene in the 90s and landed a deal with Undiscovered Recordings/MCA Records (now Universal Music Group) where I became the Eurodance artist known as Livin’ Joy. I subsequently wrote, recorded, and performed Top 10 global dance hits “Don’t Stop Movin’,” “Follow the Rules,” & “Where Can I Find Love.” 

What made you go into music?
 I have a musical family, so I naturally gravitated toward music and the arts. When I was a little girl, I got my first confirmation that I had something unique. I saw that my gift made people feel joy, and I knew it was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. 

Already in the scene and stamping your name firm in the 90s, tell us more about how it started for you and what you will be doing different now?
It began with a dream and then me working on my dream. I studied and honed my craft by participating in any and everything that involved a stage. My determination and drive ultimately landed me my first record deal and then a 2nd opportunity for me to step in as Livin’ Joy. I love what I do and will probably do this music, entertainment, and performing arts ‘thing’ for the rest of my life!

Are you a signed?
No, not yet. I am manifesting the right opportunity, a deal that will allow me creative freedom, and a label that respects and believes in me. Until then, I am embracing my independence. 

You released your new single ‘Something Beautiful’, tell us more about the single and the meaning behind the song.
This song was my pandemic baby, born out of a need to uplift our spirits during such a crazy and uncertain time. I wanted people to feel better mentally and emotionally, if only for 3.59 seconds. The lyrics beckon us to leave our troubles behind and vacation to a place where we are free to believe in love again. 

Describe the track in two words.
Cosmic Bliss

What was the writing and recording process like?
I listened to the music first. For me, the music always dictates what the song should be about; then the vocal melody started speaking to me, and then the words just started flowing. As far as recording, I believe in being efficient and productive, so I knew how and what I wanted to record first when I hit the booth. Recording ‘Something Beautiful’ was pure joy! It had been forever since I’d been in the studio. It felt like coming home to a thousand warm hugs! 

Will we see a music video for ‘Something Beautiful’, and if so what can we expect from the creative process like? 
Yes, it’s already out on YouTube:

 Coming up with the treatment for this video was easy. Since I referenced “Jupiter’ in the hook, the overall video had to have a galactic space backdrop. The concept is about inviting people to join me on my spaceship to escape the problems of this world. It’s about fleeing to a place where there’s freedom, love, and joy!

We can also expect even more new music from you I heard an EP, can you tell us more about what we can expect from that and when we will get to hear or a teaser of it.
 Ooooh so my EP is in the works! Fans can expect to hear a combination of the new Tameko Star mixed a little bit of Livin’ Joy nostalgia. So far, It’s an eclectic mix of dance, pop & soul.

Can you tell us about your any new tour plans you have and a possible date for fans to mark their calendars. 
My first show will be on May 28th at Upton House Concerts. When I say, this is going to be epic!! I have not performed in England in over a decade, partly because there has been another woman booking shows as me and singing over my voice on stage. She has hijacked my 90s look and stolen the logo from my Livin’ Joy album, which she displays on a screen behind her while she performs. It has been devastating to deal with this situation over the years. My fans (#Livinloyals) and I have been outraged! But on a positive note, I look forward to performing on stage and singing my own hits again! 

If you have any live shows let us know where we can find them to buy tickets below. 
Show dates and ticket info will soon be posted on my website: www.TamekoStar.com very soon! You can subscribe to my mailing lists for news and updates as well. 

You also give back to the performing arts with your very own school, tell us more about how and why that came about. 
I’ve taught music, dance, and theatre since I was a little girl, first with my dolls and stuffed animals, then to the kids in my neighborhood. I would gather everyone at the picnic table to have “Class,” and then we would practice what I taught and put on shows for our family and friends. My company, Star House Entertainers, was created so that I could continue this part of my dream. As once an aspiring artist myself, I understand what it’s like to have a dream, and I know what it takes to make it in this industry. I find pleasure in developing and helping young people find themselves artistically. We provide training in all areas of the arts! We also produce shows, musicals, and plays to give our clients a platform to showcase what they have learned with us. They grow leaps and bounds this way. Many of our students have gone on to star on Broadway, in Blockbuster films, on prime-time television shows, and land recording contracts. 

How can people support it or get involved? 
We offer scholarships to young people who desire to train with us but cannot afford to do so. Donations go towards classes, private lessons, transportation, production fees, and costumes. People can donate by clicking ‘Donate’ via the “More” Tab. on www.StarHouseEnt.com. We appreciate any amount, no matter how big or small. Your contribution is greatly appreciated.

Drop all the links for us to follow. 
Of course, here you go!
IG: @TamekoStar & @Livinjoyofficial
Facebook: Livin Joy Official
TikTok: Livinjoyofficial

What else can we expect in early 2023?
 Look for EP teasers on my socials and posts documenting the process. 

What quote or saying do you always stick by?
 “Don’t Stop Movin'” baby! The difference between people who fulfil their dreams and those who don’t is those who gave up and those who kept it going.

When you are at a gig, what are 5 things you cannot forget?
 My prayers, my blessings, my voice, my confidence, my soul, and last but not least, my God!

Do you have social media accounts so your fans can follow you? 
Yes I do! Here you go!
IG: @TamekoStar & @Livinjoyofficial
Facebook: Livin Joy Official
TikTok: Livinjoyofficial