Brandee Younger talks with Jerris Madison about working with music industry greats, her life as an acclaimed harpist in New York City and why Stevie Wonder‘s ‘If It’s Magic’ is her favorite song to play while keeping her humble.

Jerris: Full Name: Brandee A. Younger

Jerris: Where do you reside and birthplace?

Brandee Younger: I’m a recent Brooklynite – turned Harlemite. I was born and raised in Hempstead, Long Island.

Jerris: Explain to readers what a Harpista is?

Brandee: Well, a harpist is a person who plays the harp. Add an ‘A’ on the end and it’s technically the Spanish word for a harpist. Harpista is my social media handle.

Jerris: Why did you choose this instrument oppose to let’s say a violin?

Brandee: I’ve always marched to the beat of my own drum and my parents thought it was cool.

Jerris: Who have you worked with professionally?

Brandee: I’ve had the honor and privilege to work with so many artists in classical, jazz and popular music, as well as a ton of private events for pro athletes and actors. I’ve either recorded or performed with artists such as Ravi Coltrane, Jack Dejohnette, John Legend, Lauryn Hill,  Mack Wilds and I’m even playing on a mixtape with Drake and Travis McCoy.

Jerris: Dream collaboration? Why?

Brandee: Maxwell, well… do you really have to ask why?

Jerris: Harps are very heavy. Do you find it challenging to travel with your harps?

Brandee: Absolutely! It must be transported in a large vehicle, with a protective covering. Usually, you’re paying a significant amount for the transport of the instrument.

Jerris: Do you think it’s important to give back through education?

Absolutely! It’s very important to give to the next generation. You can’t take it with you!

Jerris: What’s your favorite song to play on your harp? Why?

Brandee: ‘If It’s Magic’ by Stevie Wonder because it’s one of those songs that makes you question everything and also feel hopeful regardless of circumstance. It’s about spreading the love.

Jerris: What’s involved in hiring you for an event? Is there a checklist?  For private events?

Brandee: It’s important to know if the location is indoors or outdoors, the ground must be flat, no rain and, of course, how large of an area that sound needs to accommodate. For concerts, I have a rider with everything listed that I send to clients ahead of time.

Jerris: Do you have any projects in the works?

Brandee: Yes. Brandee Younger’s composition ‘Dorothy Jeanne’ is featured on Bluenote Records/Revive Music’s upcoming compilation ‘Supreme Sonacy‘. You can listen to the audio on YouTube before the album drops.

Jerris: Where can our reader find more information about you?

Facebook Page: facebook.com/harpista
Websites: www.brandeeyounger.com
Twitter: @harpista
Instagram: @harpista ■

Photographer/Makeup  Jerris Madison for www.jerrismadison.com
Fashion Editor  Raven N. Roberts
Hairstylist  Saniyyah Sahar

Print Crop Top Gown With Long Chiffon Skirt  THEIA
Jewelry/Shoes  Stylist’s Own

Floral Print Dress  Cynthia Rowley
Jewelry  Stylist’s Own