Pepper MaShay

Fabulous dance diva Pepper MaShay is probably best known for Billboard charting club hits "Dive in the Pool," "I Got My Pride," and her just-released single, "Does Your Momma Know?" But as makes sense for one of the club world’s most beloved stars, her first foray into music came from a very romantic inspiration: love letters.

"I met this man... and I would take his love letters to me and turn them into songs," says MaShay, who eventually married the writing Romeo. She eventually divorced him, too, but MaShay has a way of turning even heartache into success: the same man who inspired her music career at the start of their relationship also inspired her 2007 #1 Billboard Hot Dance Club Play hit "Lost Yo Mind," which lyrically re-visited their breakup.

Tonight (Friday, Feb. 13), MaShay will swing by Club Cafe on Columbus Ave. to wish a little luck to the gay hotspot’s resident DJ Aga during his birthday party. MaShay will not only perform many of her choice hits, but she’ll mix and mingle with the crowd, and of course, spread the love. Tomorrow, she’ll perform a special Valentine’s Day show at Providence’s Mirabar.

Bay Windows spoke with Ms. MaShay for the lowdown.

So Pepper, as a writer I have to ask - I hear that before you became a singer, you wanted to be a journalist?

Oh yes. I was a military brat living in Missouri, where they have one of the biggest journalism schools. A lot of the recruiters would come to our high school and I was seriously considering going into that field. Then I met this man, who ended up being my husband but is now my ex. ... I used to take his love letters and turn them into songs and play them on the guitar. When one of the other students heard the songs, they said, "Baby, forget about journalism. Become a singer and write your own music because what you’re doing is great!" It changed my life at 18.

Pepper MaShay, fabulous dance diva, plays the guitar?

I’m proud to say as of last week I made my first debut out here in LA, playing the guitar in an acoustic set for the first time in like, 10 to 15 years. It was at the Go Green Expo with the Mamapalooza organization. The response was so great to me. So not only is Pepper MaShay doing dance music, but she’s doing blues-folk. But I do that under the name Sister Jean.

Since you started on guitar, how did you wind up moving towards dance music?

You know baby, I started as a background singer doing spots for TV shows... then I was discovered by Billy Davis of 5th Dimension. They sent me to Las Vegas for training and while I was there I did what a lot of people did: work the hotel circuit. I ended up in LA, and in ’79 or ’80, hooked up with the whole New Wave scene... that turned my head in this whole music thing. In ’85 I decided to become another session singer here in Los Angeles, and I started singing for major people like Dianne Warren, Desmond Child... I became their singer. That lasted until 1993, when I was singing backup with Vonda Shephard and this guy from Sweden came to see me. He told me, "You’re too good to be singing back up. You need to be singing dance music." He explained to me that being a woman of my color and size I could easily fit into the diva mold. He walked up to me at the end of the gig and said, "You need to check that out. Work with a DJ on your own songs." Within six months I had hooked up with a couple people out of New York and I’ve been doing mainly dance music and writing my own songs ever since.

Do you ever regret moving into dance music?

It literally saved my life! Because before then I wasn’t such a high profile person. No one knew who I was. When I started [dance music] it was like overnight these fans and DJs were getting in touch with me. I would have people walk up to me and say, "Oh my God, I never thought we’d be able to meet up." It totally changed.

I was watching TV around this time last year and I was seeing all these messes: Britney, Lindsay. And you know, older people have a sense of, "Where are your families? Why isn’t anyone helping you?"

The song that really announced your arrival in nightclubs is "Dive in the Pool," which has had an extraordinary shelf life. How did that come about?

[DJ/Producer Barry Harris] called me at my job. He told me he had something for me, so I went to this studio and he started playing me the track. It was just jumping out of the speakers! I said, "Where are the lyrics?" He said, "I’m writing them as we’re speaking. But I want you to talk this. I want you to personify a big voice." Well, the only thing I could think of is when my mother would call us in for dinner. So I decided to approach it on that level. I started working with him on it, but I thought it was loon! I said, "Barry, I’ve never heard anything like this. It sounds so novelty!" He said, "Don’t worry, it’s going to be great." I did the track and four months later I’m in Japan ... getting these e-mails saying, "Girl, you’re all over the Billboard chart with - Bay Windows / Scott Kearnan

Fabulous dance diva Pepper MaShay is probably best known for Billboard charting club hits "Dive in the Pool," "I Got My Pride," and her just-released single, "Does Your Momma Know?" But as makes sense for one of the club world’s most beloved stars, her first foray into music came from a very romantic inspiration: love letters.

"I met this man... and I would take his love letters to me and turn them into songs," says MaShay, who eventually married the writing Romeo. She eventually divorced him, too, but MaShay has a way of turning even heartache into success: the same man who inspired her music career at the start of their relationship also inspired her 2007 #1 Billboard Hot Dance Club Play hit "Lost Yo Mind," which lyrically re-visited their breakup.

Tonight (Friday, Feb. 13), MaShay will swing by Club Cafe on Columbus Ave. to wish a little luck to the gay hotspot’s resident DJ Aga during his birthday party. MaShay will not only perform many of her choice hits, but she’ll mix and mingle with the crowd, and of course, spread the love. Tomorrow, she’ll perform a special Valentine’s Day show at Providence’s Mirabar.

Bay Windows spoke with Ms. MaShay for the lowdown.

So Pepper, as a writer I have to ask - I hear that before you became a singer, you wanted to be a journalist?

Oh yes. I was a military brat living in Missouri, where they have one of the biggest journalism schools. A lot of the recruiters would come to our high school and I was seriously considering going into that field. Then I met this man, who ended up being my husband but is now my ex. ... I used to take his love letters and turn them into songs and play them on the guitar. When one of the other students heard the songs, they said, "Baby, forget about journalism. Become a singer and write your own music because what you’re doing is great!" It changed my life at 18.

Pepper MaShay, fabulous dance diva, plays the guitar?

I’m proud to say as of last week I made my first debut out here in LA, playing the guitar in an acoustic set for the first time in like, 10 to 15 years. It was at the Go Green Expo with the Mamapalooza organization. The response was so great to me. So not only is Pepper MaShay doing dance music, but she’s doing blues-folk. But I do that under the name Sister Jean.

Since you started on guitar, how did you wind up moving towards dance music?

You know baby, I started as a background singer doing spots for TV shows... then I was discovered by Billy Davis of 5th Dimension. They sent me to Las Vegas for training and while I was there I did what a lot of people did: work the hotel circuit. I ended up in LA, and in ’79 or ’80, hooked up with the whole New Wave scene... that turned my head in this whole music thing. In ’85 I decided to become another session singer here in Los Angeles, and I started singing for major people like Dianne Warren, Desmond Child... I became their singer. That lasted until 1993, when I was singing backup with Vonda Shephard and this guy from Sweden came to see me. He told me, "You’re too good to be singing back up. You need to be singing dance music." He explained to me that being a woman of my color and size I could easily fit into the diva mold. He walked up to me at the end of the gig and said, "You need to check that out. Work with a DJ on your own songs." Within six months I had hooked up with a couple people out of New York and I’ve been doing mainly dance music and writing my own songs ever since.

Do you ever regret moving into dance music?

It literally saved my life! Because before then I wasn’t such a high profile person. No one knew who I was. When I started [dance music] it was like overnight these fans and DJs were getting in touch with me. I would have people walk up to me and say, "Oh my God, I never thought we’d be able to meet up." It totally changed.

I was watching TV around this time last year and I was seeing all these messes: Britney, Lindsay. And you know, older people have a sense of, "Where are your families? Why isn’t anyone helping you?"

The song that really announced your arrival in nightclubs is "Dive in the Pool," which has had an extraordinary shelf life. How did that come about?

[DJ/Producer Barry Harris] called me at my job. He told me he had something for me, so I went to this studio and he started playing me the track. It was just jumping out of the speakers! I said, "Where are the lyrics?" He said, "I’m writing them as we’re speaking. But I want you to talk this. I want you to personify a big voice." Well, the only thing I could think of is when my mother would call us in for dinner. So I decided to approach it on that level. I started working with him on it, but I thought it was loon! I said, "Barry, I’ve never heard anything like this. It sounds so novelty!" He said, "Don’t worry, it’s going to be great." I did the track and four months later I’m in Japan ... getting these e-mails saying, "Girl, you’re all over the Billboard chart with - Bay Windows / Scott Kearnan

The Queen Bee caught up with the one and only Pepper MaShay. Dance Diva best known for her smash hit "Dive In The Pool" from the "Queer As Folk" soundtrack.

QB: Congratulations on your latest single "Does Your Mamma Know". What a great song, How did the song come about?

PM: Baby, the song was written from all the bad news that was circling around Britney, Lindsey, and Miley at the time. I was watching the news and I wondered out loud "Does Your Mamma Know"? As a parent, I always wanted good things to happen to my sons. But I do know crap happens, and sometimes you can't control your adult children.

QB: Where are you originally from? Where do you now live/call home?

PM: I'm originally from Muncie, Indiana. I'm still a Hoosier at heart. But not stuck in my ways. I do change for the better when it comes to life. I live in Los Angeles, CA .right now. I've been here since 1979 mainly for the music. But I'm here now because of my sons and a grandchild named Isabella. Zoë, my other grand lives in Las Vegas.

QB: When and what gave you the desire become a singer?

PM: I was always a dreamer with my head in the clouds. I would always perform for my family when asked to do so. But would stand in front of a mirror when i was alone and sing to myself. Also, my grandmother in Nashville would take us to church on Sunday and I couldn't help loving the music.

QB: There are many sub-genres of Dance Music, how would you describe your style?

PM: My genre is "Progressive-House" but I'm mainly known as a "House artist over in Europe. I love the soulful House genre also. I'm working with a couple of DJs who are getting soulful tracks ready for me to write to. It should be interesting what we come up with.

QB: You have toured many cities, what is your most memorable performance and why?

PM: Oh wow, it’s hard picking just one, but
I would have to say "Washington D.C. Pride in '03, singing on a Float in New York's Pride in '05, and "Toronto's Pride in June of this year. I was completely blown away because they were covering their pride on primetime TV. That city is a blast!! All of these shows are on "You Tube".

QB: Music styles are constantly changing and growing. How do you see the dance music scene changing/evolving?

PM: Well, some of us singers have put together our own record labels for ourselves and that will expand more. I also hope that one day folks will stop downloading our music for free. It’s really hard to make a living and I want to always put out good music for everyone. I also hope that radio will stop censoring folks from hearing our music 24/7! I'm not talking about Satellite Radio. I'm talking about the Clear Channel stations. They have a lot of power on what gets played. When i was growing up, we heard everything on the radio.

QB: The dance market has been going through a pretty rough time, where do you hope to see yourself in the next 3 years?

PM: Well, I'll still be in this business but I'm hoping to get more of a foot in the door over in Europe. I want to perform over there all the time. And i hope to help others with their knowledge of the business also.

QB: When you are not on the road performing, how do you like to spend your free time?

PM: Baby, I've turned into an internet junkie! I'm always online promoting myself or getting into fights with the right wing nut jobs on "Huffington Post". I'm a member with their site and i love it. When you're a singer in the business, you don't want to go out to clubs when you're home unless someone invites you to go out. I'm usually on the 'net.

QB: Who are some other artists you have had the chance to work with? Who would you love the opportunity to work with?

PM: Back in the 80'sand 90's I was a busy background singer in the LA’s session scene. I'm on Cher's "If I Could Turn Back Time" and "Love And Understanding",
Tina Turner's "What's Love Got To Do With It" for the movie, Celine Dion's
"If You Ask Me To" and more. It’s all in my Bio at peppermashy.com. I really miss those days but i really do love singing for myself now. Everything I write gets released. I feel truly blessed. I also sing with Bobby Caldwell. He's the guy that wrote the hit "What You Won't Do For Love". I've been with him for 15 years. He's truly one of the greats in the music biz. I would love to work with Peter Gabriel! I love how his organization works. He has Great songs, Great people, and Great Locations.

QB: In your opinion, what is the most important quality an individual must have to become successful in the music industry?

PM: I would have to say, Patience and Tolerance. You need the patience to wait for things that may come your way, and tolerance with working with some crazy-ass people. It gets nutty sometimes. But you have to deal with it if you want to be successful.

QB: So what can we look forward to from you in the near future?

PM: Well, I have a great song coming out from Germany called "Our - BPMBUzz Magazine

The Queen Bee caught up with the one and only Pepper MaShay. Dance Diva best known for her smash hit "Dive In The Pool" from the "Queer As Folk" soundtrack.

QB: Congratulations on your latest single "Does Your Mamma Know". What a great song, How did the song come about?

PM: Baby, the song was written from all the bad news that was circling around Britney, Lindsey, and Miley at the time. I was watching the news and I wondered out loud "Does Your Mamma Know"? As a parent, I always wanted good things to happen to my sons. But I do know crap happens, and sometimes you can't control your adult children.

QB: Where are you originally from? Where do you now live/call home?

PM: I'm originally from Muncie, Indiana. I'm still a Hoosier at heart. But not stuck in my ways. I do change for the better when it comes to life. I live in Los Angeles, CA .right now. I've been here since 1979 mainly for the music. But I'm here now because of my sons and a grandchild named Isabella. Zoë, my other grand lives in Las Vegas.

QB: When and what gave you the desire become a singer?

PM: I was always a dreamer with my head in the clouds. I would always perform for my family when asked to do so. But would stand in front of a mirror when i was alone and sing to myself. Also, my grandmother in Nashville would take us to church on Sunday and I couldn't help loving the music.

QB: There are many sub-genres of Dance Music, how would you describe your style?

PM: My genre is "Progressive-House" but I'm mainly known as a "House artist over in Europe. I love the soulful House genre also. I'm working with a couple of DJs who are getting soulful tracks ready for me to write to. It should be interesting what we come up with.

QB: You have toured many cities, what is your most memorable performance and why?

PM: Oh wow, it’s hard picking just one, but
I would have to say "Washington D.C. Pride in '03, singing on a Float in New York's Pride in '05, and "Toronto's Pride in June of this year. I was completely blown away because they were covering their pride on primetime TV. That city is a blast!! All of these shows are on "You Tube".

QB: Music styles are constantly changing and growing. How do you see the dance music scene changing/evolving?

PM: Well, some of us singers have put together our own record labels for ourselves and that will expand more. I also hope that one day folks will stop downloading our music for free. It’s really hard to make a living and I want to always put out good music for everyone. I also hope that radio will stop censoring folks from hearing our music 24/7! I'm not talking about Satellite Radio. I'm talking about the Clear Channel stations. They have a lot of power on what gets played. When i was growing up, we heard everything on the radio.

QB: The dance market has been going through a pretty rough time, where do you hope to see yourself in the next 3 years?

PM: Well, I'll still be in this business but I'm hoping to get more of a foot in the door over in Europe. I want to perform over there all the time. And i hope to help others with their knowledge of the business also.

QB: When you are not on the road performing, how do you like to spend your free time?

PM: Baby, I've turned into an internet junkie! I'm always online promoting myself or getting into fights with the right wing nut jobs on "Huffington Post". I'm a member with their site and i love it. When you're a singer in the business, you don't want to go out to clubs when you're home unless someone invites you to go out. I'm usually on the 'net.

QB: Who are some other artists you have had the chance to work with? Who would you love the opportunity to work with?

PM: Back in the 80'sand 90's I was a busy background singer in the LA’s session scene. I'm on Cher's "If I Could Turn Back Time" and "Love And Understanding",
Tina Turner's "What's Love Got To Do With It" for the movie, Celine Dion's
"If You Ask Me To" and more. It’s all in my Bio at peppermashy.com. I really miss those days but i really do love singing for myself now. Everything I write gets released. I feel truly blessed. I also sing with Bobby Caldwell. He's the guy that wrote the hit "What You Won't Do For Love". I've been with him for 15 years. He's truly one of the greats in the music biz. I would love to work with Peter Gabriel! I love how his organization works. He has Great songs, Great people, and Great Locations.

QB: In your opinion, what is the most important quality an individual must have to become successful in the music industry?

PM: I would have to say, Patience and Tolerance. You need the patience to wait for things that may come your way, and tolerance with working with some crazy-ass people. It gets nutty sometimes. But you have to deal with it if you want to be successful.

QB: So what can we look forward to from you in the near future?

PM: Well, I have a great song coming out from Germany called "Our - BPMBUzz Magazine

International recording artist and performer dance diva Pepper MaShay to perform at Main Stage of CSW (Christopher Street West) LA PRIDE 2010. The 40th Anniversary of LA PRIDE will be held in the City of West Hollywood on June 11 through June 13, 2010.

Pepper MaShay is DJ Casey Alva special guest. The Main Stage will be hosted by LA PRIDE Ben Patrick Johnson & Marcellas, Momma & Billy Masters.

We contacted Pepper MaShay for an exclusive interview and here is what she told Esteban "Steven" Escobar of Diversity News.

DN: How do you feel performing at LA Pride 2010?

PM: “I’m really happy being able to perform at L.A. Pride this year!! The last time I performed at “Pride” was in 2004 with Kristine W. I got a chance to do a duet with Kristine during her set. It was Great!!”

DN: Whom do you want to thanks to make this happen for you?

PM: “I want to thank Bob Kechter at Next Music Group, DJ Casey Alva, and the L.A. Pride Board for allowing me to do what I love and that is to perform for all of my fans and friends!!”

DN: What song will you performing at the event? What time you will be on the Main Stage?

PM: “I’m singing my latest release “Love & Understanding” (available at Beatport) and of course “Dive In The Pool”. I’ll have my dancers ”Blyss” and “Sean” with me also. It’s going to be fun!! I’ll go on around 8:15pm. I’m warming up the crowd for Kelly Rowland, who will go on around 9:00 pm”.

DN: Any message for your fans?

PM: “I want to tell my fans I can’t wait to see them and that i hope to say hello to each and everyone of them. Their smiling faces give me a lot of satisfaction when i do my performance”.

DN: Any recent projects you working on?

PM: “I’m still promoting “Cosmic Love Juice” which is still high on the Record Pool Charts. I’m promoting 2 new remix singles “Burnin” and ‘Things U Do To Me” for the dance market. I’m performing at ”Avalon” on June 10th at the famous “Tigerheat” party with DJ Ray Rhodes. I hope to see everyone there also. I’ll be doing a video for “Love & Understanding” soon. I’m liking the video scene a lot now. Ever since “Freeway Of Love”, I’ve gotten a whole new audience. Its Great!!”

DN: Where people to find more information about your performances, projects etc?

PM: Fans and Friends can reach me at my website: www.peppermashay.com www.Facebook.com/peppermashay and www.myspace.com/frecklebandit

All of my upcoming shows will be up on the sites!! I love all of my fans when they reach me online. Its really cool getting in touch thru the Internet!! I look forward in seeing everyone at L.A. Pride 2010!!”

Steven Escobar (DN): Pepper congratulations and thanks for taking the time in providing us an exclusive interview. Best of Luck. - Hollywood Events Examiner / Esteban Escobar

International recording artist and performer dance diva Pepper MaShay to perform at Main Stage of CSW (Christopher Street West) LA PRIDE 2010. The 40th Anniversary of LA PRIDE will be held in the City of West Hollywood on June 11 through June 13, 2010.

Pepper MaShay is DJ Casey Alva special guest. The Main Stage will be hosted by LA PRIDE Ben Patrick Johnson & Marcellas, Momma & Billy Masters.

We contacted Pepper MaShay for an exclusive interview and here is what she told Esteban "Steven" Escobar of Diversity News.

DN: How do you feel performing at LA Pride 2010?

PM: “I’m really happy being able to perform at L.A. Pride this year!! The last time I performed at “Pride” was in 2004 with Kristine W. I got a chance to do a duet with Kristine during her set. It was Great!!”

DN: Whom do you want to thanks to make this happen for you?

PM: “I want to thank Bob Kechter at Next Music Group, DJ Casey Alva, and the L.A. Pride Board for allowing me to do what I love and that is to perform for all of my fans and friends!!”

DN: What song will you performing at the event? What time you will be on the Main Stage?

PM: “I’m singing my latest release “Love & Understanding” (available at Beatport) and of course “Dive In The Pool”. I’ll have my dancers ”Blyss” and “Sean” with me also. It’s going to be fun!! I’ll go on around 8:15pm. I’m warming up the crowd for Kelly Rowland, who will go on around 9:00 pm”.

DN: Any message for your fans?

PM: “I want to tell my fans I can’t wait to see them and that i hope to say hello to each and everyone of them. Their smiling faces give me a lot of satisfaction when i do my performance”.

DN: Any recent projects you working on?

PM: “I’m still promoting “Cosmic Love Juice” which is still high on the Record Pool Charts. I’m promoting 2 new remix singles “Burnin” and ‘Things U Do To Me” for the dance market. I’m performing at ”Avalon” on June 10th at the famous “Tigerheat” party with DJ Ray Rhodes. I hope to see everyone there also. I’ll be doing a video for “Love & Understanding” soon. I’m liking the video scene a lot now. Ever since “Freeway Of Love”, I’ve gotten a whole new audience. Its Great!!”

DN: Where people to find more information about your performances, projects etc?

PM: Fans and Friends can reach me at my website: www.peppermashay.com www.Facebook.com/peppermashay and www.myspace.com/frecklebandit

All of my upcoming shows will be up on the sites!! I love all of my fans when they reach me online. Its really cool getting in touch thru the Internet!! I look forward in seeing everyone at L.A. Pride 2010!!”

Steven Escobar (DN): Pepper congratulations and thanks for taking the time in providing us an exclusive interview. Best of Luck. - Hollywood Events Examiner / Esteban Escobar

October 2009

Pepper MaShay (website, discogs, wikipedia, itunes) makes no bones about where you stand. Her music is big, her voice even bigger. If you look under the organizations she is affiliated with, you get the feeling that her voice is that big so those who can't speak for themselves get their chance to be heard. Her work with Thunderpuss is legendary, but it's her political views and social consciousness that makes her so multifaceted.
With her rendition of Aretha Franklin's "Freeway of Love" climbing the music charts, this very busy diva took some time to chat with me.

Have you always been politically aware?

My activism came because of not being able to participate in the civil rights movement in the '60s. I was too young and lived on an army base because my dad was in the army.
I refuse now to sit back and watch people being discriminated against. I have the gay community to thank for that. It's terrible seeing the hate that is thrown against the community just because of their sexuality.

And now, to have that hatred hurled against the first black president of the USA is distressing. I guess this is how the Republicans felt after we called Bush a liar about the Iraq War. Situations do repeat themselves in this country. I never dreamed I would be living in a time where there would be a biracial president. Wow!! But I've called out a lot of people trying to put a target on the back of Obama. If a person doesn't see the racism in this country now, they are blind to the truth. Black folks have had to live with this mess forever, and now everybody knows what we've been saying.

What are your thoughts on how the president's been doing so far?

President Obama is trying to do a good job. He knows he has to do it in a bi-partisan way, but the Republicans aren't going to let him. And the libbers like myself don't want to give in to them. They are some evil people. I feel fortunate to be living in the "Time Of Obama" and I refuse to let this one get away! I'll tell you more after he's in for a year.

Of all songs to remake, why did you decide on "Freeway of Love?"

I felt I needed to make an impact on my next song after "Does Your Mamma Know (You're A Freak)". I won The USA Songwriting Competition for '08 with "Mamma". That was a pleasure because I did the song with my partner, DJ Corey D at pridenation.com. So I chose a song that I really liked and that nobody had done before, dancewise. I grew up listening to "The Queen of Soul" and I wanted to do it justice. It's fun, and the lyrical content is definitely something I would write.

Was Aretha in your head when you were in the studio?
You bet she was. As a kid in junior high, she was the one I listened to, and I had visions of being in the music business because of her. Everything she sang was right on the money!! I figured I had better nail the vocal feel at least. But I didn't want to copy her. I pretended I was singing the song on stage and in front of a band. I didn't want it to be clean.

What are you thoughts on the music scene as it stands today?

Baby, I'm real excited about the music I've been doing since the summer. I pretty much worked with everyone from Eddie Amador, to having a hit with "Freeway of Love" on Capp Records this year. I made a promise to myself I would never go through a year without putting a new song out to everyone.

Overall in the business though, I think it sucks!! I grew up in a time where you had entertainers you could see and touch. Now, you have some DJ spinning behind a deck of CD players and computers.

I also have a release after "Freeway" that will be great. Its called "Love And Understanding" on Fatal Music out of The Netherlands. I'll keep everyone up on the release. Its one of my best vocal arrangements ever. Thank ya baby!

No, thank YOU Pepper for your time and for the music! I look forward to your new release!

http://www.5chicago.com/features/october2009/pepper-mashay.html - 5 Magazine

October 2009

Pepper MaShay (website, discogs, wikipedia, itunes) makes no bones about where you stand. Her music is big, her voice even bigger. If you look under the organizations she is affiliated with, you get the feeling that her voice is that big so those who can't speak for themselves get their chance to be heard. Her work with Thunderpuss is legendary, but it's her political views and social consciousness that makes her so multifaceted.
With her rendition of Aretha Franklin's "Freeway of Love" climbing the music charts, this very busy diva took some time to chat with me.

Have you always been politically aware?

My activism came because of not being able to participate in the civil rights movement in the '60s. I was too young and lived on an army base because my dad was in the army.
I refuse now to sit back and watch people being discriminated against. I have the gay community to thank for that. It's terrible seeing the hate that is thrown against the community just because of their sexuality.

And now, to have that hatred hurled against the first black president of the USA is distressing. I guess this is how the Republicans felt after we called Bush a liar about the Iraq War. Situations do repeat themselves in this country. I never dreamed I would be living in a time where there would be a biracial president. Wow!! But I've called out a lot of people trying to put a target on the back of Obama. If a person doesn't see the racism in this country now, they are blind to the truth. Black folks have had to live with this mess forever, and now everybody knows what we've been saying.

What are your thoughts on how the president's been doing so far?

President Obama is trying to do a good job. He knows he has to do it in a bi-partisan way, but the Republicans aren't going to let him. And the libbers like myself don't want to give in to them. They are some evil people. I feel fortunate to be living in the "Time Of Obama" and I refuse to let this one get away! I'll tell you more after he's in for a year.

Of all songs to remake, why did you decide on "Freeway of Love?"

I felt I needed to make an impact on my next song after "Does Your Mamma Know (You're A Freak)". I won The USA Songwriting Competition for '08 with "Mamma". That was a pleasure because I did the song with my partner, DJ Corey D at pridenation.com. So I chose a song that I really liked and that nobody had done before, dancewise. I grew up listening to "The Queen of Soul" and I wanted to do it justice. It's fun, and the lyrical content is definitely something I would write.

Was Aretha in your head when you were in the studio?
You bet she was. As a kid in junior high, she was the one I listened to, and I had visions of being in the music business because of her. Everything she sang was right on the money!! I figured I had better nail the vocal feel at least. But I didn't want to copy her. I pretended I was singing the song on stage and in front of a band. I didn't want it to be clean.

What are you thoughts on the music scene as it stands today?

Baby, I'm real excited about the music I've been doing since the summer. I pretty much worked with everyone from Eddie Amador, to having a hit with "Freeway of Love" on Capp Records this year. I made a promise to myself I would never go through a year without putting a new song out to everyone.

Overall in the business though, I think it sucks!! I grew up in a time where you had entertainers you could see and touch. Now, you have some DJ spinning behind a deck of CD players and computers.

I also have a release after "Freeway" that will be great. Its called "Love And Understanding" on Fatal Music out of The Netherlands. I'll keep everyone up on the release. Its one of my best vocal arrangements ever. Thank ya baby!

No, thank YOU Pepper for your time and for the music! I look forward to your new release!

http://www.5chicago.com/features/october2009/pepper-mashay.html - 5 Magazine

Fabulous dance diva Pepper MaShay is probably best known for Billboard charting club hits "Dive in the Pool," "I Got My Pride," and her just-released single, "Does Your Momma Know?" But as makes sense for one of the club world’s most beloved stars, her first foray into music came from a very romantic inspiration: love letters.

"I met this man... and I would take his love letters to me and turn them into songs," says MaShay, who eventually married the writing Romeo. She eventually divorced him, too, but MaShay has a way of turning even heartache into success: the same man who inspired her music career at the start of their relationship also inspired her 2007 #1 Billboard Hot Dance Club Play hit "Lost Yo Mind," which lyrically re-visited their breakup.

Tonight (Friday, Feb. 13), MaShay will swing by Club Cafe on Columbus Ave. to wish a little luck to the gay hotspot’s resident DJ Aga during his birthday party. MaShay will not only perform many of her choice hits, but she’ll mix and mingle with the crowd, and of course, spread the love. Tomorrow, she’ll perform a special Valentine’s Day show at Providence’s Mirabar.

Bay Windows spoke with Ms. MaShay for the lowdown.

So Pepper, as a writer I have to ask - I hear that before you became a singer, you wanted to be a journalist?

Oh yes. I was a military brat living in Missouri, where they have one of the biggest journalism schools. A lot of the recruiters would come to our high school and I was seriously considering going into that field. Then I met this man, who ended up being my husband but is now my ex. ... I used to take his love letters and turn them into songs and play them on the guitar. When one of the other students heard the songs, they said, "Baby, forget about journalism. Become a singer and write your own music because what you’re doing is great!" It changed my life at 18.

Pepper MaShay, fabulous dance diva, plays the guitar?

I’m proud to say as of last week I made my first debut out here in LA, playing the guitar in an acoustic set for the first time in like, 10 to 15 years. It was at the Go Green Expo with the Mamapalooza organization. The response was so great to me. So not only is Pepper MaShay doing dance music, but she’s doing blues-folk. But I do that under the name Sister Jean.

Since you started on guitar, how did you wind up moving towards dance music?

You know baby, I started as a background singer doing spots for TV shows... then I was discovered by Billy Davis of 5th Dimension. They sent me to Las Vegas for training and while I was there I did what a lot of people did: work the hotel circuit. I ended up in LA, and in ’79 or ’80, hooked up with the whole New Wave scene... that turned my head in this whole music thing. In ’85 I decided to become another session singer here in Los Angeles, and I started singing for major people like Dianne Warren, Desmond Child... I became their singer. That lasted until 1993, when I was singing backup with Vonda Shephard and this guy from Sweden came to see me. He told me, "You’re too good to be singing back up. You need to be singing dance music." He explained to me that being a woman of my color and size I could easily fit into the diva mold. He walked up to me at the end of the gig and said, "You need to check that out. Work with a DJ on your own songs." Within six months I had hooked up with a couple people out of New York and I’ve been doing mainly dance music and writing my own songs ever since.

Do you ever regret moving into dance music?

It literally saved my life! Because before then I wasn’t such a high profile person. No one knew who I was. When I started [dance music] it was like overnight these fans and DJs were getting in touch with me. I would have people walk up to me and say, "Oh my God, I never thought we’d be able to meet up." It totally changed.

I was watching TV around this time last year and I was seeing all these messes: Britney, Lindsay. And you know, older people have a sense of, "Where are your families? Why isn’t anyone helping you?"

The song that really announced your arrival in nightclubs is "Dive in the Pool," which has had an extraordinary shelf life. How did that come about?

[DJ/Producer Barry Harris] called me at my job. He told me he had something for me, so I went to this studio and he started playing me the track. It was just jumping out of the speakers! I said, "Where are the lyrics?" He said, "I’m writing them as we’re speaking. But I want you to talk this. I want you to personify a big voice." Well, the only thing I could think of is when my mother would call us in for dinner. So I decided to approach it on that level. I started working with him on it, but I thought it was loon! I said, "Barry, I’ve never heard anything like this. It sounds so novelty!" He said, "Don’t worry, it’s going to be great." I did the track and four months later I’m in Japan ... getting these e-mails saying, "Girl, you’re all over the Billboard chart with - Bay Windows / Scott Kearnan

Fabulous dance diva Pepper MaShay is probably best known for Billboard charting club hits "Dive in the Pool," "I Got My Pride," and her just-released single, "Does Your Momma Know?" But as makes sense for one of the club world’s most beloved stars, her first foray into music came from a very romantic inspiration: love letters.

"I met this man... and I would take his love letters to me and turn them into songs," says MaShay, who eventually married the writing Romeo. She eventually divorced him, too, but MaShay has a way of turning even heartache into success: the same man who inspired her music career at the start of their relationship also inspired her 2007 #1 Billboard Hot Dance Club Play hit "Lost Yo Mind," which lyrically re-visited their breakup.

Tonight (Friday, Feb. 13), MaShay will swing by Club Cafe on Columbus Ave. to wish a little luck to the gay hotspot’s resident DJ Aga during his birthday party. MaShay will not only perform many of her choice hits, but she’ll mix and mingle with the crowd, and of course, spread the love. Tomorrow, she’ll perform a special Valentine’s Day show at Providence’s Mirabar.

Bay Windows spoke with Ms. MaShay for the lowdown.

So Pepper, as a writer I have to ask - I hear that before you became a singer, you wanted to be a journalist?

Oh yes. I was a military brat living in Missouri, where they have one of the biggest journalism schools. A lot of the recruiters would come to our high school and I was seriously considering going into that field. Then I met this man, who ended up being my husband but is now my ex. ... I used to take his love letters and turn them into songs and play them on the guitar. When one of the other students heard the songs, they said, "Baby, forget about journalism. Become a singer and write your own music because what you’re doing is great!" It changed my life at 18.

Pepper MaShay, fabulous dance diva, plays the guitar?

I’m proud to say as of last week I made my first debut out here in LA, playing the guitar in an acoustic set for the first time in like, 10 to 15 years. It was at the Go Green Expo with the Mamapalooza organization. The response was so great to me. So not only is Pepper MaShay doing dance music, but she’s doing blues-folk. But I do that under the name Sister Jean.

Since you started on guitar, how did you wind up moving towards dance music?

You know baby, I started as a background singer doing spots for TV shows... then I was discovered by Billy Davis of 5th Dimension. They sent me to Las Vegas for training and while I was there I did what a lot of people did: work the hotel circuit. I ended up in LA, and in ’79 or ’80, hooked up with the whole New Wave scene... that turned my head in this whole music thing. In ’85 I decided to become another session singer here in Los Angeles, and I started singing for major people like Dianne Warren, Desmond Child... I became their singer. That lasted until 1993, when I was singing backup with Vonda Shephard and this guy from Sweden came to see me. He told me, "You’re too good to be singing back up. You need to be singing dance music." He explained to me that being a woman of my color and size I could easily fit into the diva mold. He walked up to me at the end of the gig and said, "You need to check that out. Work with a DJ on your own songs." Within six months I had hooked up with a couple people out of New York and I’ve been doing mainly dance music and writing my own songs ever since.

Do you ever regret moving into dance music?

It literally saved my life! Because before then I wasn’t such a high profile person. No one knew who I was. When I started [dance music] it was like overnight these fans and DJs were getting in touch with me. I would have people walk up to me and say, "Oh my God, I never thought we’d be able to meet up." It totally changed.

I was watching TV around this time last year and I was seeing all these messes: Britney, Lindsay. And you know, older people have a sense of, "Where are your families? Why isn’t anyone helping you?"

The song that really announced your arrival in nightclubs is "Dive in the Pool," which has had an extraordinary shelf life. How did that come about?

[DJ/Producer Barry Harris] called me at my job. He told me he had something for me, so I went to this studio and he started playing me the track. It was just jumping out of the speakers! I said, "Where are the lyrics?" He said, "I’m writing them as we’re speaking. But I want you to talk this. I want you to personify a big voice." Well, the only thing I could think of is when my mother would call us in for dinner. So I decided to approach it on that level. I started working with him on it, but I thought it was loon! I said, "Barry, I’ve never heard anything like this. It sounds so novelty!" He said, "Don’t worry, it’s going to be great." I did the track and four months later I’m in Japan ... getting these e-mails saying, "Girl, you’re all over the Billboard chart with - Bay Windows / Scott Kearnan

Dance Artist Pepper MaShay’s “Freeway of Love” Out Now On CAPP Records

Pepper MaShay’s” Freeway of Love” Blasts Off From Live Shows To Broadcast Channels

San Rafael, CA (PRWEB) August 6th, 2009 — Dance recording artist Pepper MaShay (http://www.peppermashay.com/) is returning to the airwaves and dance floors across the country this week with her latest single, Freeway of Love, to be released through dance record label CAPP Records–the first time MaShay has worked with CAPP, which is known for its energetic releases that range in style from progressive house to techno.

The inimitable Pepper MaShay draws throngs of loyal fans during her frequent appearances around the world, and has been performing Freeway of Love throughout the summer to enthusiastic reviews. Penned by Narada Michael Walden and Jeffrey Cohen for Aretha Franklin’s legendary 1985 album Who’s Zoomin’ Who, fans and DJs alike have been clamoring for the release of Pepper’s take on the song.

MaShay–globally known and universally loved–brings attitude, heart and soul to every release that’s been graced by her vocals, and Freeway of Love is no exception. Originally a session singer for the likes of Tina Turner, Cher, Mick Jagger, Celine Dion and others, Pepper has gone on to establish herself as a true dance diva. Perhaps best-known for her contributions to Barry Harris’ dance mega-hit Dive in the Pool (the unofficial anthem from Showtime Television’s Queer as Folk), Pepper has recorded dozens of songs over her career, including I Got My Pride, Lost Yo Mind, and the incredible I Can’t Stop.

CAPP Records’ release of Freeway of Love includes remixes from Steely M. & Cary August, Germany’s Dany Wild, Spain’s Oscar Salguero, and many more, with the mixes ranging from filter house, to progressive, to electro.

Pepper MaShay (http://www.peppermashay.com/) has never sounded so good–or so hot! The single has been provided to DJs and radio stations nationwide this week; dance music consumers can download their copy of Freeway of Love starting August 18th on the Apple iTunes Music Store*, and other digital music retailers in early September.

*Apple and iTunes are registered trademarks of Apple Inc. - CAPP Records

Dance Artist Pepper MaShay’s “Freeway of Love” Out Now On CAPP Records

Pepper MaShay’s” Freeway of Love” Blasts Off From Live Shows To Broadcast Channels

San Rafael, CA (PRWEB) August 6th, 2009 — Dance recording artist Pepper MaShay (http://www.peppermashay.com/) is returning to the airwaves and dance floors across the country this week with her latest single, Freeway of Love, to be released through dance record label CAPP Records–the first time MaShay has worked with CAPP, which is known for its energetic releases that range in style from progressive house to techno.

The inimitable Pepper MaShay draws throngs of loyal fans during her frequent appearances around the world, and has been performing Freeway of Love throughout the summer to enthusiastic reviews. Penned by Narada Michael Walden and Jeffrey Cohen for Aretha Franklin’s legendary 1985 album Who’s Zoomin’ Who, fans and DJs alike have been clamoring for the release of Pepper’s take on the song.

MaShay–globally known and universally loved–brings attitude, heart and soul to every release that’s been graced by her vocals, and Freeway of Love is no exception. Originally a session singer for the likes of Tina Turner, Cher, Mick Jagger, Celine Dion and others, Pepper has gone on to establish herself as a true dance diva. Perhaps best-known for her contributions to Barry Harris’ dance mega-hit Dive in the Pool (the unofficial anthem from Showtime Television’s Queer as Folk), Pepper has recorded dozens of songs over her career, including I Got My Pride, Lost Yo Mind, and the incredible I Can’t Stop.

CAPP Records’ release of Freeway of Love includes remixes from Steely M. & Cary August, Germany’s Dany Wild, Spain’s Oscar Salguero, and many more, with the mixes ranging from filter house, to progressive, to electro.

Pepper MaShay (http://www.peppermashay.com/) has never sounded so good–or so hot! The single has been provided to DJs and radio stations nationwide this week; dance music consumers can download their copy of Freeway of Love starting August 18th on the Apple iTunes Music Store*, and other digital music retailers in early September.

*Apple and iTunes are registered trademarks of Apple Inc. - CAPP Records

"I know y'all wanna go dive in the pool...lets get soakin' wet!' You know the famous club floor anthem from 2003 (heck, I sweated out 15 lbs. on the floor that year cuz of that song), which became an even bigger hit on 'Queer As Folk.' But who's the woman kickin' out those divalicious vocals? None other than dance icon Pepper MaShay.

Pepper has been turning out club hits now for years - 'Dive in the Pool,' 'Release Yourself,' 'I Got My Pride' and the Billboard #1 'Lost Yo Mind,' just to name a few.

Now she's got a brand new track out: 'Does Your Mama Know?'

Pepper was kind enough to take the time to answer some Muzo-style questions. The diva talks up everything from working with Tina Turner, the high of a #1 hit and what she likes to do for fun - to her experience with the very hot Colton Ford.

*****

Muzo: This year, you have been a hit-making machine! First off, congratulations on your most recent release 'Does Your Mama Know.' In 2008, you've also released 'Release Yourself,' 'Hooked,' 'Pray for Tomorrow' and 'Got to Give the People (What They Want).' When it comes down to writing/producing a new song, where does the creative process begin for you?

Pepper: First, I'd like to say thank you for wanting to interview me. I really appreciate it. I usually start by getting the track from one of my favorite DJs, and then when I discover something that I like, I get started on the idea right away. I try to write about subjects that draw attention to the human condition like: Love Relationships, Dancing, Partying, and an idea that is new to me now, "Pop Culture."

I've started writing about what's going on in the world and not so much about what's going on with me. You've got to bring in universal elements in order to keep a person's attention span on you. I like the way Mariah Carey uses words to describe certain emotions in her songs. I always try to apply something new in what I write about.

*****

Muzo: In 2007, your track 'Lost Yo Mind' became your first number one as a soloist on Billboard's Hot Dance Club Play. What did you do to celebrate?

Pepper: Well, I didn't really celebrate by going out. I did call up all of my friends and told them the great news, and then I went right back to calling up all the DJs and told them to keep playing my song. It was a great feeling, but that soon leaves you when you have to keep repeating it over and over. That part is really illusive and daunting. Now, I just want folks to like what I do.

*****

Muzo: One of your most well-known hits, which also went #1, 'Dive in the Pool' (with Barry Harris) was featured on 'Queer As Folk' and had gays nationwide getting 'soaking wet!' How did you feel when that song blew up? Did you expect it?

Pepper: I just couldn't believe that folks would go crazy over an idea that Barry had given me. Just goes to show that you can't throw anything away. I was amazed that someone would want me sounding like my mother, telling folks to dive in a pool. And because Barry knew the production team of "Queer As Folk" he was able to get it to them before the song really got big on the radio. It was incredible. I was totally busy and couldn't stop performing. Everyone wants you when you're hot like that.

*****

Muzo: You've worked with a number of artists over the years - from Celine Dion, Cher and Mick Jagger to Steve Perry and Ray Charles. This may be a hard one, but out of all your collaborations, what's one in particular that stands out?

Pepper: That would have to be, Tina Turner! I got that gig from Robbie Nevil (He's one of the writers for "High School Musical.") He recommended me to Roger Davies (Tina's manager) to sing on the soundtrack for "What's Love Got to Do with It." It was fantastic!! I met her and was struck by her beauty inside and out. She was totally professional, juggling her schedule between the production meetings with Disney, showing the dancers their steps, getting with the actors, and then coming to the recording studio to work with the singers and band. WoW!! What energy.

We did all of the songs from the time she started her career in music to the day she left Ike in the movie. We did the sessions in 2 days, and on the 3rd day, she let us hang out with her in the studio all day taking pictures and signing autographs. She's so gracious.

*****

Muzo: Who are the DJs that you like to work with a lot?

Pepper: I have someone new to the camp now, and that is DJ Corey D of PNN Radio fame. He's my co-partner on the new song "Does Your Mamma Know." I had a great time working with him, and so it will happen again on the next single.

I also like working with DJ Tony Marinos. He's always been in my corner, and I hope to have him in on the next song remix, too. I loved working with JJ Royal. He's a sweet man, and I like folks like that. Also, Victor Da Silva from Latin America via Switzerland. His rhythms are intoxicating.

All of these guys are on "Does Your Mamma Know." So, all of y - The Muzophile Blog

"I know y'all wanna go dive in the pool...lets get soakin' wet!' You know the famous club floor anthem from 2003 (heck, I sweated out 15 lbs. on the floor that year cuz of that song), which became an even bigger hit on 'Queer As Folk.' But who's the woman kickin' out those divalicious vocals? None other than dance icon Pepper MaShay.

Pepper has been turning out club hits now for years - 'Dive in the Pool,' 'Release Yourself,' 'I Got My Pride' and the Billboard #1 'Lost Yo Mind,' just to name a few.

Now she's got a brand new track out: 'Does Your Mama Know?'

Pepper was kind enough to take the time to answer some Muzo-style questions. The diva talks up everything from working with Tina Turner, the high of a #1 hit and what she likes to do for fun - to her experience with the very hot Colton Ford.

*****

Muzo: This year, you have been a hit-making machine! First off, congratulations on your most recent release 'Does Your Mama Know.' In 2008, you've also released 'Release Yourself,' 'Hooked,' 'Pray for Tomorrow' and 'Got to Give the People (What They Want).' When it comes down to writing/producing a new song, where does the creative process begin for you?

Pepper: First, I'd like to say thank you for wanting to interview me. I really appreciate it. I usually start by getting the track from one of my favorite DJs, and then when I discover something that I like, I get started on the idea right away. I try to write about subjects that draw attention to the human condition like: Love Relationships, Dancing, Partying, and an idea that is new to me now, "Pop Culture."

I've started writing about what's going on in the world and not so much about what's going on with me. You've got to bring in universal elements in order to keep a person's attention span on you. I like the way Mariah Carey uses words to describe certain emotions in her songs. I always try to apply something new in what I write about.

*****

Muzo: In 2007, your track 'Lost Yo Mind' became your first number one as a soloist on Billboard's Hot Dance Club Play. What did you do to celebrate?

Pepper: Well, I didn't really celebrate by going out. I did call up all of my friends and told them the great news, and then I went right back to calling up all the DJs and told them to keep playing my song. It was a great feeling, but that soon leaves you when you have to keep repeating it over and over. That part is really illusive and daunting. Now, I just want folks to like what I do.

*****

Muzo: One of your most well-known hits, which also went #1, 'Dive in the Pool' (with Barry Harris) was featured on 'Queer As Folk' and had gays nationwide getting 'soaking wet!' How did you feel when that song blew up? Did you expect it?

Pepper: I just couldn't believe that folks would go crazy over an idea that Barry had given me. Just goes to show that you can't throw anything away. I was amazed that someone would want me sounding like my mother, telling folks to dive in a pool. And because Barry knew the production team of "Queer As Folk" he was able to get it to them before the song really got big on the radio. It was incredible. I was totally busy and couldn't stop performing. Everyone wants you when you're hot like that.

*****

Muzo: You've worked with a number of artists over the years - from Celine Dion, Cher and Mick Jagger to Steve Perry and Ray Charles. This may be a hard one, but out of all your collaborations, what's one in particular that stands out?

Pepper: That would have to be, Tina Turner! I got that gig from Robbie Nevil (He's one of the writers for "High School Musical.") He recommended me to Roger Davies (Tina's manager) to sing on the soundtrack for "What's Love Got to Do with It." It was fantastic!! I met her and was struck by her beauty inside and out. She was totally professional, juggling her schedule between the production meetings with Disney, showing the dancers their steps, getting with the actors, and then coming to the recording studio to work with the singers and band. WoW!! What energy.

We did all of the songs from the time she started her career in music to the day she left Ike in the movie. We did the sessions in 2 days, and on the 3rd day, she let us hang out with her in the studio all day taking pictures and signing autographs. She's so gracious.

*****

Muzo: Who are the DJs that you like to work with a lot?

Pepper: I have someone new to the camp now, and that is DJ Corey D of PNN Radio fame. He's my co-partner on the new song "Does Your Mamma Know." I had a great time working with him, and so it will happen again on the next single.

I also like working with DJ Tony Marinos. He's always been in my corner, and I hope to have him in on the next song remix, too. I loved working with JJ Royal. He's a sweet man, and I like folks like that. Also, Victor Da Silva from Latin America via Switzerland. His rhythms are intoxicating.

All of these guys are on "Does Your Mamma Know." So, all of y - The Muzophile Blog