Mika Mendes gives advices to those looking to follow in his footsteps, growing up in a musical family and plans for the rest of the year.

How did you get started with playing and creating music?

I started at a very young age with my little brother by taking piano lessons and then we started composing together.

At what age did you decide to take it seriously?

When I was 24 years old.

I’m interested in your musical roots, which musicians and songwriters are your greatest influences?  and what are your favourite albums?

I’ll start with my musical influences who are:
Michael Jackson
Boy Ge Mendes
Djavan
Ne-Yo
The Weeknd
Bruno Mars
Chris Brown.

Whilst my favourite albums are:
Michael Jackson: Dangerous
R Kelly: R.
Djavan (ao vivo)
Craig David: Born to do it
Ne-Yo: in my own words
Chris Brown: Fortune
Bruno Mars: Do Wops & Hooligans

What was it like growing up in a musical family?

It was a good learning curve because from a young age I’ve always accompanied my father on a day-to-day basis. I’ve been able to see his creative process from creating compositions, or during rehearsals to watching him perform in concerts which, I guess, was like training. Although at the time, it wasn’t what I wanted to do, today I realise how beneficial it was.

Do you think the internet has played a part in the explosion of kizomba artists and music and do you think this is good,  when it comes to the quality of music being produced?

Without a doubt, but I think for all other styles of music too. With Kizomba, it hasn’t been an individual but more of a team work, starting with the dance, DJ, teachers around the world who have contributed enormously to the evolution of Kizomba.

There was also a lot of work done by the older artists of the previous generation who have inspired many new artists to maintain this musical style and quality.

Who are your favourite current songwriters or musicians?

Michael Jackson
R-Kelly

Are you more of a singer or more of a song-writer?

Today I’ll say I’m an author, composer, and a singer.

Do you get nervous before a performance or a competition?

Always!

What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?

What’s important in the development of the artist is to be surrounded by great people and well advised. I can tell you that all in all I have always been, sometimes things can be a bit difficult to accomplish or overcome, that’s why you need to have a good team.

You should also have great determination, discipline and a lot of patience.

What are your plans & hopes for the future regarding your music?

I am currently in a transitional phase but there’s an album planned for this year and a new Mika Mendes with other musical styles.