On The Rise: LuMi Naughty

By Stranga The Great
Hip Hop Vibe Staff Writer

When looking for hip hop talent, people need to look no further than what’s going on right here in North Carolina. There are plenty of artists who are up-and-coming and LuMi Naughty is among these people. In addition to being one of the hottest rising artists in the game, she is also a model.

LuMi Naughty has made great strides in both professions she has chosen to further her life. At one point, LuMi Naughty was even in the running for “America’s Next Top Model,” taking the trip to New York City. Eventually, she did not make the number, but it was a great career experience.

It’s been a while since Hip Hop Vibe has done On The Rise, so it was only right to bring it back with LuMi Naughty. She is a homegrown talent and she is making a name for herself on both a national and international level. In her interview, LuMi Naughty explained just how she entered the game and the moves she was making.

Read the entire interview below:

Your a very creative individual, so can you tell us how you came up with the name LuMi Naughty? Thank you for the flowers love. When I first thought of my name, I was thinking something that defines me. They say I have a luminous personality & smile, and I’m a luminary, someone who inspires others. Naughty, well that’s self explanatory; everyone has a naughty side and there are times I let it out. People talk about what it sounds similar to, but I know what it is so it doesn’t really phase me. Some call me LuMi Naughty, some call me Naughty, but I mainly go by LuMi.

Do you find that also being a model helps aid in your career as a hip hop artist? Yes, modeling most definitely helps my career as an artist. Not only does modeling school teach you how to model, but it teaches you how to properly promote or model a product. You learn how to work the camera; catching the eyes of potential sponsors. You also get to expand your fan base and introduce them to your music. I love it!

How did you get involved with “America’s Next Top Model’s” Cycle 13 and tell us about the experience? Oh wow, the memories (laughs.) Well, when they were casting for cycle 13, the shorter models casting, in downtown New York City; I was like ”I’m in there.” It was crazy not only was it like 10 degrees outside, but my niece and I went downtown with blankets and winter gear at 3 am to see a line that circled around Park Central Hotel twice. We were in line for seventeen hours, arguing with females, watching fights and all that.

There was even a moment when someone shouted bomb that triggered a stampede of females. I was happy once we got inside and cutoff happened not even 2 minutes later. We filled out paperwork, modeled and did video submissions there. There was a lot of waiting, because there were so many models.

Throughout the night names would be called and those not called would have to leave. I lasted until the last group was called, but didn’t make the cut. I wasn’t really all that upset, but I was I exhausted. It was a great experience because I made new fans and gave away 1,000 copies of my ‘LuMi Mix’ cds and 1,000 promo cards along with it.

What is it that you would say gravitates people to your movement? I can say its my personality and how I’ve overcame and still overcome, without losing perseverance and determination. My music and its’ versatility is also key. Not only do I branch out to different demographics, but I stand for making a positive change within the communities throughout. People say I can’t change the world, BUT i can make positive impact and leave a lasting impression on someone’s life.

You don’t seem to be shy when it comes to sexuality. Would you ever pose for a magazine like Playboy? Hmm, Playboy, I wouldn’t mind posing for as long as I have some sort of clothes on. As for being nude, I’ll pass. I like to give a taste not show all my goods. The goodies will stay in the jar.

You have one of the bigger followings as far as Carolina artist go. Where do you plan on taking the LuMi’ brand in 2014? Our goal right now is to expand to a more international market. My versatility and own unique sound caters to several different people and demographics. Right now we’re planning the drop of my EP, Calm Before The Storm, later followed by my album Undeniable. We currently have a single on iTunes, “Electechnology” featuring Ashley Mar Shell and Mica Swain – you can also call in to MIX101.5 and request the song. My manager Lashon Jones, of Creative Soul Music Group/ Got What U Need Digital, and producer/media specialist DoxKingdom, of Doxkingdom Studios, are working together to create the perfect marketing plan and campaign for our future takeover. Its all about multitasking and strategics.

Who are some of your favorite NC artist and models and who would you like to work with in the near future? Man, now you’re going to have me name mad people, and if I forget someone they’re going to feel some type of way. But, just to name a few: Ashley Mar shell, Smitarosa, Lava Izzo, Ciroc Pop, Breed, Shelly B, State Da Truth, Bug-Z Seagle, Nina Brown, Kera Jo, Ladi Pink, and so many more NC is full of talented artists. As far as who I’d like to work with in the future, I’d say Missy Elliott, PitBull, Rihanna, Wisin y Yandel, Cassie and a few others.

Is there anything in particular you dig when looking for inspiration? Before I go any further, I’d like to state my inspiration is my beautiful daughter, Shamya Rene. She’s what drives me to keep pushing. As far as looking for inspiration, I don’t ‘look’ for it, I feel it. A beat would play and stir a certain feeling, next thing you know I’m writing. There are also times when I’m going through something or a hardship and I feel people can relate so I convert my feelings and experiences into a track.

What is the sexiest thing that comes to mind when I say LuMi Naughty? LuMi being Naughty.

Tell us how we can connect with you on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. Below are my links, thank you so much for having me and THANK YOU TO ALL MY SUPPORTERS. Stay tuned because its always ”CALM BEFORE THE STORM” FOLLOW YA GIRL! www.reverbnation.com/luminaughty, www.luminaughtyhiphop.com, www.instagram.com/luminaughty, www.twitter.com/luminaughty1, www.modelmayhem.com/luminaughty, www.youtube.com/LuMiNaughtyTV, www.facebook.com/ItzLuMiBaby.

Listen to “Electechnology” by LuMi Naughty below:

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