From Gospel to Blues: The Soulful Journey of Miss Freddye

Cogito March 5, 2023 4 min read 0

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As Pittsburgh’s “Lady Of The Blues,” Miss Freddye keeps the blues alive in her hometown. Miss Freddye
began singing in church at a young age. The influences of church and her mother’s love of blues music,
gave Miss Freddye the foundation to venture in the world of blues music in 1996. She joined BMW (Blues
Music Works) under the direction Of “Big” Al Leavitt.

In 2002, Miss Freddye went on to form Blue Faze and several years later, Miss Freddye started two
bands, Miss Freddye’s Blues Band (electric blues) and Miss Freddye’s Homecookin Band, (acoustic blues,
classic rock, gospel.) Miss Freddye’s influences include  Koko Taylor, Etta James, Billie Holiday, Sarah
Vaughn, Big Mama Thornton, Bessie Smith, and “Big” Al Leavitt.

Her charity works include: Relay for Life American Cancer Society, Pink Day in Leechburg, PA for Breast
Cancer Research Foundation, Sean Carney’s Blues For A Cure, Local VFWs and American Legions, Toys
for tots, homeless veterans, Band Together Pittsburgh, and Sing to Stop domestic violence.  
 
She has won past blues competitions; 2008 West Virginia Blues Society for Best Blues and 2012 Blues
Society Of Western PA Best Duo/Solo Act.
 
In 2014, Miss Freddye was awarded the Star Award from the Pittsburgh VA Medical Center for her work
with veterans. She was awarded the 2015 Freedom From Silence Award from the Center For Victims.
Miss Freddye has won in the Iron City Rocks Awards for Best Blues Band in 2016, 2017, and 2019. Her
self-released CD, “Lady Of The Blues” won for Best Album in 2017.

In 2018, Miss Freddye was nominated for two Blues Foundation Awards, one for Best Emerging Artist CD
and The Koko Taylor Traditional Blues Female.
Her latest single, “Something To Believe In” is from her forthcoming gospel/roots release, topped the
international iTunes charts.

Here is a transcript from our interview with Miss Freddye

1. Hi Miss Freddye! It’s quite an honor to talk to you today. What’s
   new in your world?
   Going back in the studio to finish up my next single and my next album!
   
   
2. You’re known as both a gospel and blues singer. How are the two?
   styles similar, and how are they different?
   I would say blues is a spinoff from gospel. Both can be slow or upbeat. Blues talks about the ills of life, the thrill of it all, how bad and sometimes how good it can be!
   Gospel is a way to contact with God. It can be an asking, a need, a plea to be given a chance to celebrate God. It’s more religious base.
   
3. What do you feel are your strengths as a singer?
   Well, since I had stayed vocal lessons 2-3 years ago, first time ever, my mechanics of singing has
   improved! This has given me the confidence to bring music to audiences and to reach deep within to neable to contact.
   
4. How would your bandmates describe you?
   HA! Well, I have two bands. Shall we start with the Blues band. They may say I’m passionate, I’m a diva, I’m strong, and vocal! The other band may say I’m passionate, I’m strong willed, and I’m fun!
   
5. What motivates you to make music?
   That’s easy….it’s a calling for me. I see how the music I sing affects the audience along with the
   interactions. Audiences want to feel good, they want some kind connection. When, the bands see this, the music is just right. This is my motivation, my reason for doing what I do!
   
6. You’ve had many high points in your career, so far. What was the biggest thing that has happened, and how did it make you feel?
   Yes, I have! When I was nominated for two blues music awards! I felt like I had just hit the lottery! I was thrilled and I was a little scared. You see this was my first ever!
   
7. We’ve heard about a new gospel album that you’re preparing for release. When do you think you’ll have that ready?
   Don’t have an official date yet.
   
8. Tell me about your favorite performance in your career?
   Honestly, performing at my local children’s hospital. It is such a joy to see the kids and their families
   smile and sometimes participate in my performances! We have fun!
   
9. What’s the best piece of advice another musician ever gave you?
   Oh that’s easy! “Always stay true to yourself cause you will find no other like you!”.
   
   
10. What’s up next for you?
    Working on going to Europe, either 2023 or 2024! Stay tuned!
    
    
11. Any words of advice or last words for your fans?
    Enjoy the music. Always be sure to live your life to the fullest. I appreciate my fans for their continued support and love of the music I do!