Today we’d like to introduce you to Tolivia
Hi Tolivia , so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Music has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I grew up in Prince George’s County, Maryland, surrounded by a rich musical heritage, and was deeply inspired by my grandmother, who was a gospel singer. I started singing in choirs at a young age, which led me to attend Suitland High School’s Visual and Performing Arts (VPA) program, where I received classical training and vocal lessons. That foundation earned me a scholarship to Cleveland State University, where I earned my Bachelor of Music in Voice Performance.
Over the years, I’ve drawn inspiration from legends like Luther Vandross, Anita Baker, Beyonce, Jazmine Sullivan, D’Angelo and Erykah Badu, blending elements of R&B, Neo-Soul, and experimental jazz into my own sound.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but it’s been humbling and redirecting in ways I didn’t expect. One of the biggest shifts was stepping away from a sister singing duo – because when your mid-20s hit, relationships and life transitions force you to reassess everything. After graduating college, I went through a period of post-grad depression, questioning whether my dream was even worth pursuing, especially if I had to do it alone.
I also struggled with self-doubt – being classically trained but wanting to be a soulful R&B artist. Was I Neo-Soul? Where did I fit? I put so much pressure on myself to define my sound that it became more of a roadblock than a creative exploration.
Therapy helped me see that my journey has always been unfolding in its own beautiful way. I just had to believe in it – and in myself, first.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
What sets me apart is the versatility and depth of my voice. I have a wide vocal range, spanning from Soprano 2 to Mezzo-Soprano, which allows me to move effortlessly between classical repertoire, R&B/Soul, and jazz ballads. My ability to improvise in the moment brings a unique energy to my performances, keeping them fresh and deeply expressive. I’m known for my rich alto tone in my community choir, but I don’t stay in one lane – I go for the soprano solos, too. My passion for music isn’t just about singing; it’s about storytelling, connection, and creating an experience that lingers long after the last note.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
My advice is to embrace the process and focus on growth. Success isn’t just about big milestones; it’s about the small, consistent steps – like rehearsing until you feel confident, re-doing the video post because the first attempt felt forced, and staying true to your unique sound. Don’t fear putting yourself out there, whether that’s on social media or local stages. And remember, some people dedicated to their craft for 20 years only get their viral moment later, but you should never bank on that. Preparation, persistence, and authenticity are your greatest tools.
Trust your journey and the definition of success is enough, then results will follow.
Pricing:
- Performance rates start at $300 an hour
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.toliviasings.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toliviasings/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/toliviasings
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@toliviasings
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@toliviasings
Image Credits
Travel – Athina (graphic designer on Fiverr)
White and green outfit photographer – CJ Byrd Media
Balanced & True – Athina (graphic designer on Fiverr)
Love Switch EP – pink dress photo credit goes to CJ Byrd Media ; mixtape cover as a whole, Sadgrapher (graphic designer on Fiverr)
