A native of Chocolate City, on the rise R&B starlet Summer Dennis has returned with new music, and major plans for the 2025 season and beyond…
Let’s hop right into this single / video, "SO UNNECESSARY," featuring Gene Noble. Tell me about this particular track — How did it come to fruition?
This song was recorded alongside several others in Nashville with Sam Ashworth and Ron Gilmore in 2023. I love the song, but when we started thinking about potential features I knew I wanted Gene on it. He agreed to do the feature after I opened for him at The Birchmere. We reached out, and he kept his word, which I’m so happy about.
How does "SO UNNECESSARY" differ from or compare to previous SUMMER DENNIS entries?
I’m definitely a multi-genre artist. What’s funny about this song is that I’ve written very strong stories about women that aren’t necessarily about love, but this one sounds like a love song. It’s actually about toxicity, and being in a situationship.
As a songwriter, where do you draw inspiration from when you sit down to pen your lyrics?
I love telling real stories about women. I’ve been singing ballads and Christian music my entire life, and now I’m able to tell real stories about women that aren’t centered around men. That’s the joy I find in songwriting—it’s a fun challenge. I’m really lucky that Gene stepped up and wrote such an emotionally intelligent verse to complement my song.
Tell me about your inception into music — When did you first become interested in it, and how did it all begin for SUMMER DENNIS?
I’m Caribbean, so you already know the vibes. There was always a lot of activity and studying from the time I was a baby. I sang with my mom on the praise team. I almost knew how to sing before I could even speak. I took a bunch of lessons, joined a gospel choir, and just kept going. Music has always been my greatest love, and it’s what I’ve always wanted to do. Seven years ago, I joined my business partner’s band, and we both had songs we wanted to pursue. So we decided to make it happen, and here we are today.
You’re from Washington, D.C., right? Growing up in the "DMV," who did you consider your strongest musical influences?
I was absolutely in love with Whitney Houston and Lauryn Hill growing up. I wasn’t allowed to listen to much secular music, but my parents had me listening to a lot of gospel and jazz. I used to sneak Missy Elliott, and I love her. I also really love Earth, Wind & Fire—that’s my father’s favorite group.
How would you describe or define the style of music that you create and perform?
I’m definitely a multi-genre artist. Being Jamaican, I’d say my music is influenced by the diaspora. All music originates from Africa, and I’m influenced by all of it.
Switching gears, what exactly do you want people to get from your music?
I want people to hear something that feels good. I want women to hear real stories about themselves. I want people to have an amazing sonic experience every time they hear me sing.
If you could collaborate with any artist, living or dead, who would it be and why?
Whitney Houston, of course! And right now, I really want to do a song with Megan Thee Stallion. I love Meg and everything she stands for. I’d love to make a fun bop with her.
If you could play any venue in the world, which one would you choose and why?
Ever since I saw Luther Vandross walk by that mic at Wembley Stadium, I’ve wanted to sing there. It’s a huge dream of mine to sell out a legendary stadium. I don’t know why I can’t let it go, but I’m still dreaming that dream.
On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of R&B?
I’m often saddened by the state of music in general, but it encourages me that people seem to be thirsting for live voices again. It was a little crazy during the pandemic when everyone had an interface and a camera, and we had to battle through short-form viral trends to get any of our music heard at all. On top of that, actual artists like me had to compete with inexperienced short-form content influencers for stage time, which really watered down the quality of live music. I think people are tired of spending money on nonsense and are ready to see real talent again.
What do you feel has been and will continue to be the key to your longevity?
I literally just never quit. I’m here because I don’t stop, no matter what happens. It’s very difficult and expensive to be in this industry, but I’ve made it my priority to find a way. Every day I wake up, my goal is to sing and make music.
Do you have any other aspirations outside of music?
I want to own properties and have my own wig brand!
To date, what has been your biggest career moment(s), at least thus far?
BET premiering this video was a dream come true.
What’s an average day like for you?
Interviews, dance rehearsals, warm-ups, and, of course, content, content, content!
How do you interact with and respond to fans?
I’m working on it! I try my best with social media.
What’s your favorite part about this line of work? Your least favorite? And why?
Honestly, viral short-form content is just terrible. I think it’s ruined the industry, but I can’t stay away from it. My favorite part is live performances with a band, but short-form content has taken away from that experience.
What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?
Find an investor immediately! It’s so expensive, oh my god.
Looking ahead, where do you see yourself in five or even ten years?
Performing in a stadium!
What’s next for you, SUMMER?
I’m dropping a lot of music this year, and I’m hoping we can get the public ready for a full project.
Is there anything I left out or forgot to mention?
Even in the face of racism, I never gave up. I was a gymnast for years and wasn’t allowed to show my Afro or dance the way I wanted, but I stayed true to myself. I want everyone to have that same attitude toward their hopes and dreams. Never give up, no matter what!
