TAMARA DOS SANTOS INTERVIEW: With roots in Portugal and Angola, and now based in South London, Tamara is rapidly establishing herself as one of the most promising voices in contemporary R&B. Her distinctive blend of soulful, dimensional music, combined with Portuguese and Angolan influences are all crafted independently by Tamara, and released on her own terms. Her ability to incorporate both English and Portuguese lyrics into her music adds a personal touch that reflects her multicultural heritage.
Tell me something unique about your creative process
I don’t necessarily believe I have a unique creative process per se. I like to be as true to my emotions and be able to tell a story or get across a message. What I find fun is envisioning a music video behind what I want to say which helps convey my ideas better.
Which song of yours would you like people to hear first?
Well I actually just released a single called ‘I’m So Over You’. This single is about setting a boundary and reminding a persistent ex that the relationship is officially over.
What inspired you to make that song?
I find that at times, people don’t really understand that the time to make things work is in the present. And with that, you have to appreciate and value your partner before it’s too late. I wrote this as a reminder of self worth and never being afraid to walk away.
What’s the most vulnerable you’ve allowed yourself to be when writing/making music?
I think only now am I allowing myself to be a lot more intentional with my vulnerability when writing. It all pretty much started with ‘J’s Interlude’. That was the first single I allowed myself to write from a place of truth and heartbreak. Now with each project I drop, I feel myself tapping into my feelings more intensely.
What’s the best/worst experience you’ve had on stage?
Oooo! Worst? I was in year 8 and I was part of the school talent show. I decided to sing ‘Listen’ by Beyoncé and I was doing a duet. I think I had the second verse and everyone cheered for the girl I was singing with and when it got to my turn I got so nervous and ran off stage. I was so dramatic and even threw the microphone on the floor [laughs].
Best? I guess my sold out headline show last November 2024. It was lit to see people who support singing along to my songs and relating to my experiences.
What is your favourite song to perform?
I love performing all of my songs, but if I had to pick a top favourite I would say ‘Emotional’ with a live band. I really enjoy how it allows me to showcase more of my vocal abilities and bring a different feel to the song. I’m looking forward to singing ‘I’m So Over You’ live as well.
Which artist/song/album made you want to make music?
‘Dangerous’ – Michael Jackson for sure! From ‘Remember the Time’, to ‘Heal the World’, to ‘Will You Be There’ and back again ‘In The Closet’ – Michael gave us diversity in both sound and message. I can only pray that I can one day get to that level of songwriting.
What’s the meaning behind your name?
“Dos Santos” is a Portuguese surname that literally means “of the saints” which is pretty cool if I’m honest. It gives a strong spiritual and cultural roots type vibe.
If you weren’t making music, what would you be doing instead?
I think if I didn’t make music I’d go into acting. I mean not to say I won’t ever do it regardless. But yeah, I guess I’d be auditioning for shows and movies.
What’s success to you?
Success to me is peace and happiness. I think it’s being able to achieve what you aim to achieve, feel at peace within yourself – knowing that you tried your best and you’re happy.
What moment in your life/career forced you to change direction?
I would say a moment that changed the course of my life was when I first performed at my university talent show. That was my first time properly performing live with a guitar and it felt so sweet and magical. I knew that I’d want to perform for the rest of my life.
Where can people keep in touch with you?
Finding me is easy:
Instagram – @fficiallytds
TikTok – @fficiallytds
YouTube – Tamara Dos Santos OFFICIAL
