TRI-NI-TEE 5:7 RETURNS (AND MATTHEW KNOWLES HAS THEIR BACKS)

TRI-NI-TEE 5:7 INTERVIEW: This hot trio is on the rise again and Matthew Knowles has their backs; Spirit Rising Music artists are finally content

Tri-ni-tee 5:7 is back, and as bold and beautiful as ever. The epitome of their name (based on the Holy Tri-ni-tee), they remain one in the spirit, business and their craft. Adrian, Chenelle and Angel, are the vocal triune that make up Tri-ni-tee 5:7. Arriving on the scene with a triple dose of holy glam, ear-snatching vocals and synchronized choreography the trio has literally been through the storm and rain. New Orleans natives, Chenelle and Angel and their families were relocated to Manhattan Beach, CA after Hurricane Katrina consumed their belongings. Considering this trial, they are especially thankful to be celebrating ten years in the music business with their September 18 debut release on Spirit Rising Music (Matthew Knowles' gospel label), entitled T57. Described as their very DNA, T57 represents their maturity and evolution as artists.
The 3 platinum-selling sirens penned most of the songs on the project making it truly personal ( although there are other writers such as Solange Knowles).

T57 duplicates the edginess that made Trin-i-tee 5:7 the envy of mainstream girl groups when they started in the 90s. The musical elements of R&B, soul, hip hop and gospel define twelve unforgettable tracks dealing with everyday situations. On teh otehr hand, The former Gospocentric artists put their own touch on the Douglas Miller classic "My Soul Is Anchored" as a reflection on their real life experience with an untamed tempest.

The release date shifted several times because they each had to complete the Matthew Knowles Boot Camp. It's an old school approach to artist development and if Mr. Knowles doesn't feel an artist is polished in all required areas, the project is shelved. With the security they feel under the leadership of a music mogul, the ladies have the utmost respect for Knowles and work hard ot meet his standards.

Adrian (later joined by Chenelle) catches us up on why its been four years since we've heard from them and where they are in their careers today.

People loved the performance of your new song "Listen" (an upbeat New Orleans inspired song) at GMWA Nationals.

We had a great time and we got a lot of great feedback from that. "Listen" is charged.

Congratulations on your international recognition.

(Adrian speaks about being the recipients of a MAJA. MAJA is a version of the word major and is the Stellar awards equivalent in Canada).

We're branching out further---it keeps coming into fruition. . .

The global vision that we had for ourselves is the complement to the vision that Matthew had all along.

You speak as entreprenuers frequently. Why are you so focused on the "business" of the music business?

Because ultimately you will end up with nothing if you do not. Any industry requires that you are industrious.

How does your own money -- literally investing in yourselves -- come into play when you are in between projects with a label?

There is something that all artists need to know: you have to work for your own success.

We started Trius--our own collective company-- to focus on current relevant education, digital mentorship, hands on ad studying. The key is balance when art and commerce meet. It's the same principle in The Bible. Start out on the milk then get to he meat of the Word. You have to qualify at the table of negotioation. You have to build whatever you invest in. The giirls have suported me in spearheaded business endeavors.

Coming out of Huricane Katrina, what did you take from that experience?

When you've been humbled you learn the importance of planning, who's going to be there for you in the most trying times. Chanelle just moved back home just last month. Angel's family also endured the storm. We've already survived, now we can thrive. You never know what's going to happen.

You don't have to prove anyting to people and charity begins at home. We started the Angel of Hope campaign. This taught us to be prepared. . . We stayed in our wonderful FEMA trailers and served in the thrift stores. Because people need people. nothing made any sense. We are so thankful.

Why is image important in the gospel industry?

You have to be balanced in your understanding. God's artistry is beautiful.
Image is important in life and there's nothing wrong with it. We are made in God's image. Your exterior can not be a mask for your interior. . . .An ugly heart makes a very ugly person. Your beauty is no excuse to mistreat people.

Health is very important. If you want to be around you have to be a part of that. . . .

Why did your release date change a few times?

We went to the Matthew Knowles Boot Camp.

Really, what does that entail?

You can not release a project until each portion is completed. Its conditoning to get you ready for stage production, physical fitness, media and vocals to be able to focus on yourself. You are as good as your health.

Are any of you married or have children?

We're not married and don't have any children, although we would like to at some point. Make sure you get to a certain level in your career first and it makes it lot easier when you do.

And your look comes from Mrs. Knowles, who is a fashio designer right?

Mrs. Tina loves fashion. Loves enhanicing a persns best featurws. SHe brings out a diverse translations of our group.

Have you ever met Beyonce or plan to work with her? We've met all the girls actually. Their a family first. We've had dinner at their home and we have had nothing but the best time with them. Matthew is very passionate abbout our group being out there. He really believes in us and you feel it. Winning is the only option. ,. .

How do you feel about being refered to as "The Destiny Child of Gospel"?

What people have ot know, is we know these ladies personally abut the beautiful thing is he saw a solid grouop and he didn;t have to much work. We're certianly open to collabo in the future.

Chenelle adds:

In additon I think personally its a wonderful compliment with us knowing who they are... These are girls who are humatitarians, they contribute to their home church, helping to create a haven for children with HIV. If you compare us with spmeone who is #1 in ther game, record breaking, and invlolved in their community it's a huge compliment.

Is there anything you'd like to add that have not covered?

Adrian: You will never peak iuntil you are doing what you are passionate baout and that's something the girls and I are commited to. We are 3 that become one and we feel so humble all the time.

Chenelle: We've gotta be strong everytime we hit the stage; there's nohing about us that can be average; we are passionate --we are an exprience. You're not going to get 3 pretty girls who can sing really nice. . .

Stay connected to T57 at www.trinitee57.com.

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About the Author:
News and gospel entertainment reporter.