Tink Talks Female Empowerment, Self-Reflection & New Music [Interview]

Multi-faceted R'n'B singer and rapper Tink has returned to the sphere with her latest album ‘Thanks 4 Nothing’, alongside stunning visuals for tracks ‘Gangsta’s Paradise’ and ‘Save Your Soul’ both embodying a brand new era in the singer’s music journey.

Almost 10 years into her career, Tink has racked up a healthy discography and collaborated with some of the biggest artists in the world including 2 Chainz, Muni Long, and Davido. The Chicago-born singer initially broke out into the scene with critically acclaimed hits like ‘Treat You Like Somebody’, ‘Ratchet Commandments’, and Million which samples the classic Aaliyah hit, One in a Million. Continuing from her plethora of heartfelt singles, EPs, and albums, Tink is back to showcase her infamous R’n’B vocals and lyricism.

Once again detailing Tink’s inner thoughts on Love, relationships, and heartbreak ‘Thanks 4 Nothing’ includes 14 impressive tracks including the melodically led single ‘Fake Love’ and soothing but self-deprecating track ‘Toxic’, these are two singles that have been well received across the world. The album features one other artist and that's Ty Dolla Sign, who delivers his signature vocals on ‘Let Down My Guard’, seamlessly breaking up the album, ‘Thanks 4 Nothing’ which is an ode to female empowerment, vulnerability, and unguarded emotions.

How would you say your music has evolved over the years?

My music has evolved with me every year. My music is defining my sound. Creating music from a young age has allowed me to explore rap and R&B as it's changing. I've been able to be at the forefront, especially being from Chicago there are so many icons I look up to and that have inspired me as my sound has elevated.

Who were the female musicians that you looked up to growing up?

Of course, Lauryn Hill was a major inspiration, the way she mixes genres through singing and rapping is so impressive. On that same front - I love Beyonce, Destiny's Child, and Keyshia Cole. They have all given me that strong base on staying true to where I came from.

What inspires your music?

The pandemic allowed me to slow down and dive into my inspirations. The last three years have given me the space to innovate a new frontier for the R&B girls. I'm creating more, I'm freer - less afraid, and for my most recent projects Thanks 4 Nothing & Pillow Talk I was able to collaborate with some of my favourite artists Ty Dolla $ign, Russ, and Yung Bleu, Muni Long, all of which have helped stretch my artistry tremendously.

What are some of the challenges you have faced as a woman in the music industry?

I think women are often made to work against each other instead of working together, collaborating, and uplifting. I am someone that has been making music for a while, as a result of that I had to learn from the women around me to succeed.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

I would say listen to your inner voice, stay consistent, stay focused, and keep going. I think I have continued to grow because of my consistency in the game.

Who are the female musicians that inspire you today?

Today I am inspired by Jhene Aiko, Doechii, and classic Tink. I still get inspired listening to my older mixtapes, especially Winter's Diary there is a lot of motivation in all of those projects.

Tell me about your album Thanks 4 Nothing:

I wrote this album specifically for single ladies, I wanted to give the girls a set of songs to play after the breakup. This is for anyone reclaiming their time. Reclaiming their joy. Reclaiming their Sometimes we have to appreciate the good with the bad, hence Thanks 4 Nothing.

What can we expect from Tink in the future?

You can expect a lot more from me in the future. I just wrapped up my first headline tour, so definitely going to be working on more music, fan interactions, and a few surprises up my sleeve.

Stream 'Thanks 4 Nothing' now!