Xscape Talks Platinum Single, Balancing Motherhood, And Kicking Off Their Summer Tour Without Exiled Group Member LaTocha Scott [Exclusive] - Page 2

You’re kicking off your summer tour series at the Stockbridge Amphitheater in Georgia. What does performing in your home state mean to you at this point in your career?

Tamika Scott: It means a lot to us. We get a chance to perform in front of our family, our friends, and of course, our fans. It’s always a little extra special when we perform at home because it’s a reminder of our roots. There’s no place like home.

Since your early days with So So Def and Jermaine Dupri, Xscape has been deeply rooted in Atlanta’s music scene. How do you feel about the evolution of the Atlanta sound?

Kandi: Atlanta has always been a major player in the music industry. They used to call it the “Motown of the South” because it’s where so many big labels, like LaFace Records and So So Def, Dallas Austin’s label, Organized Noise and more were based. Those labels helped push R&B and hip-hop forward in the ’90s. Today, Atlanta is still killing it, especially in the hip-hop scene. So many highly successful people in music are here, and we’re proud to be a part of it.

What do you think of the new Atlanta sound with younger artists? Are you following the trends like trap music?

Kandi: Well, Trap Music was huge in the early 2000s, and it has evolved into something different now. I think it’s dope how the sound is always changing and adapting. The younger generation is bringing a fresh twist to it. It’s exciting to see how they’re shaping the sound of music.

Xscape has faced highs and lows, but you’re still standing strong as the queens of R&B. What keeps you united and motivated after all these years?

Kandi: The fans keep us motivated, for sure. We’re just blessed to have this kind of longevity in the business. Not everyone gets to experience this. We’re more appreciative of everything now than we were when we were younger. When we were kids, we didn’t understand the hard work that went into it, but now, we know things just don’t come easy. It’s amazing to be able to headline shows and perform in arenas. We’re excited every time we get the chance to do it.

Tamika: What’s even more special is that our kids get to witness our legacy. They’re on the road with us, and they’re seeing firsthand what we’ve built. It’s incredible for them to experience this while we’re still here creating it.

You ladies have performed as a trio for a while now. Tamika, how has it been performing without your sister, LaTocha Scott?

Tamika: In the beginning it was hard because we’ve always been a four-member group. When LaTocha decided to pursue her solo career, we decided to continue the legacy, so we had to figure out how to move forward. And that’s one thing that’s good about Xscape: we all can lead. So, if I miss a show, they’re going to sing down. If anyone misses a show, you’re still going to have that Xscape sound. So, we were blessed to be all lead singers – and that sets us apart and allows us to escape. We can go on with our without an extra person.

Where does your relationship with your sister LaTocha stand right now?

Tamika: I’m just praying, waiting for God to work things out in His timing – not mine.