User:Semaj Collins-Douglas

“It’s music that’s a little left of center.”                                              -Semaj, 2007

Semaj rightfully names their website semajmusic.com, because upon listening to it, you realize that its self-title best describes it – a raw, yet innovative musical journey influenced by past and present hip hop and soul predecessors, infused with poignant messages that gives a universal voice to an array of messages. Meaning “One Society” in Hindi, Semaj looks to emerge as a voice that speaks universally to its audience, with intentions to spread self-identity and authenticity.

A Chicago born and New Orleans bred balladeerist, Semaj leads a 7-piece band that conjures up the elements of some of her influences, such as Queen Latifah, MC Lyte, Lauryn Hill and Jill Scott. Combined with an agility to perform by combining an acting and spoken word platform, Semaj’s unique approach to hip-hop, soul and rock will resonate in the palates of connoisseurs alike. From each tragedy and triumph, Semaj’s music exposes itself in rare form, sans the glitz and glamour. A graduate of the University of Illinois-Champlain with a degree in Performance Studies, Semaj’s background includes a stint as director of Rap City on BET, as well as producer and director of a hip-hop project brought to the off-Broadway stage.

“I have a desire to relate to people on a mass level and bring life stories to the forefront,” says Semaj. “I don’t come with complex messages or ideas; they are simple and done to start conversations and dialogues between people.”

Like her predecessors, it’s extremely important for Semaj to bring messages to the masses on an artistic level that positively represents black women on a larger scale. She credits the ‘90’s movement, her upbringing in both New Orleans and Chicago, and her daily on goings with love and relationships as being part of her regime for influential music. Semaj’s lyrics repeatedly challenge its listeners—to listen, and to feel, while representing funky intelligence. She continues to focus on the release of her Fall 2007 album, affectionately titled Relatable, as well as performing in upcoming shows in New York City and throughout the United States. For more information on Semaj, please visit