Fresh off the back of her debut album ‘Mixed Emotions’, rising R&B powerhouse Kim Cruse returns with the music video for ‘It’s Giving’, a bold celebration of style, confidence, and unapologetic womanhood. Since becoming a fan favourite on NBC’s The Voice as a Top 8 finalist under Team John Legend, Cruse has carved out her own lane in modern R&B, blending cinematic soul with a sleek, pop-infused sensibility that feels both timeless and fresh.
With ‘It’s Giving’, Kim doubles down on her main-character energy. The track and its visuals channel Y2K nostalgia with a fearless, affirming message designed to uplift and empower. “It’s all about energy, confidence, and stepping into the version of yourself that doesn’t shrink for anybody,” she explains. That ethos has carried her from her beginnings as “The Velvet Saxophone” in her father’s Texas church, to collaborations with legends like Lalah Hathaway and Monica.
Now, with her star rising fast, Kim Cruse is making her mark as one of R&B’s most exciting new voices. We sat down with her to talk about her origins and influences over the years.
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Can you tell us a bit about your musical background and how you got started in music?
I was born and raised in Woodville, TX, so I like to say I carry that small-town Southern charm with me everywhere I go. It all started in my father’s church, where I was a worship leader. From there, my voice has taken me places I only dreamed about! Formal training in college, singing with gospel legend John P. Kee, touring with Monica for a few shows, and even collaborating with the incomparable Lalah Hathaway.
My journey has been a beautiful mix of gospel roots, R&B, and soul. Winning Terrell Grice’s Race to the Blue on YouTube gave me my first big breakthrough, which led to incredible opportunities like being featured on his album, collaborating with icons, and eventually competing on NBC’s The Voice, where I made it to the Top 8 under John Legend’s team.
Now, with my latest album Mixed Emotions, I feel like I’m standing in my truth more than ever. Whether it’s fun, empowering tracks like “It’s Giving” or raw moments like “Triggered,” my music is me testifying…sharing my heart, my highs, and my healing through every note.
Who are some of your biggest musical influences, both past and present?
My influences are rooted in soul and storytelling. Al Green, Nina Simone, and Ella Fitzgerald taught me about emotion, depth, and elegance in music. Jill Scott and Chrisette Michele showed me how to merge poetry with honesty and create a space where women can be vulnerable and powerful at the same time. Each of them shaped how I approach music…with heart first.
Are there any specific artists or bands that have had a significant impact on your music style or approach?
Yes, absolutely. Al Green’s timeless soul, Nina Simone’s fearlessness, Ella Fitzgerald’s grace, Jill Scott’s authenticity, and Chrisette Michele’s raw honesty all shaped my sound and how I tell my stories. Their artistry reminds me that music isn’t just about singing pretty notes, it’s about truth and connection.
Could you share any memorable moments or experiences that have shaped your musical journey so far?
One of the biggest moments for me was being on The Voice! Working with John Legend as my coach was a dream! It pushed me out of my comfort zone and introduced me to a worldwide audience. But honestly, some of the most memorable moments are smaller: fans telling me how a song of mine helped them through heartbreak, or seeing people light up from songs like “It’s Giving” or “Cry”. Those are the reminders that this gift isn’t just mine…it’s meant to be shared.
How do you express your personal experiences and identity through your music?
For me, music is storytelling. Every lyric, every melody, it’s me pulling from my real life. Whether it’s love, heartbreak, joy, or just those in-between moments. I wear my heart on my sleeve, and my songs reflect that. I like to think my music is a mix of honesty, sass, and soul…kind of like me in real life, lol.
Have you faced any challenges or obstacles as a female musician, and if so, how have you overcome them?
Definitely. Being a woman in this industry means you’re constantly proving yourself. Add to that being plus-sized, and there’s often pressure to be seen as a “sex symbol” instead of being valued for your artistry. I’ve had to stand firm in not letting anyone define me outside of my truth. What keeps me grounded is staying balanced with my faith, surrounding myself with the right people, and reminding myself that my gift is bigger than anyone’s opinion. Confidence, boundaries, and prayer have carried me through.
Are there any particular themes or messages that you aim to convey through your music?
Yes! Empowerment, love, and authenticity. I want people to walk away from my songs feeling seen, understood, or just a little more confident in themselves. With “It’s Giving,” for example, I wanted women especially to feel powerful, affirmed, and celebrated. I always say: if you don’t feel uplifted after listening, then I didn’t do my job right.
Can you talk about your creative process and how you go about writing and producing your music?
My process is super organic and vibe-driven. I love to drive when I need to clear my head! Something about being on the road, soaking in the scenery, helps melodies just come to me naturally. Sometimes a phrase pops in my head, sometimes a beat inspires me, and other times it’s just a melody that won’t let me go. Once I catch the feeling, the lyrics usually pour out like I’m writing in my journal. I also love collaborating and bouncing ideas off others until the vision feels complete.
How do you hope your music will resonate with your audience, especially with other aspiring female musicians?
I hope my music reminds people, especially women, that they’re enough, they’re worthy, and they’re powerful. I want aspiring female musicians to see that it doesn’t matter what you look like, your heart and your music speak louder than any image. Coming from a small town, I want my journey to be proof that your dreams are valid, and that authenticity will always connect. At the end of the day, I want my songs to feel like a big sister cheering you on.
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Watch the new video for ‘It’s Giving’ below.