Music truly is a window to the soul.
A true visionary in every sense of the word, Dr. Mamie Smith has spent her life using music to inspire, teach, and heal.
A Detroit-based author, educator, and musician, Dr. Smith’s journey has been marked by a blend of creativity, resilience, and an unshakeable dedication to uplifting others. Also an accomplished author, Smith’s first book, “The Unfolding of a Rose,” was published after the heartbreaking loss of her daughter, eventually becoming a guide for readers grappling with grief.
Subsequent works (both literary and musical) continued to prove that no matter the medium, Smith consistently touches the hearts of her contemporaries with her personal and empathetic approach to the human condition.
With a background in classical music, Dr. Smith’s credentials reflect her dedication: a Bachelor’s in Music from Austin Peay State University, followed by advanced degrees from Wayne State University. Her decades-long career in vocal education saw her teaching children across the U.S. and in Japan. She shaped lives through music and values like hard work, discipline, and responsibility, attributes she considers essential for a meaningful life.
Dr. Smith recorded her first CD at the twilight of her career, proving that it’s never too late to pursue one’s dreams. To that end, one of her latest releases, a touching rendition of the classic “You Raise Me Up,” sees the esteemed Dr. return to familiar territory. Having turned to classical music in times of turmoil, both inner and external, Smith looks to share some of that healing power with listeners.
Over a simple yet elegant instrumental performance, Smith’s vocal performance belies the experience of someone who intricately understands this art form from a technical level. Smith’s passion is evident and shines through in every note, making for a touching release befitting someone who’s dedicated so much to music and the healing power it brings.
For Dr. Smith, music remains both a balm for the soul and a bridge between hearts, and through her work, she continues to leave a legacy as powerful as any melody.
Whenever you’re ready, tap in and stream Dr. Mamie Smith’s release “You Raise Me Up” on all major streaming platforms.
We loved “You Raise Me Up” it’s so awesome that you’re still fulfilling your dreams; it inspires us all. We wanted to ask, what made you choose this particular song for today? Does it have some special meaning to you?
I chose "You Raise Me Up" because it reaches the core of my being and soothes the doubts, fears, and disheartening voices that scream "failure" and discouragement. It urges, "Try one more time" or "I know it's hard, but you can do it!" Life throws many challenges at us, but the song tells me that "the stormy seas" can be crossed, and the mountain tops can be reached.
In 2005, my daughter passed away from breast cancer, and for many days, I struggled to survive emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. The lyrics of the song lifted me above guilt, pain, and grief, and I was able to fight another day.
What’s your biggest source of motivation when you make your music, and as an extension of that, what does music mean to you?
When making music, my biggest source of motivation is song lyrics. They tell a story. Sometimes, the story is about love, joy, peace, pain, or suffering. Whatever it may be, my job as a vocalist is to communicate that to the listener. Often, I focus on a similar experience the song suggests and become the person in the story. It's not acting, it's connecting!
Music is an art that eliminates mercilessness, cruelty, and disdain. It deals with feelings. That is why it is essential to have music education in public schools. I believe much of the lack of compassion in society today stems from the lack of ability to deal with our feelings. What does music mean to me? It is the spark that illuminates man's humanity to man.
As someone who devoted so much of your life to music and connecting people in general, what goals or changes do you want to achieve, or do you hope you’ve achieved through your music?
I hope my music gives people a sense of joy and determination--the ability to recognize that if you "feel it," you can achieve it. Unlike the sciences, music connects us to higher levels of thought, breaks down barriers, and generates a sense of identity. At an early age, I taught myself to play the piano, sold eggs to pay for music lessons, and explored the "harmonies and melodies of life" for excitement and growth. I believe there is nothing like music...what would the world be like... without it?
What’s your fondest music-related memory?
My fondest music-related memory dates back to high school. The only reason the choir director allowed me to join the chorus was because I learned the music quickly and played the piano. No one thought I could sing! Even though my piano skills were very limited, college saw me choosing piano as a major.
The degree I sought was a music performance degree. The curriculum demanded all piano majors study private voice for two years. Each voice student had to prepare a vocal composition and perform it in front of the class. I practiced and practiced, but most of the rehearsals saw me singing as I plucked out the melody on the piano. Therefore, I was not accustomed to singing with the accompaniment of my vocal selection.
So, during the performance, every time the accompanist played with me, I sang off-key. It was a disaster! To make matters worse, the class roared with laughter. I wanted the floor to open up and swallow me!
Additionally, all piano students had to sing in what was called "the vesper choir." As time went on, I was determined to sound better. One day, Dr. Henry, Head of the Music Department, announced he was placing me in "the concert choir!" I wasn't sure what that meant, but I was overjoyed. As it turned out, that choir traveled across the country and represented the college.
Later that year, my major was changed from piano to voice. And...by junior year, I was back up for the best soprano in the school. And...I became one of Dr. Henry's vocal students...he only worked with the best!
What’s next for you, Dr. Smith, and is there anything you’d like to say to your listeners?
What's next? I will continue marketing my music worldwide, but I do not see myself releasing another CD or album.
I partner with a business called "Meta Rose Art & Business" that works with musicians as a booking and marketing agency. That is so fun! I am also writing my fourth book (I haven't titled it yet), will continue interviewing people on the "Talk to the Author with Dr. Mamie Smith" radio show, and enjoy life.
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