Tameka Armstrong, known by her stage name Comai, with her distinct originality has captured the attention of many; while, simultaneously making a significant impact early in her singing career. While there are elements of jazz in her phrasing – sultry shades of great vocalists like Phyllis Hyman and Sarah Vaughan; replete with a delivery that has often been compared to the likes of Mary J. Blige and Erykah Badu.
Born the oldest child of three girls in Indianapolis, IN, Comai learned the value of patience at a young age. Comai's mother remembers when she was born, instead of crying it sounded like she was singing or holding a note. Raised in a single parent home, Comai was strongly influenced and inspired by her mother’s gospel background. "My mother is so strong and I have always admired her for her strength; and, showing me that by sacrifice and being level-headed there are infinite possibilities," recalls Comai. "I realized that I needed to make the most of my time here on earth. I want to utilize all of my God-given talents and give back in a way that others can benefit."
At the age of 2 Comai and her family relocated to Nashville, TN, where she later attended the Nashville School of Arts. When she was 9 yrs. old she began writing music and trying to record on her karaoke machine; and, at the age of 12 she had the opportunity to record a song called "Since You've Been Gone". While attending the Nashville School of Arts Comai learned the art of tap dancing; and, later went on to form a dance group with her cousins called "Dimes Inc.". The group danced for Pearl Cohn for 2 1/2 yrs. clear about her love for music and singing, Comai began looking for local places in Nashville to perform. A few of the various venues included: Martinis, Level 88, Out of Bounds, and Club Sensations. Comai also had a supporting role in the play "Gorgeous" directed by Candy Robins.
Comai has had the opportunity to work with producers such as Crooked Eye Q, LiL Myron and Dirty Boy Ent. She has opened for the SOS Band, Force MD'S, Kimea, Terry Cummings, VT, Fa Sho, Bone Crusher and Angie Stone; just to name a few. One of her songs "Hills”; is used in the movie "Consequences" which was directed by James D. Jackson and Jeff Bazil.
Comai is all at once smart, sassy, insightful and very real. She brings her own experiences and observations on life and love with vivid storytelling imagery to her music. "I put sweat and tears into what I do; my voice and my lyrics. I'm not doing this just to sell records, I want to make history," says Comai. "I'm a multi-faceted artist. I sing, write music, dance, act and model."
Those "facets' are illustrated on an upcoming debut album which Comai describes as "honest, with a particular point of view." "Fearless embodies my state of mind right now. I'm fearless of being honest in my songwriting and musically not afraid to try different things." Honing her craft and developing a distinctive writing style, she's creating an album that is both soul-satisfying and accessible; a record that's sure to win her a solid following with music buyers who like their music uninhibited and always real.
