7Qs… A peek inside the world of Sweet India.Arie:

We’ve always been inspired by your style – describe it in 3 words.
Simple, Colorful, and Natural

You are very gifted, what was the journey that lead to your music career?
I was inspired by artists growing up, especially my Mom [Simpson] a singer, songwriter and visual artist. Also, growing up with my Brother J’on, an IT professional and my Father, [Ralph Simpson] was a professional basketball player. Our house was full of art, music, and crazy mad love!

How does your music and personal style intertwine?
My Mom has always been a designer which allowed me to have whatever I wanted, so I always looked different than all the other girls in school, which allowed me to be creative with my look and my music. My music allowed me to be creative and open my mind to all the incredible possibilities. My music is part of my style and my style is part of my music.

Aside from music, what other creative outlets do you dream of exploring?
I studied jewelry making at SCAD (Savannah School of Art and Design). I do a little bit of creative drawing and painting. Some of the other things I’m working on is writing in my journals, which may become a book someday.

Who is your favorite designer & why?
NO Doubt – My Mom!  My Mom’s work is clean and incredibly creative. She not only designs it, she makes everything! My Mom’s work allows me to look like me! One of my favorite stores is located in South Africa and has a lot of original designs, it’s called Sun Goddess! I LOVE THAT STORE!

You always appear so comfortable with who you are. What’s your advice to ASOP Girls seeking confidence & self acceptance?
I’m not always totally comfortable with myself, but what I have decided is even if you feel fear, do it anyway! Nobody can be you better then you can! You have to teach yourself to love yourself. Speak sweetly and kindly to yourself! Because words have POWER!

What new projects are you working on for 2009?
Just dropped my fourth album – Testimony Vol. 2 Love & Politics. I’ve been blessed to do the theme song for Good Morning America which you will hear every morning as GMA starts! I hope to do more personal projects that help young people find their voice and there dreams!