Brenda K. Starr, the New Jersey-based artist known for her bold, colorful style and chart-topping hits, is preparing for a return to the stage.
With roots in Latin freestyle and salsa, Starr has long been celebrated for her dynamic voice and magnetic stage presence. With the 2025 Prudential North to Shore Festival quickly approaching, Starr is ready to hit the stage and bring her signature “Latin flavor” to fans at the Jersey Shore.
After years of influencing the Latin pop and salsa scenes with songs such as “I Still Believe,” which music icon Mariah Carey later covered, Starr’s return is more than nostalgia - it’s a celebration of cultural pride and musical evolution.
In preparation for the June 21 event at the House of Independence in Asbury Park, Mosaic caught up with Starr to discuss what inspires her, how growing up in the Garden State shaped her art, and what fans can expect in the future:
Q: You’ve had such a dynamic career — from freestyle to salsa. How has your musical journey shaped the way you approach live performances today?
I do a lot more live performances. [I’ve added] a new repertoire with all my old school music, with a live band, so that I can give it that effect because I’ve realized that the authenticity of the dance music is really within the track, but I feel like to make it more of an elaborate show, having the band and singing the songs live makes them feel a little bit more current. It makes me feel more alive too – now that I take my career more seriously!
Q: Your 1987 hit “I Still Believe” remains iconic. How does it feel to see newer generations still connecting with that song?
It’s amazing! And I have a really big surprise coming out for the fans, and I can’t elaborate on it, but I will tell you that it has something to do with my daughter Gianna Isabella, who was on American Idol. I mean, it’s going to be a shocker to the whole music world.
Q: What can fans expect from your upcoming shows — will it be more nostalgic, or are you incorporating new material?
I’ll be adding a DJ and more sets that allow me to bring in a band. In terms of nostalgia, I’ll be mixing the old with the new - so many visuals that’ll knock your socks off.
Q: You were instrumental in bringing Latin crossover music to a broader audience. How do you see the Latin music scene evolving now?
It’s growing. For example, Bad Bunny is taking Latin music above and beyond. He has made an entrance with coming off his urban feel. And I know that at one point, it’s just like all genres of music, there’s a change, and it’s evolving, but with this, he brought Latin music back, and people are starting to pay more attention to it this year. It’s really, really taking, a turn for the best.
Q: What are some of the favorite artists you’ve worked with and or collaborated with?
Well, I discovered Mariah Carey and worked with Lisa Lisa. Two of my favorite collaborations were with Tito Nieves and Victor Manuel.
Q: How do you keep your voice and performance energy so strong after all these years in the business?
Lots of rest. Tea and honey as well. Vocal warmups are so important! Before his passing, my voice coach taught me a lot about keeping my voice strong and healthy. I still use his teaching to this day.
Q: You’ve spoken openly about your Puerto Rican roots. How do your cultural influences show up in your music and live shows?
My mama used to play so many influential Hispanic and Black artists growing up - artists like La Lupe, Donna Summer, Barry White - and every time when we were home. I think when I do my Spanish shows, I’m inspired by Celia Cruz. Trust me, Deion, I always keep a Puerto Rican flag on stage with me to remind me of my heritage.
Q: With decades of experience behind you, what keeps you passionate about touring and connecting with audiences?
Being in the music industry is so stressful, honestly. But what really keeps me inspired is my fans. I see TikToks of kids using my old music in their videos. It’s incredible. Also, staying true to yourself and remaining humble will keep you going.
Q: Talk about your excitement for the Jersey Shore show on the 21st.
Coming back to my old stomping ground is exciting. A lot of my fans are from New Jersey, and I used to always go to the Jersey Shore after nights at Studio 54 and Xenon. Then we would just like literally break out and go to the beach and lay out and go on the rides. This is going to be so surreal for me. This is just another opportunity to show my love for the shore.
The show kicks off at 8 p.m. Tickets are on sale now at houseofindependents.com.
Stories by Deion Johnson
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Deion Johnson may be reached at djohnson@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Instagram at @DeionRJohnson or X @DeionRJohhnson