The single “Champagne,” how did the pairing of you and French Montana happen?

Charisse Mills: I did not know French at all prior. It was a business deal. Once he met me he was like “you mad cool” I was like can I get my money back? He said no [laughs]. That’s really how that went down, I’m not asking anyone for favors, I’m going to work hard for what I need to do and save my money. How do you think people will invest in you when you don’t invest in yourself?

Was it hard for you two to blend your styles?

Charisse Mills: It wasn’t. I got French to sing a little bit. If you listen to his verses it’s not more of a rappity rap but more of a sing rap. He heard I was from Trinidad and he started to making it me, “Trinidad by the beach mansions or Morocco with the belly dancers.” He really made it a record about us, chilling, having fun, living life like its champagne.

What are key lessons you have learned early on?

Charisse Mills: Hold on to your integrity. A lot of people will promise you the world. A lot of talkers and not a lot of people to act on it. Only do what you need to do and not what you think you have to do. I learned to do what I want and not what everybody else wants. Don’t ever change for anybody.

Going into 2016 what are the goals and hopes for the year?

Charisse Mills: I definitely want to top the charts. It takes some time on that, especially being a new artist. I released this back in August so within six months from that date I want this record on every radio station. My next single drops in spring time and features a well-known artist, I can’t give it away but it will be dope. Even with my business, I have a shape wear company that I run, it’s booming and I’m grateful for that, looking to get it in big stores. And taking care of my family.