Normani is on the cover of the latest issue of Billboard, out now.
Here’s what the 22-year-old solo superstar had to say…
On dealing with racism in and outside the industry: “It was a subconscious thing. You think, ‘Why am I the least followed in the group?’ Even if you don’t recognize that you’re paying close attention to it, it takes a toll on your confidence. You worry — is it me? Is it because I’m black? Or am I just not talented?”
On staying friends with her former bandmates: “[Camila Cabello] had an amazing run. I am so proud of everything that she’s doing. She’s nominated for a freaking Grammy! Like, that is amazing. And all from what girl group? Fifth Harmony. Like, that s–t’s fire. And I know that all of us are more than capable of doing that. I’ve come to believe that I am that talented. Before, I didn’t wholeheartedly believe that.”
On building her future empire: “I see myself performing at the Grammys, traveling the world with my family. I want to meet all my fans across the world. There’s so many places I have yet to go to. I’m like, ‘Oh, wow, I really do have fans there. People know who Normani is?’ I want to have the clothing line. Hopefully, I go into fragrance. I want to cross over into film and acting. That’s a victory in my mind. I want to open dance schools.”
For more from Normani, head to Billboard.com.
