If Mr. Wonderful is dead, as vocal powerhouse Summer Dennis boldly proclaims on her 2023 album of the same name, she’s certainly not mourning his loss. Instead, she’s celebrating a new era of feminine independence and confidence, expressed through her soulful voice and soaring R&B melodies. Summer’s lyrics stand out for their unapologetic empowerment, as seen in her new single, “Pink Lotus,” a collaboration with Kaash Paige. One of her favorite lines from the song is, “I won’t be under-sexed or undermined.” Summer reveals, “I’ve never heard a song communicate a woman’s desires so aggressively, and I’m such a fan of that.” She loves how these songs break away from the traditional narrative of centering on a man, allowing women to assert their boundaries, embrace their sexuality, and take pride in their independence.

Summer’s journey to this bold artistic statement has been shaped by her own experiences in the dating scene, where she’s faced the ups and downs of modern romance. Having been both a participant and a listener to her friends’ stories of love-bombing and ghosting, she’s well-acquainted with the complexities of relationships today. These experiences have not only contributed to the symbolic “demise” of Mr. Wonderful but have also deeply influenced the themes of her EP. Through her music, Summer Dennis offers a powerful message of self-respect and empowerment, encouraging women to stand strong in their truth and redefine what it means to be wonderful on their own terms.

Summer reflects on a night that was supposed to be magical, where promises of sushi on a yacht turned into a letdown. “You meet somebody, have the best night ever, and they’re saying all these wonderful things,” she explains. “All we want is for them to follow through. You promised a glamorous evening, and now I’m left feeling disappointed.” As a two-time Wammie Award winner for her 2018 album Second SummerSummer knows firsthand what it means to blaze a trail with authenticity. Her music isn’t just about personal success but about empowering women to find and use their voices in unique ways. “I’m seeing that honesty, transparency, and vulnerability are often denied to people who look like me or live like me,” she says. “I want to change that.”

Growing up, Summer’s world was defined by limited opportunities and the expectations of traditional values. As the daughter of immigrant parents, she found her voice in the church choir of her Maryland hometown, where her powerful vocals and love for soulful music blossomed. Yet, the same environment that nurtured her talent also surrounded her with women who, despite their own strengths, upheld the constraints of patriarchy. “I just realized that I don’t have to live a life that’s chasing that,” Summer reflects, acknowledging the need to break free from the constraints that once seemed inevitable.

Her journey led her to West Virginia University, where she juggled gymnastics with an irresistible pull towards music. Balancing her passion with her academic pursuits, Summer recorded at campus studios, funding the process herself. She stands out as an independent artist in a challenging industry. Despite her success, Summer has encountered unexpected challenges. “I find myself fighting for my own interests more often than I imagined I would,” she admits. “I have to send a man in sometimes to get what I want.” Her once unwavering belief in self-reliance has been tested by the stark realities of the industry’s glass ceilings and walls.

Despite the occasional frustration of discovering that sheer talent and assertiveness alone might not be enough, Summer Dennis remains undeterred. Her journey has been marked by a relentless drive, unwavering positivity, and a genuine determination to succeed. “I think I was able to get support for my projects because I’m so hardworking,” Summer reflects. “I try my best to be a good and honest businesswoman, and people have been supportive.” This steadfast approach has made way for her to open for notable artists like Black Eyed Peas, Fergie, Latto, Bubba Sparks, Raheem Devaughn, and Remy Ma.

Her latest collaboration with Chika on the single “Out Tonight” exemplifies her vibrant energy, celebrating the freedom of living unapologetically in the moment with an infectious dance beat.

As a self-described “musical purist,” Summer embraces her independence by defying genre constraints and avoiding stereotypes often associated with black female artists. Her performances reflect her unique approach, whether on stage at The Peppermint Club in West Hollywood, known for its stunning metallic aesthetic, or The Birchmere in Virginia, celebrated for its exceptional sound quality. Summer’s ultimate goal is to connect with a broad and growing audience, bringing her authentic artistry to new heights. “I just want to be able to give the gift of what’s inside here to everybody,” she says, expressing her desire to continue evolving as an artist and delivering remarkable performances. And in true Summer fashion, she adds with a laugh, “I’m going to keep singing even if I end up outside singing for only some turtles and stray dogs.”

Her passion and dedication to her craft ensure that she will continue to inspire and captivate audiences, no matter where her journey takes her.