For Olivia Longott, music has always been about more than making records. It has been a way to confront difficult realities, reclaim her power, and transform lived experiences into something that can resonate with and inspire others. From her groundbreaking years with G-Unit to the billion-stream success of the 50 Cent collaboration “Candy Shop,” Olivia’s career has continually evolved while remaining rooted in authenticity and creative independence.

Now, after releasing her latest single, “Venom,” Olivia is turning her attention to the complicated pull of toxic relationships and the strength it takes to break free from them. The track offers a glimpse into what listeners can expect from her forthcoming album, Shining Girl, which promises to further explore her growth as an artist and as a woman. We caught up with Olivia to discuss “Venom,” her journey so far, and what lies ahead.

“Venom” feels like a record about power, composure, and knowing your own worth. What was happening in your life or creative world when you realized this was the story you wanted to tell?

I always want to zoom in on tough subject matters that people may be having in their life. This isn't my first time writing a song like this. My song "Walk Away" touched on the subject as well. My response is a clear objective; to let the victim know you are in control. 

The song explores the attraction and danger of toxic situations, but the message ultimately feels empowering. What do you hope someone going through a difficult relationship takes away from “Venom”?

You have the power to heal a.k.a the antidote.

The visual of you calmly standing with a live python is incredibly striking. What does the snake represent to you, and why was that imagery important to the identity of the record?

In real life I don't like snakes but facing your fear is the essence of that picture. You're stronger than you think!

You have been writing, performing, and shaping records for decades. How has your approach to songwriting changed with experience, and what parts of your younger self are still present in the way you create today?

Song writing to me is when energy, passion and an inner vision presents itself. It took the younger me time to accept that gift and let the pen flow naturally. 

You are entering consideration for the 69th Grammy Awards for both Record of the Year and Song of the Year. What does that recognition mean to you at this stage of your career, especially considering how much of your career you have built on your own terms?

I'm just thankful to be in consideration and to see my music still reaches people in such a positive way. 

“Venom” is being released through your own Perfectly Pitched label while partnering with ADA Nordics and Warner Music for distribution. How important was it for you to retain creative and executive control while still having the infrastructure to reach a global audience?

It's very important for me to retain creative and executive control. When I was younger and starting out, I wasn't given many options and had to take the direction of execs on what songs to put out. As an artist you are always evolving and by keeping creative control, I am able to express myself fully through my music.

You have always had a strong entrepreneurial side, from music to fashion, lifestyle, and your AIVILO Skincare Brand. How do you balance being the artist in the room with being the executive making decisions about the bigger vision?

For that part of my career, I rely a lot on my team. When they share insight on ideas, I may have, whether its products or business ideas, I respect their view because it comes from a place of research, honesty and truth. I think all artists should have a team that's not afraid to tell them the truth. To me, that equals success. 

You have a real history with 50 Cent and G-Unit, and so much of that music has stood the test of time. What is it like looking back on that chapter of your life now, especially seeing how those songs continue to reach new generations?

I am so proud of the work that I did while with G-Unit. We brought in a different era of Hip-hop and R&B and it makes me so happy to see and hear the new generation experiencing our music for the first time. 

I noticed you recently received your billion-stream plaque for “Candy Shop,” which is an incredible milestone for a song that has been part of the culture for so many years. When you look at the fact that a new generation is still discovering and streaming a record you helped create with 50 Cent, what does that kind of longevity mean to you personally, and does it change the way you think about the impact of your songwriting?

I was so excited when I received my Billions plaque. That is no small feat. It is truly an honor to be in that club. It personally means to me that my music can stand the test of time.

Which artists are you listening to and enjoying at the moment? And is there an artist you’d love to collaborate with that you haven’t had the chance to work with yet?

Brandy will always be my top favorite period. But right now, I'm listening to Bruno Mars, Tame Impala and Jhene Aiko. The one artist that I have met and would be an absolute dream to collaborate with is Lenny Kravitz

What can fans expect from this next chapter of your career? Do you have any shows, live performances, or other exciting plans coming up that you can share with us? 

Yes! My song "Venom" is the first single off my new album titled "Shining Girl" My new album will be released in 2027. My Health and Beauty Brand Aivilo is available in select stores and you can go to www.aiviloskincare.com to purchase direct. As far as touring, we are working on my first International tour for 2027. Just check my Instagram for updates at @only1olivia  

Author: Andrew Braithwaite

Andrew is the founder and chief editor of Music Talkers. He's also a keen music enthusiast and plays the guitar.