Tell us a few things about your new song “Gemini “.
“Gemini” suggests the idea that everyone has an inner demon, a twisted side that they don’t want to face, toxic habits, negative thoughts… a spine chilling, yet alluring temptress of sorts. Sometimes it’s hard to fight off these monstrous versions of ourselves and they can consume you, can get the best of you. So the question becomes, will I give in or am I strong enough to resist? I have always been a big fan of scary movies and wanted to use this opportunity to really go there … I wanted to create my own terrifying version of a horror film/music video hybrid.
How would you describe your musical progress over the years?
I released my first album in 2018 and since the pandemic, I have been working in silence on a new album. “Gemini” is the third single from my upcoming album Red Umbrella, releasing early 202Since my recent single release of “Still Love You” just a few short months ago, I have gained over 20,000 monthly listeners and over 60,000 streams on Spotify. It’s surreal to see the music taking off in a way that I’ve been working so hard for, for so many years… and we’re just getting started. It’s my time and I’m claiming it.
What first got you into music?
I grew up as a dancer and always turned to music for every big (and small) life moment. Music is my worship, my gospel. If I am happy, I listen to music. If I am overwhelmed, I listen to music. When I am celebrating, morning, moving on, turning up … I turn to music. Comforted by my dad’s love of the Motown era and influenced by my mom’s 70’s rock vibe, I had an ever-evolving obsession with soul music, lyrical genius and emotion-evoking melodies! Now as a professional singer/songwriter/entertainer, I can honestly say that there is no greater joy, no better therapy, nothing that can make me feel more like myself, than making music!
What do you enjoy most? Writing music or performing your music live?
As much as I love the initial first session at my piano, closing my eyes and letting my fingers find their way across the keys, channeling the emotions I’m feeling, capturing the moment to translate it into song, and as much as I flourish at the studio, molding sounds and synths with my producer, bouncing bass lines off colorful harmonics, stepping into my greatest self, into such glorious moments, I have to say, I come alive on stage. There is something so intoxicating, so raw about having the entire room’s attention, using your platform to make everyone around you feel how you want them to feel. It’s empowering, it’s vulnerable, it’s exhilarating and it gives me purpose.
What is the biggest challenge you have faced as an artist so far?
To say that being an artist is “challenging” is the understatement of the year. Artists sacrifice everything they have for the dream. I was actually just talking with Taylor Xo, and real talk … we both have come to the realization that for so long we have sacrificed it all, without even a second thought, no hesitation. All our money, time, energy, self worth is and has been consumed and related to the success (or any lack of) ‘being an artist.’ As I grow in my artistry and purpose, my sense of self has expanded and I have learned how to be an artist without letting it consume my entire identity, allowing more room for love, family and honestly just having fun. Life is meant to be fun.
In which state of mind do you imagine people might listen to your music?
I love this question. I would hope that fans and loved ones turn to my music as often as they can, finding something for every mood, much like I do. I want my music to be “feel good,” empowering, hopeful when you’re down, and most of all, I want my music to always feel relatable and honest. I imagine that people hear themselves, their words, through my voice, and picture their own lives with images of their own stories flashing behind their eyes as they listen.
What is the most useless talent you have?
I can literally eat the hottest, spiciest food of anyone I know. If food doesn’t make me cry or make me have to sit in physical pain for at least a few minutes after, I’m not into it! HA! I put the El Yucateco XXXtra Hot Sauce on absolutely everything and still can’t get enough …I guess maybe this could be useful if I ever wanted to do some hot sauce food challenge, but until then. Lol!
Thank you!
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