Tag: Hazy

Multitalented Musician, Bri Tolani, is in the midst of an invigorating journey of discovery and experience which has created the space for her to find and expand herself through her artistry. I caught up with Bri for a great chat about mental health, staying in touch with her fans through social media, the touching meaning behind her recent single “Hazy” and more.

Congrats on the release of your new single “Hazy”. Tell us about the message that you intended to portray.

“Hazy” is about my struggles with anxiety. The main hook “everything is just so damn hazy” refers to a specific symptom or anxiety I battle with called dissociation. It’s where the world around me feels dream-like or “hazy” and my brain feels foggy. It’s a common thing that can happen to anyone, but the feeling scared me and I wrote this as a way to releasing those emotions.

Though a broad question, what have you learned about yourself and what skills have you developed through working in the music industry.

I have learned a lot. But the main thing I have learned is that I really like producing. I never thought production is something I would get into but as I’ve started to learn more and more about it, I love it. “Hazy” is the first song that I produced and it was such a fun experience.

Showcasing the human in you, what is a challenging thought that you recently had and were able to overcome over time? 

I think something I struggle with a lot is being impatient. I have these thoughts that my career isn’t moving fast enough as it should and stuff like that, when in reality it’s moving at a perfect pace. Reminding myself that these things take time and that there’s no correct way or timeline for one’s career to take off is very helpful and something I need to keep doing. 

What is your perception on the digital world that we live in and social media culture?

Honestly, it’s a love hate relationship. If it wasn’t for social media, I wouldn’t be able to talk to my fans every day. However, social media can give me very, very bad anxiety. I know I’m not alone on that one, but in general I think the digital world we are in now allows us to connect with our fans on a level artist couldn’t before, which trumps all else.

No career path or amount of followers negates the fact that you are a human being that has feelings. Tell us about some parts of you beyond being a musician that you take pride in. 

I take pride in my sense of humor. Humor is so important to me and I love making people laugh. I also take pride (and hope to stay this way) being down to earth and real with people. I never want to come off as pretentious or anything like that. Like you said, I’m just another human and I want to always stay the same person no matter what happens in my career. 

As you are exposed to tons of stimulus, how do you proactively take care of your mental and emotional health when you’re out on the road?

I try to implement little things into my daily routine. Itry to take moments throughout the day to just breath and try to not think about anything. My brain is so scattered all day and so many things are going through my head, so I try to clear my mind every now and then. I also never do anything that pushes me too far on a mental level – no matter what, my mental health comes first. 

If you could trade existences with your favorite cartoon character growing up, who would you choose and why? 

I would trade existences with Bugs Bunny. He’s always in a good mood and always making people smile. He’s also very energetic, which I love.  

Last but certainly not least, any closing messages for your fans?

I guess just to let people know if you’re struggling mentally you are not alone. So many people out there understand what you’re going through and can relate. To my fans, feel free to DM me whenever you wish and visit my website for global mental health resources.

Bri Tolani Social Media Links:

Facebook • Instagram • Website