Tag: Singer

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Music Reviews

Vancouver Musician, Aza Nabuko, Releases Otherworldly Self-Titled EP

Vancouver Musician, Aza Nabuko, is in bloom both as a musician and a human being who is bound to stretch beyond the boundaries of her known over the years to come. Experimenting with a variety of seasons of life metaphorically throughout her lyrical back-tale, Aza’s recently released self-titled EP is one that mesmerizes both young and mature listeners. Here’s our track-by-track thoughts.

Kicking off with the first track, “Strangers”, Aza channels the maturity of Banks as she begins lyrically spinning a web of intense feeling that showcases how two individuals that were once insanely in love can fall apart once lies and thoughts become hidden behind closed doors. “Ordinary” is the second track that showcases self-awareness as lyrics that put concrete truth into Aza’s ability to discern her supposed faults empower listeners to be more of themselves when falling deeper into intimate relationships. The third track, “Fade Away”, begins with a soft and emotive piano instrumental that leads into the highlight of Aza’s seemingly divine vocals that spill forward words of yearning for release.

“Heart of Concrete” is the fourth track that takes listeners down a tunnel of dark and back into the light as lyrical awareness shares Aza’s thoughts of being alone in her mind with her ever-growing brick wall heart that she is aware has grown through the pressures of heartache and pain. The fifth track, “Space Between”, is an EP highlight that speaks to the lucid air that stands between two human beings that once shared their entire lives together as Aza becomes increasingly lyrically aware of the distance that continues to grow. Closing out with “When We Fell in Love”, Aza lyrically reminisces on the moments in which she felt like nothing in the mind of a human being that she perceived as her everything through phenomenal songwriting that is bold and abounding with empathy and truth.

If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as Banks, Grimes and Halsey, then keep an eye on the promising ride ahead for Aza Nabuko on YouTube.

Aza Nabuko Social Links:

Facebook • Website • Instagram

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Interviews

Interview: Ali Caldwell

Soulful, grounded in positive intent and delivering a Motown vocal style that listeners could never forget, Ali Caldwell is it. I caught up with the New Jersey Musician to discuss the Summer of 2019 release of ‘88’, her experience on The Voice, keeping her family and best friends close while touring, clearing space for a healthier mindset and more.

Congrats on upcoming release of ‘88’. Tell us about the creative and recording process in the studio and what you learned about yourself along the way.

‘88’ is scheduled to come out Summer 2019! The process is going really well and I am working really hard to make it perfect.

Let’s talk life beyond ‘The Voice’. How have you handled spreading your wings and transcending as a musician ever since you have moved on from your experience on the show?

After my time on The Voice I realized that I have grown so much as an artist. I have grown in my performance skills as well as vocally. Seeing the growth made me want to keep going harder, and I was very proud but well aware that I still have some growing to do and was ready to take on the world after coming off of such a platform on a high note.

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

I would worry about what people thought of me. If I was pretty enough. IfI was the perfect weight, if my hair was straight enough. Many non-productive thoughts would constantly run through my head so much that at one point it took control. Basically, lots of over thinking. Through growth, self-love and realization, I am in a much better head space then where I used to be but AS A HUMAN. I learned not to be too hard on myself and realize that no one is perfect.

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

I do believe that social media has literally taken over not only our younger generation, but the world. I admit It’s fun, but some don’t know how to separate the internet world from their actually reality, and to me that’s the scary part. But overall, I love the positive things about the internet and social media. I love the ability to touch and talk to my fans globally at the click of a button. For me it’s my vehicle to spread love and positivity worldwide.

No career path or number 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’ve always taken a lot of pride in my relationship with my family. My grandmother is literally my heart, putting a smile on her face always makes me proud. I’m very proud of never getting in any trouble as a young lady coming out of high school and figuring out this thing called grown up life. I remained focused on doing whatever it takes to accomplish my goals. Being a focused and driven woman in a male dominated world especially in this industry; I take LOTS of pride in that. As a young girl I’ve always been one to never like to ask anyone for anything including my parents. I’ve always wanted to prove to them I can figure it out on my own and I have been doing just that for years making my parents and myself very proud. I take pride in being the best person i can be and spreading as much light and positivity to those I come in contact with.

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?

Massive amounts of prayer! I’m never afraid to pick up the phone and call my parents,  grandma or best friends to bring me back to reality, and keep me grounded and humble. I make it a habit of keeping the circle of people around me clean and beautiful. I believe the energy we keep around us is very important when it comes to mental, emotional, and physical health. Peace and a stable mind are everything to me. I love life drama-free!

You have toured with a wide variety of musicians over the past years and have played at some major festivals. Tell us some words of wisdom that you collected along the way.

There are a few things I never forget. Some very important people have shared with me as advice and uplifting words of encouragement while touring and traveling (to name a few!) which are….

“Be Yourself, It’s Okay”

“Perform like it’s your last time”

 “Leave it all on the stage”

 Patti Labelle once told me, “People will hate for no reason, but your job is to remain a class act, smile, love them anyway, and then kick their butts later!”, and these words I have always kept with me and it helps me so much every day.

What do fans of Ali Caldwell have to look forward to in 2019?

My new album, ‘88’, will be released in the Summer 2019. new videos, more collaborations with some of my favorite singers, more show dates and a possible States tour and European tour. Of course, my limit is beyond the stars so who knows. I do know 2019 will be special. How special? MyAlikats (fans) and followers will have to stay tuned to watch and see.

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

I absolutely adore my Alikats. Without them I wouldn’t be where I am today. Without their undying support I wouldn’t have a following or a career, so I’m beyond grateful for each and every Alikat that loves and supports me and my journey and my dreams. I truly feel like we are riding this thing together. I can say thank you over a billion times and never get tired! It literally means the world to me. I’m very excited to share this new music. I can’t wait!

Ali Caldwell Social Links:

Facebook • Spotify • Instagram

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Interviews

Interview: Jess Coppens

Having recently released her well-received debut single, “Rain”, Jess Coppens is just beginning to make a name for herself as an impassioned and soulful Pop Musician. I caught up with Jessica to discuss her view on social media, learning about herself through creating “Rain”, making it a priority to detach from stimulus and more. 

Your latest single, “Rain”, dives deep into your core. What did you learn about yourself through creating that track?

Writing “Rain” was a rollercoaster. I wrote it with my friend and Engineer/Producer, Dan Swank. We wrote most of it in his home studio and I think it was the first time in awhile that a song came somewhat easy to me. I was going through some self-doubting and wasn’t sure of where I wanted to be. The writing process of ‘Rain’ kind of gave me that feeling of, “Oh shit, maybe I CAN do this”, and it was pretty cool.

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

Like I was talking about in the last question, I had a lot of self-doubt going on before and after I had released “Rain”. Until that song starting coming together, I didn’t know if I wanted to keep making music. I’m definitely thankful that I was able to overcome that self-doubt and get this tune out to the world. It felt like a huge weight lifted off my shoulders.

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

It is what it is, honestly. I hate the fact that social media is so important, but there’s no going back from it. There’s plenty of positive stuff out there, too, so I typically try to surround myself with that kind of engagement rather than the drama and bullshit that the internet thrives on.

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.

When I’m not doing music-related things, I’m working at a local coffee shop. It’s definitely a nice way to express creativity through some other kind of art form. So I guess I take pride in my ability to make good coffee.

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?

When I’m away from home, I try to make it a priority to “detach” a bit and just enjoy where I’m at. It’s easy to get caught up in my head when I’m away from my usual daily routine, so I try to stay in the moment more often.

Have you been able to heal any of your past life experiences through art and/or creating music?

Not yet, but I know I’m progressing. I feel like every song I’ve been writing lately has taught me something new. It’s slowly helping me

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

Thanks so much for all the support! Without it, writing “Rain” wouldn’t have been possible. I’ll have more soon!

Jess Coppens Social Links:

Facebook • Spotify • Twitter

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Music Reviews

Melbourne Songstress, Monique Angele, Releases New Album: ‘Alive’

Melbourne Songstress, Monique Angele, is poised in depth and has curated a reflective work of musical art from the heart throughout her latest EP, ‘Alive’. Here’s our track-by-track thoughts.

Kicking off with the first track, “Pink Coloured Sky”, Monique’s angelic vocals elevate the lighthearted touch of elegance that is laced throughout the serene instrumentals which clash fluidly after the first verse to break into a colorful sky from a place where clouds had become darkened. The second track, “Our Paradise”, begins with an airy piano that trickles its way into a lyrical journey into Monique’s intention to create a special heaven on earth that is entirely their own with a special human being who has moved her down to the soul. “Forever Strong” is the third track in which Monique lyrically yearns for peace of mind and a sense of clarity as she dives into the deep end of herself to uncover reservoirs of strength that have been uncovered through loss.  

The fourth track, “Rare Girl”, stands out as Monique lyrically embodies her worth and stands tall as a shining example for all of the individuals who are settling for less than what they desire or deserve in this lifetime. “Hold On” is the fifth track in which Monique lyrically dances with her devils in attempts to overcome her own fear of not being able to move forward from a situation or experience that was stifling everything that she had worked so hard to become and be. Closing out with “I Want A World”, the young and vulnerable remnants of Monique come to light as she lyrically proclaims her desire to aid in creating a brighter and kinder world for all.

Monique Angele emits a gracefulness throughout her artistry that mimics prestigious divas of the past. If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as Vanessa Carlton, Skylar Grey and Sara Bareilles, then keep an eye on the ride ahead for Monique Angele on Soundcloud.

Monique Angele Social Links:

Facebook • Twitter • YouTube Channel

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Interviews

Interview: Alexa Melo

California Songstress, Alexa Melo, lets down her guard in a empowering manner that showcases the personal growth and assurance that she continues to cultivate within as a human being. In celebration of the release of her latest EP, ‘MUTE’, I caught up with Alexa to discuss what she learned throughout the recording process, choosing not to damage your identity through the criticism of others, living in California and more.

Congrats on the recent release of the ‘Mute’ EP. Tell us about the creative and recording process and what you learned along the way.

Thank you! Well, the first song I recorded on ‘MUTE’ is called “Loyalty”. This was 6 months after a vocal cord surgery I underwent, and being mostly mute for months. So, I sang these songs in a much more timid and raw tone than anything else I’d ever done – my voice was still healing and I was not feeling myself. “Loyalty”, along with the rest of the songs featured on this EP, I recorded and produced alone in my bedroom. I was able to take my time and be patient with my voice, but also become more honest with my lyrics without feeling the judgement of others. I learned that being patient with myself and my writing is super important no matter how long it takes.

Share some words of wisdom that you have received along your journey as a musician that can serve to inspire others.

Never allow others to change your creative direction through scrutiny or criticism. It’s great to take constructive critiques and apply where it resonates with you, but never allow others to bully you into becoming something you’re not. This happens a lot in the industry and it’s never worth the damage it can ultimately do to your identity.

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

The way that people make you feel about yourself is ultimately how you feel about yourself with or without them. I’ve had to learn to validate myself and not turn to others to provide that for me.

You’re currently based in California. Tell us about how living on the West Coast has served to influence your artistry.

Having lived in LA for 12 years and recently moving to the Bay Area, I’ve noticed that even between LA and the Bay, the artistic scenes and influence vary. Living in California means that motivated and talented artists are seemingly always around you – because they all seem to flock here to be in the industry. So, inspiration is on tap here and I love it.

Thinking back to day one in the studio for the ‘Mute’ EP, did you think that the release would have turned out anything like it did?

No. I had no idea it would be so dark, and that the visual aesthetic would be so dark as well. On day one, I didn’t know what would occur in the year to come. So many more unexpected hardships came my way, but at the end of the day I’m so pleased with the result of this EP.

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?

No drugs and lots of sleep. I’m pretty boring!

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

I could go on and on about this, but I’ll spare you. There are so many pros and cons to discuss, especially when referring to the music industry and all the ways this digital era has affected it. My perspective is constantly shifting about this. Some days i feel like an old man cursing the “new way”! On other days i feel blessed being apart of this surreal, futuristic reality. What I am sure of though, is that I think there’s a balance we desperately need to all achieve to be a healthier, happier species. We have fallen way too deep into a technological world and I’m fairly certain it’s taking an unforgiving toll in how our minds work and how our brains are developing. Just in my lifetime, I’ve seen the way people interact with each other and the world change drastically in ways that are not positive. I think the internet is creating a false sense of connection while it’s actually creating distance between us. Not only that, I think it could also be turning us against each other in a sense. Not to mention the fact that vanity and narcissistic behavior is accepted and even encouraged now, especially in the younger generations. I’m concerned about how this will all affect us mentally as we age.

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.

Despite what you may believe upon looking at and listening to my art, I love to laugh and make people laugh. I’m a goofball; any darkness I may feel gets immediately filtered with art. I’m actually quite light-hearted.

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

Thank you for listening and supporting!

Alexo Melo Social Links:

Facebook • Twitter • Spotify • Website

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Music Reviews

UK Songstress, LeeSun, Releases New Album: ‘Singing You This Song’

UK Songstress, LeeSun, emits an elegance throughout her artistry that is captivating to both the aching and alive soul. Having released her latest album, ‘Singing You This Song’, LeeSun is vulnerable in the most precious and enlightening way. Here’s our track-by-track thoughts.

Kicking off with the first track, “Wishing”, LeeSun softly strokes the aching cells of listeners going through heartbreak as she lyrically processes her heartache with the recognition of her endless yearning to connect with another that she deeply loves. The second track, “My Life”, abruptly showcases the manic highs and lows that stem from heartache as an instrumental and vocal element that mimics Lily Allen captures the spirit of a wandering mind and soul. “Mother Dear” is the third track that is beautifully composed and arranged to showcase the pain that LeeSun has carried within herself from experiences in her childhood that are difficult to let go of and process. The fourth track, “Dry Your Tears”, lyrically reassures listeners that newfound strength is on the way although at times experiences can feel so heavy that it feels as though the end of the world is impeding when in all reality, the end of a world that one once lived in is simply coming to a close.

“Want To Be” is the fifth track that is abounding with vulnerability as LeeSun has lyrically come out on the other side of processing and is present and grounded in her current reality which is the realization that her heart is connected to her twin flame for life. The sixth track, “The Week You Loved Me”, is titled with charm as LeeSun slowly reminisces about the seven days that love felt so alive while cunningly still keeping the fact that it was fleeting alive in the back of her mind. “This IS the Way” is the seventh track that lyrically pours forward from the soul as LeeSun is unsure as to where the next chapter with another will lead. The eighth track, “It Is What It Is”, feels like a load of bricks upon the listeners chest as LeeSun lyrically attempts to accept the loosening of an ancient grip that is no longer serving her personal growth. “Singing You This Song” is the ninth and title track that is full of lyrical contemplation and the replaying of past memories in LeeSun’s head over bouncy instrumentals that aid in the certainty of the indecision that she is feeling within. The tenth track, “Oh My Love”, lyrically opens up a relational casket that LeeSun knows she should forbid herself from yet her ego finds tempting to revisit. “Everything Dies” is the eleventh track lyrically tackles denial in a soul-tugging manner as LeeSun waxes and wanes between whether to push another away or pull them closer. “I’m Coming Home” is the twelfth track in which LeeSun lyrically lets go of the weight that she had previously carried and finds a place within herself in which she is ready to return home to both herself and another. Closing out with “We’re All Made Of Stars” (Guitar Version), LeeSun reminds listeners that we are all made of unique elements that make us exactly what we are and it’s okay to feel proud of who you have become.

‘Singing You This Song’ is an album that naturally brings tears to an individual’s eyes in the most welcoming way. LeeSun has created a breakup album for the ages. If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as Lily Allen, PJ Harvey and Norah Jones, then keep an eye out on the ride ahead for LeeSun on Soundcloud.

LeeSun Social Links:

Facebook • Twitter • Bandcamp

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Interviews

Interview: TONKS

South Jersey Singer/Songwriter, TONKS, has taken an emotive and introspective turn into himself to create a record that is worth listening to. In celebration of TONKS first record, ‘Windows Down & Dying’, I caught up with the man to discuss his overall perception of the album, his favorite restaurants in New Jersey, staying physically active to maintain positive mental health and more.

Congrats on the release of your debut album, ‘Windows Down & Dying’. Tell us about the creative and recording process and what you learned along the way.

This record started with me sitting in my living room recording demos into the mobile garage band on my iPhone 6s. I had over 300 riffs and partial songs recorded in my voice memos and I told myself that I had to put out music in 2018 by whatever means I could. After I organized enough songs, I contacted Eric McNelis from the band Sleep In. and asked if I could record some demos with him at the Gradwell House recording studio in Haddon Heights. After we had finished 5 songs I decided that the process was easy enough, and rather than waste money on nice demos I should just put out a record and take myself seriously. I think I learned a lot about myself, and know now that I’m capable of recording a record on my own if I am self-disciplined and stay focused.

If you could go back to day one in the studio, would you have envisioned that ‘Windows Down & Dying’ would have turned out how it did?

Yes. For the most part it was just like the demos. One of the really great things about working with Eric was that he was down for anything, and I never felt like I was restricted when it came to adding new parts and experimenting with the instruments available in the studio. So going into it I wasn’t sure all the instrumentation I imagined would make it onto the record, but I think I would have been happy to see that all of that came together as I had hoped.

Tell us about the journey of TONKS so far. What inspired you to take your musicianship solo for the project.

It has been an amazing experience. I love every part of music, including the business and promotional aspects. Already I’ve been able to work with new people and I’ve learned new things through those relationships, which is all I can really ask for. I think my biggest inspiration, or driving factor, was reconnecting with a younger version of myself and having the thought of, “I’ve played music, taken lessons, and been on stage my whole life.  If I don’t put out my own music it would have all been a waste.” I started taking violin lessons and performing in recitals at age 4, so I’ve always been most comfortable when I’m on a stage playing music, and entertaining people.

If you could recommend three of your favorite restaurants in Jersey to our readers, which three would you choose?

• Sushi Kingdom would be number one. It’s an all you can eat sushi place on Route 73 in Marlton NJ. I love sushi so that is one of my favorite places.

• China 1 is a Chinese food place in Marlton off Route 70 and Maple, where my friends and I eat when we are all home at the same time. Some of my favorite memories from home involve eating food from China 1.

• Hearthside is a newish restaurant in Collingswood NJ on Haddon Ave. They have a lot of great pasta, a wood-fired oven, and they have great oysters (I love oysters).  

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 really enjoy running and camping. I don’t get to camp as much as I’d like but it’s something I’m able to do about twice a year as of right now, and I’d eventually like for it to be a larger part of my life.  Running is something I’ve done since I was 5. I ran track and cross country in school, and I still race 5ks and 10ks from time to time. This past year I did my first half marathon and I’m proud of that. Hopefully in 2019 I’ll be able to do a marathon.

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 am still trying to figure this one out but in the Dryjacket van I always bring books to read.  Adam, Joe, and I have gone on a few runs, if we have time during the day and have access to a shower after. Staying physically active has always been the best way for me to stay on top of my mental health.

How old would you be if you didn’t know how old that you were?

I think I would be much older. I feel like I’ve lived a very long life for such a young person. I’m very lucky to have had a lot of experiences and have traveled to a lot of places because of music.

Any upcoming tour or show plans that you can fill us in about?

I’ll be playing another show in Philly on Dec 22nd to finish up the year then I have a full US planned for March 15- April 10th which will hopefully be announced in a month or so.

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

I just want to say thank you to everyone listening. It was amazing to play the release shows and hear people singing along this early on. Hope to see you all in March!

TONKS Social Links:

Facebook • Twitter • Spotify

All Photo Credit: david garren

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Interviews

Interview: Mardoll

Leaving listeners immersed in her mysterious world of elaborate creative thought is just one piece of artistic appeal that draws individuals toward NYC-based Songstress, Mardoll. Throwing herself into the ringer throughout her latest single, “God”, has served to challenge common conversation and influence boundless musings beyond one’s known. I caught up with Mardoll to discuss the intimate detail within her latest single “God”, the blend of rebellion and childlike wonder in her idiosyncratic mind, the joy of watching her 10-year-old little brother grow into a young man, always choosing to love yourself and more.

Tell us about the journey that you have been enduring within that has led you toward bringing your first single, “God”, out and into the world.

From a very young age, I was always curious. I liked asking questions. I grew up in Europe with strong values and conservative traditions .  Although I went to an international school and had exposure to many other cultures, all of them seemed to be shaped by something I felt was somewhat rigid… not inquisitive enough for me. Although I have a lot of respect for all cultures and traditions and feel that they are important, I always felt that traditions are not an excuse for not questioning our habits and way of thinking. Maybe it was my rebellious nature or maybe it was my childlike wonder but I was always a very curious to find out why we did something differently than others would. The song “God” is just an extension of that same curious nature. Why is it we shame and make taboo of love of anyone?   Religion seems to want to dictate love and hate. And if we accept love as a strong and meaningful human value, why don’t we question the powers to set limits to the definition of love and whom we can love? But it’s not only the judgmental way organized religion views same sex love, but in general all the rules that religion sets for our way of life should be evaluated in the current context of human existence. My mother came from a Jewish family on her father’s side and a highly prestigious European Christian family on her mother’s side.  When her parents divorced, her Christian family frowned upon her Jewish background. As a result, although she married a Catholic man and for the sake of his mother in law, went through the motions of Christening us, she decided she would allow us to decide what religion we wanted to follow. I was allowed to believe and worship whoever I wanted. As long as it wasn’t harming myself or anyone else. The “don’t be an asshole” rule was our family motto.  In my early years where, on occasion, we would make it to church, or I would hear religious rhetoric, it always fascinated me how blindly humanity can trust in a book.  I started asking many questions : What kind of God would allow so much human suffering?  What kind of God would create such a chaotic and unfair world? What kind of God would watch his children fight each other, destroy his legacy preaching love and forgiveness, to use his name his name to kill? The fact we are all fighting over whose version of God is right means we’ve missed the point entirely. That is definitely highlighted in the chorus. “Your silence speaks loud and clear….I guess you really left us here.” 

Deep question; have you incorporated your own personal experiences and reflections into your music? Have you been able to heal old wounds through your artistic expression?

Music has always been an outlet for me. It is my way in which I process experiences, traumas, escape depression and find solace.  It’s a space in which I can process emotion and play around. I feel music often leads me to a new perspective, gives me a fuller picture and elevates me to a higher level. So I can take Catherine out of the equation, and Mardolll can see it objectively. Music does not always heal all wounds.  Sometimes music allows me to grieve something I have buried inside. Sometimes I need my music to bring something that hurts up to the surface so I can take a second look, relive it and find new way of dealing with it.

How did the concept of ‘Mardoll’ come about? What does it stand for?

Mardoll  is a character I’ve been playing my whole life. She was the woman I always wanted to be. When I was a chubby little outcast who wasn’t allowed to be a part of the aerobic competition team because of my weight, Mardoll was the version of me who would perform. I’ve been playing her my whole life, I just finally gave a name to her later on. The name actually originates from a Nordic goddess who also goes by Freya, or the White Goddess. My roommate at the time, Bryanna and I were thinking of artist names when she pops her head into the room and goes ‘What about Mardoll?’. The name finally felt like a fit after trying out so many others.  It was an ‘Aha!’ moment, Suddenly I knew this had to be.

Tell us about a recent train of thought that you have had that can inspire our readers.

The relationship we have with ourselves is the most important relationship.  This is where the inner dialogue takes place. I’ve been playing around with this theme and exploring it in a few songs I’m currently working on. It’s led me to start thinking about the stories and lies we tell ourselves as well.  We try to explain ourselves, create limits for ourselves all the time without asking deeply who we really are, why do we fear things, are we able to change? What are the reasons for the mistakes we keep making all over again?

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’m fascinated by politics and history.  I love not only talking about these subjects but also debating them. I love the challenge of taking a perspective that might not align with my personal beliefs, and arguing for it. Maybe it’s the devil’s advocate in me, maybe it’s my rebellious nature or maybe it’s just the fact my dad’s a lawyer and I grew up listening to that. But beyond how I love to argue, I’m a sister to my big and little brother and I’m a dog mom. My little brother is my absolute favorite person in the world and watching him grow into the young man he is has been the absolute joy of my life. With 10 years between us, ours  is one of the most rewarding and meaningful relationships in my life. He’s practically a carbon copy of me, from facial features to strong will. He drives me crazy but I wouldn’t change it for the world. In a weird way, I feel like we’re twins who got the timing wrong and now it’s my duty in this world to show him the way from my mistakes. I’m also a dog mom to my two dogs back home. Ninja and Coco. Ninja is my first-born boy and is me in a dog. All he wants to do is eat, sleep, and be given attention…I relate HEAVILY! Coco is a tiny little dog who bosses everyone around. She runs the show even though she’s 2 KG. 

As you are exposed to tons of stimulus, how do you proactively take care of your mental and emotional health while being in the public eye?

Exercise! Lots of exercise but also Yoga. Yoga helps build mental strength, the ability to focus, or it to stay on track. I have a wild imagination and ADD tendencies, so doing yoga several times a week helps me with that. It also teaches me self-awareness which for someone like me, who has a tendency to slip into depressions, it ensures that I’m not lying to myself and really being honest with everything that is going on. It’s constant work, and not always easy (or interesting for that matter) but it’s important. 

How old would you be if you didn’t know how old that you were?

A sassy and sexy 75. Though I have been known to act 9 from time to time. As a little kid, I felt that sometimes I was just kind of waiting to grow up. 

What is your personal opinion on how immersed society has become into the social media world?

I don’t think it’s good or bad. It’s just different. Every generation has thought the next one was out of touch.  Every generation has looked back with rose-colored lenses. So, yeah, maybe kids don’t play outside as much. And, yeah, maybe today’s kids don’t have the same attention span. But today’s kids are also the most accepting of any generation before. Today’s generation is more informed than ever before .   Today’s generation is creative and resourceful. If kids seem out of touch, maybe it’s the adults who are disconnected, but let’s not blame the modern magic of the internet. As many things often do, it has its ups and it has had its downs. 

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

LOVE YOURSELF! Love yourself enough to hold yourself to a standard that forces you become the person you’ve always wanted to be. Be the person you told yourself you wanted to be growing up. Go out there and be proud of who you are and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. You never know what life will throw at you so take advantage of every moment you walk this earth. Work hard, try do better, and aim higher! 

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