Cover art by Aidan Tooth
“There were many times in my life when I had to walk away from someone or stand up for myself because they were toxic. But I felt really guilty after doing that. They were in the wrong yet why was I the one who felt really guilty?
I want my new song “Guilty” to inspire listeners to feel angry and fed up if they’re feeling guilty. There were times when I felt helpless and trapped because I didn’t know what to do, or times when I still considered the other person’s feelings over mine.
We’ve probably all had relationships where we’re hesitant to walk away from someone because we feel guilty, and I want this song to be that push you might need in order to walk away from them if you’re in that situation right now.”
What’s your story as an artist?
I’m an alternative pop artist and singer-songwriter from Toronto, Canada. I create music that uses orchestral instrumentation and fuses them with theatrical, pop elements; ultimately creating a dark and dramatic sound. I write about topics like mental health, heartbreak and self growth. I’m a huge advocate for mental health awareness and believe in the acceptance of all cultures and identities. My goal as an artist is to take our painful experiences and turn them into music and empowerment.
What inspired this last release?
I just released my single “Guilty”. The song is about feeling guilty for walking away from someone. You still care about them but you finally decide to put your happiness first. And sometimes, that means walking away from them, even if you don’t want to. Writing this song reminded me that even though I feel this way, I still need to do what’s best for myself. And I hope this song gives you the strength to do the same.
Do you get inspired by other art forms?
I love combing visual elements to my music, like in my song artworks and music videos. I look at fashion, makeup and painters for inspiration. Alexander McQueen is one of my favourite fashion designers and his work inspired the dark drama I like to incorporate in my visuals.
Any funny anecdotes from the time you were recording or writing this?
Writing this song was very therapeutic for me and reminded me that I needed to put my happiness first. The song is about multiple people, and I’m pretty sure they don’t know the song is about them!
What’s your favorite place or environment to write?
As long as I have a piano or keyboard, I can write anywhere. In the summer, I love writing outdoors! it makes me feel at peace.
What’s a record that shaped your creativity?
Lady Gaga’s album “Born This Way” is one of my favourite albums. Both the production and lyrics shaped my teenage years. This album inspired me to be bold and courageous, especially in my lyrics.
