Albanian born XHOANA X takes her dark, Eastern European heritage very seriously.  From an upbringing of one of the most tolerant spiritual cultures in the world, comes a unique style of art, with a mixture of freedom, rebellion and heroism.

The relaxed form of culture from Albania is the driving force here. You are in the darkest little corner of your room. And yet, this is where you find that you are most comfortable. Although perhaps you also find yourself a bit surprised at the ease in which you exist here.

The unexpected seems natural. The rich enthralling darkness is the vibe.

Following in the footsteps of early musical influences the likes of Massive Attack and ‪Portishead, XHOANA’s music takes us on a spellbinding journey, as if we are preparing for a series of pagan rituals based on mystical beliefs.

Make no question here, she is the high priestess, and in full control of  the ritual.  The journey is a web in which we are caught, but you’ll find it hard to turn your ears away. You are trapped in a web of intrigue and sensuality while a neo noir movie plays in your head.

Her look and fashion is no less captivating, additionally filled with occasional David Lynch-esque twists and turns. Although her main ambition has always been on developing her musical recording career, XHOANA has also worked both as an actress, influencer, and model.

Her latest video for “Villain” was shot in high contrast in black and white by famed director TJ Scott (Gotham, Xena Warrior Princess, Bates Motel) and tells the story of a toxic love affair between two women shot in a 1930’s German film noir style. 

Tell us about the story of your art. 

For as long as I can remember Ive been an artist.. Even as a small child I used to get together with friends and put together shows. I’d choreograph and style them.. sing and dance in them.. I always wanted to create one way or another a desire which still stands. It’s part of me and what makes me feel alive.

What is the message behind your art?

Freedom of self expression. Acceptance of all that we are, acceptance of what we feel and acceptance of wanting to express it however we want.

What are some sources of inspiration behind your lyrics and story telling? 

Life experiences: good and bad, intense emotions, love, loss, grief, euphoria, sex, energy, people, art itself, artists, paintings, painters, movies, books, nature, the universe.. anything and everything.. 

Who is an artist that you look up to more than others today? 

Kanye West. It’s hard to see eye to eye with him on certain things but I love that no matter what he’s able to create such unique & intense live shows.. he’s one of my favorite male artists.. 

What was a record or artist that changed your life?

Can’t just pick one here.. no way.. 

I have deep love for Bowie, Sade, Portishead, Massive Attack, Kurt Cobain, Michael Jackson, Madonna, Rihanna, Beyoncé, LDR.. they are all life changing to me. 

Tell us about your latest release and how it came about? 

My latest release is THE VILLAIN EP. It is a concept album.. and deeply intense, colorful, emotional. Deals with love & loss.. our dark side, our soft side and everything in between. 

You seem to be fusing several musical genres. What inspires your sound? 

This particular album has a retro, trip hop/ downtempo feel. An ode to music I love.. but what inspires my sound always changes and expands.. The next ep will be even more different.. I can’t say too much on that yet.. 

How would you want people to feel while listening to your music? 

Above all understood but I know it could put you in your feels for sure, a little nostalgic at times or melancholy, sexy and feisty the next, empowered and hopeful.. 

What are some things you really want to accomplish as an artist? 

Create an experience with my music & visuals.. I want it all to be perceived as a unique piece of art. A moving installation. 

What inspires your style?

My aesthetic in a sense.. my style is what inspires my style.. my unique perspective.. 

Was there ever a moment when you felt like giving up?

Yes. And unfortunately that feeling still creeps up sometimes. But I don’t give into it.. Maybe because I’m hard headed or maybe because I have a vision I don’t want to give up on.

What is the best advice you’ve ever gotten?

Don’t give up. Keep going. No matter what.