Having recently signed her song ‘Savage’ to Sony US & Babygrande records, Tana is an artist & songwriter with charge and unique flair for lyrics and melody. Her tracks have been championed by Sean Kingston on Instagram, played on BBC introducing, and featured in numerous publications – as well as writing for artists such as ‘Jike Junyi’.
Her rich and diverse views on gay culture, have strongly influenced her musical and personal journey. “I’m queer and I want to use my platform to be real and be a voice for others”, she says. Tana’s music is unapologetic, revolutionary, and liberating, and she places diversity at heart. Her growing reputation means she is one to watch, and she aims to change the scene for good.
“As the title says, ‘Fake Friends’ is a song about fake friendships. I wrote the song earlier this year when I started re-evaluating where I’m at in life, and this included looking at particular friendships within my circle. I noticed how other people’s problems were becoming mine, and it affected my vibe. Life is full of fake people who always want something from you, so the only thing that should really matter in this life is that you find peace within yourself and that you have you. You have to protect your energy from unwanted influences at all costs because it’s divine, and at the end of the day, all we really want to do is enjoy ourselves right?”
Tell us about the genesis of your project. How did you get to where you are now?
I’m currently working towards my second EP, which will be released late summer. In the lead up to that, I’ve been dropping singles in-between to give people a taste of what’s yet to come. My project initially begun with me wanting to create music for myself, and that’s why my music sounds like a plethora of different sounds and genres I listen to. It encompasses all the worlds I posses within, and it extends beyond music though, style, art, life choices, and my surroundings.
What is the favorite song you wrote and why?
My favourite song I’ve written to date is ‘Fake Friends’. It’s unreleased but will probably be the next single I put out. I’m really proud of the lyrics because I use a lot of metaphors and play on words which really gets you thinking, and that’s exactly how I want my music to be, thought provoking.
Who are your all time musical icons?
I’m really inspired by Halsey, Miley Cyrus, Labrinth, & The Weeknd.
What are some things to do to keep your inspiration alive?
I try to find inspiration everywhere, from the people I meet to the places I’ve been. But I find that inspiration comes to me when I least expect it. I like the idea of not searching for it because then it more feels natural and I can create using my full potential. For example, I could be having a casual conversation with someone, and will literally stop them for a moment because I liked something they’ve said and write it down. A simple conversation can spark so many ideas.
Who are you binge listening to these days?
Conan Gray, The Neighbourhood, Madison Beer, Dominic Fike.
Favorite movie or TV show?
My all time favourite movie has to be ‘Girl, Interrupted’.
Tell us about your latest release and how it came about
Bad Habits (Keep on Coming) is a song about toxic relationships and the repercussions it leaves you with. Ultimately, this experience left me with some traits that I didn’t like, and so I wanted change that for my own development.
Do you have any peculiar pre or post show rituals?
I like to meditate and warm up before a show. But on the contrary, I also like to have a shot or two….just to loosen me up a little.
What’s the future looking like for you?
Apart from working on my EP, I’ve got some really exciting collaborations coming out. I’m working on a project that’s in partnership with a major label. I’ve also got a deep house collaboration set for June 18th, and I’m playing my first live show since lockdown.
Who inspires your style and aesthetics?
I really like looking at Pinterest for most of my aesthetic when it comes to artwork and visuals. But I’m also really into architecture and interior design. Style wise, I love Aleali May and Veneda Carter. I think they’re dope, and I like how they effortlessly fuse streetwear and luxury.
What is the achievement or moment in your career you are the most proud of and why?
I wrote a song back in 2019 with some friends on a writing camp, and recently found out that it got picked up by a really big Chinese artist for her upcoming album. I’m super proud of this because it’s bound to open up so many more opportunities, and I’ll be credited as a songwriter on the track.
What do you think is the best way to make it as an artist nowadays?
The best way to make it as an artist in my opinion is to release content regularly. It reminds people that you still exist because otherwise your music just gets lost. I started to notice for myself actually the more content I release, the more engagement I get, and to any independent artist this is gold. You also have to put in the work and reach out to everyone if you’re trying to get your music placed on blogs or radio, and I know it’s super long, but the outcome is worth it. If you’re trying to make it as an artist, just make the music you like and people will eventually pick up on it.
What would you change in the music and entertainment industry especially after this past year?
I’ve said this before, but we need more women in music. There aren’t enough women working in the industry and this goes across the board, from performers to songwriters, producers, engineers and label owners. I also think songwriters need to be paid more for their work. Royalty income is pretty much it for most songwriters, and streaming services make is very difficult to make a living.
