Artiz brings this journey to life in her music video with a performance that leaves people watching in a trance. The river, trees, earthy sand, and long grass compose a toned down background representing the calm and serene production of “Softly Pt.1”, evoking the sadness of Artiz’s heartbreak.
Artiz, sitting in front along with band H A U N T E R sings from her soul, baring all of her emotions while the audience sees and hears first hand Artiz’s pain and anger in her facial expressions, movements and her dynamic and layered voice.
Noted as being a fan favorite, Lo Artiz has sold out multiple shows at the infamous Troubadour nightclub in West Hollywood. Artiz has also been featured in blogs such
as Earmilk, Peaches N Pop, Fashionably Early, Alfitude, and more. Lo is beyond a triple threat. A multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, song-writer, producer, arranger, & powerhouse performer with a vocal range that knows no limits – Lo’s mission as an artist is clear – to disturb the comfortable & comfort the disturbed.
Tell us about your story as an artist
I’m not sure where music ends and where I begin if I’m honest. I just remember composing pieces on my piano or writing songs in my notebook being more natural for me than other things were supposed to be. I grew up listening to a lot of different music, but found home in Soul/Motown. My sensitive nature was clear at any early age, and some emotions felt way bigger than I could handle. Music was that place I could properly emote what I didn’t feel safe enough to express. I struggled with depression and frequent panic attacks early on, and I’m from a generation where mental health was still a taboo subject. Having a place to put the weight of what I felt, is what saved my life. Music has been saving me ever since.
What do you value the most in your life right now?
I would say my mental health and my spiritual practice are most important right now. Both go hand in hand for me and if either falter my music suffers. I’ve learned I’m a particular creature with particular needs because of my history. Maintaining a conscious relationship with myself and the universe aids my ability to walk through life with the type of mind & heart that I have.
What makes you love this song?
It touches on a lot of uncomfortable subjects while holding your hand through it. There’s a lot of incredible music circulating today, but a lot of it lacks lyrical medicine. “Softly” is special because it doesn’t reopen the wound, it just addresses it – while providing a safe space for others to have their moment of processing these subjects.
What inspired this track?
I was dealing with my own version of heartbreak at the time, which led me down a thought-trail of existentialism and mortality. I had to give myself permission to be sad or angry about these subjects, and writing “Softly” allowed me that.
What are some of the core messages here?
That it’s okay to be terrified of the ‘not knowing’. It’s okay to be the person that always loves harder. It’s okay if your emotions and feelings come at a greater size in comparison to others. All of it is valid – your anger, your sadness, and your joy.
How was working with H A U N T E R?
Jonah & Sander have this incredible ability to provide the perfect amount of space for me to do my thing. They trust me enough to send me a track and know I’m going to give it everything I got. Working with them is an ease and a privilege. I’m grateful to social media for allowing us to cross paths.
What excites you about your life?
I’ve had this recurring moment the last year whenever I’m driving on the freeway here in LA – I start to smile and think about how I’m living the life little me only ever dreamt I would. Sure, I still work a day job to cover my bills, but I’m living in the city of my dreams, able to provide for myself, pursuing a career in music, & I’ve survived every mental battle I thought I wouldn’t. That’s success in its purest form to me.
What are some of your core values as a human being?
That everyone’s a teacher if you pay enough attention. If you have an opportunity to get out of your comfort zone, take it. To protect your energy – don’t give everyone access to it. Boundaries are also huge for me as I’m a recovered people pleaser. Also, that you’re the greatest friend you’re ever gonna have, so treat yourself accordingly.
What are your next projects?
I have a few singles coming up that I’m really excited about and collaborations I can’t wait to share. I’m looking forward to continuing my story-telling in this era of my artistry.
