Tell us about the genesis of your project. How did you get to where you are now?
Glass Paradise originally came from my love of the islands, sun, sand, and beach. As 2020 unfolded, I realized I would not be able to travel the way I had imagined, so I created songs that would embody how I would have wanted to feel if I could have gone on a dream vacation.
What is your favorite song of yours?
Overnight is my favorite song that I wrote on this project because it is the most personal and has a little more depth to it. The other songs are more on the lighthearted and fun side whereas Overnight evokes a more emotional feeling.
Who are your main influences?
Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, Beyoncé, Ariana Grande, Nicki Minaj, and Céline Dion.
What are some things to do to keep your inspiration alive?
I love consuming other art forms as a way to stay inspired such as reading a book, watching a movie, or painting. The same way music can sometimes put how you are feeling into words, reading or watching a movie that I can relate to helps me to find different ways to express myself.
Who are you binge listening to these days?
Ever since Nicki Minaj dropped Beam Me Up Scotty I have been listening to that as well as her other projects a lot.
Favorite movie or TV show?
My favorite movie is Coraline. It was one of the first horror films I had ever seen in theaters and I just loved it so much. Every time I watch it I always find something new that I didn’t notice before.
Tell us about your latest release and how it came about
The way Glass Paradise Deluxe came about was we had made two new songs that we knew we wanted to release in the summer but as I was working on the second song I realized that their vibes fit Glass Paradise perfectly. So instead of trying to create a whole new story, I decided to just continue Glass Paradise’s story.
What’s the future looking like for you?
The future is looking like a tour as well as more music videos and another project. Also, I hope to come across some acting opportunities in the near future.
Who inspires your style and aesthetics?
I’m not really sure because my style changes a lot but I would say the early 2000s to late 90s is what I aim for but most of the time I’m just in sweats and a t-shirt. My favorite aesthetic though is kawaii.
What is the achievement or moment in your career you are the proudest of and why?
I recently received a message from someone about how one of my songs had helped them get through a difficult time and that is honestly one of the best things that have ever happened to me because that is why I make music. The same way music has saved my life I want to be able to do that for others. Getting messages like that also helps me to realize that I am not alone in how I am feeling.
What do you think is the best way to make it as an artist nowadays?
To honestly and truly be yourself. I know people say it all the time but it is so true. With all the craziness that comes with being an artist, staying true to who you are is what helps you stay grounded and also sets you apart. If you try to be something you’re not and people end up liking you then you will feel that pressure of having to keep up a facade in order for people to keep liking you. It also just feels great when you know people like you for you.
Is there anything you would change in the current music industry as an artist?
As much as social media can help with reaching new people and gaining a bigger audience I do wish that numbers, such as the amount of views or likes, didn’t matter as much. An artist could be super fire but because they don’t have a certain amount of followers they might not get certain opportunities because of it. That’s one thing that I would change in the industry.
