Tell us about your story as an artist
I have been singing and writing songs ever since I was a young girl. As I transitioned into adulthood I decided to take the more “practical” route in life, so I majored in Economics and put my music in the back seat. The deeper I went down that path, the more music became an unscratchable itch. Eventually I figured out if I want my life to be truly fulfilling then music HAS to be a part of my story.
Now I live in LA and working on my music more seriously just feels right. The studio truly is my happy place, and when I’m in there making music I have this sense that it’s exactly where I need to be.
What do you think is the most important aspect of your life right now?
Keeping my head on straight and staying grounded. As an up-and-coming artist in LA it can be tempting to follow the trends and do what you “think” you are supposed to do. There are so many opinions and voices and it can become very distracting. Right now I am focused on making music I am proud of and on staying true to myself. There’s not one way to do it, so why not just do it my way?
What makes this song special in your opinion?
“Fool for the Pain” highlights the duality we face within ourselves when we subject ourselves to things (and people) who do more harm than good. It encourages the listener to think deeply about who they are. To see their spirituality in a different light. To reflect on the worst and the best in themselves. I think this song is special because it is painfully honest about navigating the challenges of life as humans.
What inspired this track?
This song was inspired by many different situations and people in my life. After I wrote the first few lines of this song, I knew it needed to be powerful. I’m proud of how the lyrics leave you guessing. I’ve had friends text me, ‘OMG what does the blood on the nightgown mean??’ I can never give a straight answer because there really isn’t one. I love when music strikes a balance between telling a story, and also being vague enough that listeners can relate it to themselves.
What are some of the core messages here?
We all go through stuff in life. Sometimes really really dark stuff. I hope this song makes listeners feel like they aren’t alone in that struggle between light and dark. It is part of the human experience, and we are all just trying to do the best we can with what we’ve been dealt. Ultimately, those dark times can allow us to grow stronger and can be an opportunity to build self-love. We are resilient, and I hope my listeners always remember that.
How do you think tik tok and social media are contributing to change an artist’s career?
Social media is a double-edged sword. On one hand it allows us artists to be more accessible to our fans. It is easier than ever to connect and have our music heard, which is so exciting! On the other hand, there is a lot of pressure to keep up. There are times I catch myself feeling overwhelmed and just wanting to focus on the music. At the end of the day I think social media is what you make it– good or bad!
What excites you about your life?
I moved to Los Angeles six months ago. The energy here is palpable and I’m lucky to have already met some really cool people. I wake up and get to go outside with my dog and walk under palm trees! Maybe I’m still a little bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, but I grew up in the Rocky Mountains so I do not take the warm winters for granted. Why didn’t I move here sooner?!
What are some of your core values as a human being?
When I was growing up, before I would go babysit for neighbors my mom would say, “Leave things better than you found them.” In that context it meant picking up some extra toys or doing the dishes before the parents came home. Now I have found I can apply that advice to situations in my everyday life. My mom’s words still run through my head as I strive to consistently leave things better than I find them, especially people. Leaving an impact on the world starts with one small act at a time.
What are your projects for this year?
This year I am working on an EP and I will be releasing some of the songs leading up to it. I’ve been dreaming of this for a long time and I feel so lucky that it is actually happening!