How do you usually write the lyrics of your songs?
I write lyrics and journal daily, so each piece of lyric is from a memory or thought.
In your opinion, what is the most important thing in songwriting?
For me it’s the language – I don’t want to write anything I wouldn’t say even if it’s popular.
Are you ever scared of revealing aspects of your personal life/experience to strangers through your music?
Yes, you have to respect all parties involved. Music is my release, but it may not be fair to share your personal feelings about a past love, or family member in a song without their permission.
What is the best lyric that you ever wrote (the most meaningful for you)?
In a song called “Heaven Calling”: “growing old, it’s just heaven calling.” I wrote that at a time when I really felt like things were changing. People in my family were getting older and passing away, and it felt odd because I’d never experienced deaths so close to me. But I realized it was more a transition into (if you believe in this) a different place.
What inspired “Flavor,” your latest single?
I felt the opposite of confident – I felt lame and almost so different that I couldn’t fit in. So I wanted a song that praised the different flavors in a personality that one should have. It’s fun and something you can dance to!
And “Your Love’s A Vibe”?
I couldn’t describe this person I was enjoying hanging with. My friends would say, “What do you like about her?” I would say, it’s just her vibe. We don’t have to talk about everything. All of our conversations just felt like a scene out of an episode of Insecure.
Do you remember the day you wrote “Testify”?
Yes, I do! I wrote in the living room of my parents’ house. Then recorded in a studio above the Roxy in LA, haha.
Are you working on the release of a new album?
I’m being patient. I need to find the right producer for my official debut album. Maybe Mark Ronson? Haha. For now, though, just little EP’s and singles.
What is the best suggestion your producer gave you?
I produce my own music for now. Most people have no idea. I want to get better, but some of my songs – like “Roll With Me” and a few others – those producers have helped me to relax. I over think everything. I’m so analytical, I usually need to just relax and let it flow.
What are your plans for 2019?
To play some shows, maybe another batch of songs in the fall.
To conclude the interview a short Q/A session, please answer the first thing that comes to your mind:
- Define in one word your latest song “Flavor”: Sassy.
- The best show you ever played: AfterShow for Lollapalooza.
- The one thing that you must have in your backstage: Water.
- The soundtrack of your childhood: Kirk Franklin Record with Stomp.
- Your favorite song lyrically speaking, but not written by you: “Heaven Calling.”
- Last question is “unusual”, we want to know your best relationship advice: Check to see if they like 30 Rock or The Office. If not, beware. They might be a robot.