Joanna What sparked your interest in pursuing a career in music initially? Was there a specific moment or experience that fueled your passion?
I think the interest was always there, but I didn’t really realize it until I went to LA to pursue acting. I had been studying it for a while and it felt like that was what I was supposed to do but it became clear to me it wasn’t. I always had a big love of music (much more than acting) and I took some time to think deeply and feel what I felt was right for me. Ever since making that decision, I’ve felt pretty aligned. I don’t think there was any experience that fueled it, I think it was always there just waiting for the door to open.
Could you characterize your musical style and the genre(s) you associate with? Are there specific artists or musicians who have played a significant role in shaping your sound?
I like to categorize it as Electronic R&B. I am very interested in many different sounds and genres, and I feel sometimes it’s hard for me to claim one specific genre. I dive into styles of Pop, R&B, Drill, Hyperpop, Dance, House, Funk, etc. I like to blend a bunch of sounds together. In terms of specific artists, I don’t know if artists have helped me shape my sound but I am inspired by the artists I do listen to.
Share with us the inspiration behind your most recent single. What triggered the creative process for this specific piece?
My newest song is a remix of the first song I ever released on streaming services, Slow. I wrote the song right before lockdown, and it felt like I was foretelling it in a way. It’s about wanting to move faster and get where you want to go but you’re feeling stuck and moving slow- wanting to jump on that fire and passion but you’re not able to. My friend Janelovesu! remixed it after we performed it at my release party at Nublu in April 2023, and it definitely adds a new element to the song that I love.
In what way do you anticipate your latest song resonating with your existing fan base and attracting new listeners? What message or emotions do you aim for listeners to glean from the song?
I think what I love about this track is that it shows where I am now and highlights where I started. The cover art for this remix is an homage to the original song. This is a very dancy, upbeat version of the song, and in my opinion, it breathes new life into it. I’ve also added new lyrics and vocals, so people can go back to the original and compare/contrast etc.
How does this track contribute to the overarching narrative or theme of your upcoming album or project?
I don’t think it contributes to any narrative or theme, but rather just a marker of where I am now in the present moment. I’m learning to be mindful and grateful of where I am now, where I started, and looking forward to the future.
Maintaining creativity and motivation can be challenging. Do you have any rituals or habits that you find instrumental in sustaining your artistic drive?
I’m currently in a bit of a lull! It can be very challenging. I think it comes in waves. I don’t force it, when it comes it comes! I love to go outside and walk a ton, I think being stimulated in ways that let my brain rest or think really lets the creativity come back.
Do you have any upcoming projects or releases that you’re particularly enthusiastic about? Can you offer any teasers or details?
Yes actually I am! I’ve got a few things in the works that I am really excited about. I don’t want to spoil too much but what I will say is that it will be quite collaborative and I’m looking forward to exploring the newness of it all. I was recently offered an exciting opportunity too and I’ll announce that at a later date.
