Hey Kuri! So excited to be chatting with you! You just released your latest single “Human Nature” & it’s awesome! I love it!! What has been your thought about the reaction of the song?
It’s been so nice to hear the feedback of people relating to the feelings – and just expressing that they like it. The song is so old to me now with having written it several years ago, so it’s been so nice to feel a sense of newness with it.
Can you tell us the backstory of this song? Is it based on a real experience?
The song is definitely based on real experience. It’s about trying to figure out why we do what we do in times of grief. Why am I responding to pain in this way, and how can I better respond to that pain? It’s not so much about the drama of that pain, but the function of it, if that makes sense.
Can you spill any details on what your supporters can look forward to this year?
Not sure how much I can give away exactly but there will definitely be some new music, music videos, and some touring. All coming up pretty quickly here.
I’m incredibly excited about it.
What does it feel like to be releasing your own original music?
It’s really pretty special. To express something deep within you and have other resonate with it. I think that’s the biggest joy for me – having others come along side the music. It becomes as much theirs as it is mine.
Is there anyone you want to thank that’s helped you get to where you are today?
Too many people to thank! My parents and brothers have been huge. Right now I’ve been really appreciative of John Raham, the fellow who recorded the record for me. He’s helped me develop as a musician and as a professional in so many ways. I’ve been given so much by so many people.
What do you think makes your fan community/fandom different from others?
You know, I’m not really sure they’re any different from any other fans. There are so many amazing artists out there who I’m a huge fan of as well. Ultimately I just want people to enjoy music as much of it as possible. If some of that music is mine, that’s super cool.
What are three words you would use to describe your fans?
Mom, Dad, etc. haha no, honestly “uplifting” is the best word I can think of. I don’t know if I usually think of listeners as fans, but people who tell me how they’ve related to a song really help me when I’m feeling dejected.
What do you want your message to be towards your fans? What do you want your fans to take away from your music and shows?
I want people to express their own stories. I want people to address what they have inside them, even when it’s hard. I don’t want to be the only one writing music, you know? I want everyone to feel free to express themselves in whatever way is fulfilling in them.
Do you have any pre-show rituals that help you get pumped up to meet your supporters?
I drink chamomile tea with honey. I usually go for a long walk and sing a little while I’m out. Nothing to crazy. I want performing to feel as normal as possible so I try not to elevate it too much. I’m singing to people just like me.
Are you planning any shows to promote your new music?
Lots of shows coming real soon. Nothing I have announced yet, but I’ll be performing lots in March and April this year.
What is it like performing in front of your fans?
It’s pretty bizarre actually. Everything sort of disappears. It sometimes feels almost weightless – especially when singing. I really love when I can feel the audience responding positively to a piece. Not even in applause, but in the stillness.
What do you want your supporters to know that you think is important?
I think like I mentioned earlier a bit. You don’t need to hide away in yourself. Personal time is huge for sure – definitely for me. But ‘no man is an island’. There’s so much importance in relating to other humans.
What’s something your fans don’t know about you?
I love me some Hockey.
What’s one word you would use to describe what your fans have allowed you to accomplish?
Freedom. I’ve felt emboldened by those around me to say what’s really in me.
Is there anyone in the music business you are dying to meet?
I think meeting Kendrick Lamar would be very fascinating. But really I want to meet as many other creators as possible. I love meeting new people.
Why do you think social media is so important for artists like yourself?
It’s where the entertainment world seems to operate. It’s so easy for people to find new music – so easy to move from one thing to another. It’s kind of scary, but there’s so much freedom for the listener. I also think people aren’t just interested in music. People like relating to artists; almost feeling like they’re a friend. Social media seems to provide that.
What would you say is your biggest dream/goal right now?
Right now I’m just focussed on releasing some new music and getting on the stage as soon as possible. Very eager to share more with everyone.
Any last things you want to tell your supporters?
Thank you, and keep your stick on the ice!
