What inspired you to try music?
Music had been a part of my life since I was 4 because my mom wanted me to learn an instrument. When I was 13, I started to go through a depression, and I found that writing and singing songs helped me feel better.
What instruments do you play?
I sing, play guitar, and play a bit of piano
What would you say is your favorite instrument? Why?
Singing is my favorite because I feel like I’m really expressing myself. I especially feel this if I’m singing an original song, because the words are obviously very personal to me, and are my own thoughts.
Did you want to be a singer when you were little, or did that develop later on?
I actually wanted to be a dentist until I was in middle school! Then I realized how much I loved music and thought, “who needs stability?!”
Are you wanting to get more involved in singing?
I’m always working on improving my singing!
How would you describe your musical style?
When I perform live, it’s just me and an instrument, so it’s pretty singer/songwriter and acoustic, but on my new album “Stand Up” the songs are more electropop.
What’s your favorite song to perform live?
My favorite song to perform live is probably my original song, “How It Ended”. Like I said, when I perform live, my songs are more stripped back, so I love singing and playing the song in a completely different style than how it sounds on my album.
Are there any artists that you look up to right now?
I look up to Tove Lo and Halsey a lot. They both are so honest in their music, as I always strive to be. They also have such a cool, dark vibe to their songs, while still keeping the music catchy.
Have you ever been starstruck by anyone you’ve met so far?
About 6 months ago I ran into Cobie Smulders while coming out of the gym. I’d like to say I was cool about it, but I got way too excited and turned into a babbling idiot. She was so nice about it though! She shook my hand and let me take a picture with her.
You recently released your hit single “Stand up”, What was the process like creating this song?
It was actually one of the quickest songwriting processes I’ve ever had. I wrote the song in about 15-20 minutes. I had so much to say about the topic that the words came flying out.
Whats the meaning of the song?
The song is about standing up to sexual assault. Sexual assault has affected a lot of people who are close to me, myself included, so the song definitely means a lot to me. It happens more often than a lot of people realize and I’ve heard of way too many cases of victim blaming, so I think it’s time that we as a society stood up to it.
Can we expect any new music soon? If so can you spill some details about them?
I’m writing new songs all the time, so you’ll have to wait and see!
Are there any other projects in the works you can tell us about?
Right now I’m focused on reaching more people with my music.
What are your friends and parents thoughts on your career in singing and social media?
My friends have been supportive from day one, and I’m so grateful for them! When I first told my parents I wanted to be a musician it came as a bit of a shock to them, naturally. My mom told me she used to watch Grey’s Anatomy and imagine I’d be a surgeon one day, so music is a bit of a different path. But now, my parents are my biggest cheerleaders. They’re more supportive than I could have ever imagined.
What goals have you set out for yourself in your career and in your personal life?
I just hope to reach more people with my music. My career and personal goal is always to write songs that can help people or make someone feel less alone.
What would you say has been your biggest accomplishment so far in your career as a singer and social media star?
I’ve had some people reach out to me saying that my music has moved them to tears or helped them get through something difficult. As someone who has experienced that with other artists’ music, it means the world to me to hear it about my own songs.
Overall, how has this whole music career been for you?
It’s been really good! I’m always working on taking my career a step further, and I have a lot of hope for the future.
Do you have any advice for anyone trying to make it as a singer?
Don’t compare yourself to anyone. Remember that someone else’s success isn’t your failure.
What social media platform do you use most to stay connected to your fans?
Probably Instagram (@somayamusic if you want to follow!).
How do you want your relationship to be with your fans?
I want it to be personal. I want them to feel like they can turn to me and my music anytime, but especially when they feel lost.
Does your fan base have a name?
Not yet…got any ideas?!
What was the craziest fan encounter you have had?
I haven’t had any crazy fan encounters! I do think that something fun is that I used to practice in my backyard, and a few kids from some houses down would come and sit down to watch me.
Do you have any other talents other than singing?
I like to box whenever I get the chance!
What 5 words would you use to describe yourself?
Passionate, witty, activist, honest, and ambitious.
If your life was a movie, what would be the title?
Honestly, I would probably title it the same as my album: “Stand Up”. I interpret “stand up” in two ways, both of which I love. It can mean stand up after you’re knocked down, or stand up for what you believe is right. Both meanings have played roles in my life.
Who would you want to play you?
Gina Rodriguez. Not only is she incredibly talented, but she’s also so genuine in everything she does. Plus, she’s an awesome person overall, which doesn’t hurt.
Do you have any last things you want to tell your fans?
I like connecting with people on social media, so I would love to hear your stories and reactions to my songs! Message me any time!
