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You started your music career at a very young age, what inspired you to try music?
I have been singing for as long as I can remember. It was just something that I always loved as a kid, and then as I got older, I loved how listening to music made me feel. I knew I wanted to create THAT feeling, and so I began to write songs and one thing led to the next…
What was it like transitioning to a solo artist?
Difficult, exciting, and life altering. I had hoped that a lot of my prior accomplishments would translate into immediate opportunities, but in hindsight I’m glad that didn’t happen. I was forced to really grow as an artist and as a person, to start over, and find my voice on my own.
What would you say has been your biggest accomplishment?
Finally releasing my first song as a solo artist. This is something I’ve been aiming towards my entire life. I’ve been through quite the journey to get to this point, but it’s the most gratifying thing to finally have music out there that is completely reflective of me and that I can say is my own.
How would you describe yourself in 5 words?
Strong, intuitive, sensitive, organized, loving
How would you describe your musical style?
California country. I grew up in Southern California and my musical influences trace back to the artists/sounds that came out of Laurel Canyon in the 70’s-everything from Fleetwood Mac, to The Eagles, to Neil Young. My parents played that kind of music constantly when I was growing up, and I think it painted the foundation of my musical landscape. I’ve been living in Nashville for the last 13 years, so I’d say that has also had a huge impact on my writing and musical style. It’s a combination of both these worlds that I have such strong ties to.
Which artists do you look up to right now?
I love what Kacey Musgraves is doing. It’s real and raw and unapologetically her. Little Big Towncan do no wrong in my eyes…they’re a class act and I’ve adored them and their music for many many years. Taylor Swift is a songwriting genius and also gave me my first big touring opportunity when I was in Gloriana, so I will forever be indebted to her. Stevie Nicks is my all time favorite because she is this magical rock n roll fairy who inspires everyone to believe in their own magic.
You recently released your debut solo single, “Cool.” Can you tell us about the new song?
It’s a song about my first love. We fell hard for each other, went through a messy break up, and then eventually with time, developed a genuine friendship. It feels so good to get to that place with someone you have so much history with because you look at it for what it is and realize that those are the puzzle pieces in life that make you who you are.
How do you want your relationship to be with your fans?
Connected. I want my fans to feel like they really know who I am, because I finally know who I am. And I also want to really know them. I want to inspire others, but many times I find myself inspired by the people I meet along the way.
What social media platform do you use most to stay connected to your fans?
Definitely Instagram, along with Facebook and Twitter.
What’s an average day for you look like?
Every day is different for me. Some days I’m waking up to go to a writing session or a meeting or into the studio, some days I’m working from home on the business side of my career. I try to work out at least three times a week. I go to the grocery store. I cook a lot. I hang out with my friends. I’m as normal as it gets in my home life. I’m hoping that will change soon and I can get back out on the road again!
What do you like to do in your free time?
I’m a homebody, so cooking, watching a good tv show (there are so many right now), going to dinner with my friends, watercolor painting, writing poetry, working out, and anything that gets me in the water-boating, canoeing, swimming, etc.
What is your favorite part of your career?
There are so many aspects I love, but performing is probably my favorite.
What’s your biggest struggle in this career so far?
Starting over. I walked away from a very comfortable situation with the band I used to be in about two and a half years ago…we had a label, a bus, a team, a steady income, etc. But I knew I needed to be a solo artist and I had to get a fresh start away from everything I once knew. That came with a lot of sacrifices and challenges, and I felt SO stuck for the longest time. I couldn’t get anyone to write with me or work with me after I left the band and it was a serious struggle. I’m glad I never gave up and just kept believing in myself because patience is EVERYTHING in this career. I eventually ended up meeting all the people who would change my life for the better and if I hadn’t stuck it out, who knows where I would be today.
If your life was a movie, what would be the title?
Dark Star (after one of my favorite songs I’ve ever written)
What impact do you want to have on the music world?
I want to be a light for others. I want people to know that being brave isn’t the easiest, but it matters, especially when it comes to following your heart. I also want people to hear my soul when they hear my lyrics and my voice, and I want my songs to resonate with people on a deep level.
What goals have you set out for yourself in your career and in your personal life?
In my career, it would be a dream to be headlining arenas one day. Thats what I have always wanted, since I was a little girl. In my personal life, I just want to maintain healthy relationships with the people I love. Life is ever changing, so it’s important to be surrounded by people who keep you grounded and remind you what is truly important at the end of the day.
Do you have any advice for aspiring music artists?
Be yourself, don’t try to follow the musical trends. And know who your real friends are.
Do you have any last things you want to tell your fans?
I love you all.
