Hey Grace!! Can you tell our readers a little about yourself?
Hey Teen Music Insider, thanks for this opportunity!
I am a fourteen year old singer/songwriter from the Kansas City area. I’ve grown up surrounded by a lot of creativity. My adventurous family likes to travel and try new things. Some of my earliest memories are of far away places. I remember being poked in a stroller to wake up to see the Mona Lisa in the Louvre, and I spent my sixth birthday playing musical sheepskins (instead of musical chairs) in a medieval tower house my family was staying at in Ireland. I have always been encouraged to passionately pursue my dreams. This has been an influence on my life and my music. I would describe myself as a singer/songwriter/ musician/actor/dancer who also loves travel, fitness, and fashion! I’m in constant pursuit of what new adventures life has to offer.
No problem at all we are so excited to be talking with you and that’s so cool!! You have a very fascinating life!! What inspired you to pursue music?
I fell in love with music at age 4 and never looked back. After watching one of my sisters have voice lessons, I knew singing was my thing. I wanted to be on stage and perform for whoever would listen. I began songwriting at age 8, and at age 12 began recording original songs. I think I just have an inborn desire to create music.
How would you describe your musical style?
I would describe my musical style as alternative delicate pop.
What artists do you look up to right now?
Right now I have been listening to Florence and the Machine, Dodie, and Jon Bellion. I also love Queen!
You have just released an incredible full length album, called “Just a Dreamy Idea”. Can you tell us about how this album came about and the theme of the album?
I recently did release my debut album called, ”Just a Dreamy Idea.” I poured my heart and soul into this project which was over a year in the making. When I was younger I had fantasized about making an album with this title, and had even designed mock-up album covers. When the album became a reality, I couldn’t resist giving it this name. I like to use a lot of imagery in my lyrics and there is a dream-like or fantasy feel in a lot of the songs, so this album title is fitting. This is especially apparent in “Alice” which has a lot of Alice in Wonderland symbolism or “Infinity.” I recently released a music video for “Alice” which is on YouTube, https://youtu.be/G26XTY8F5V8. In most of my songs I like for there to be a setting, or something visual, for the listener to imagine while listening to the song. I use the lyrics to tell the story, and the music to set the mood. You can listen to this collection of dreamy ideas on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/album/6USEdwGTpa5W1J2tJGebLs?si=ypN4uaodRx6-M_VxMWaKNA), iTunes (https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/just-a-dreamy-idea/1441598393), YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_mrNyXZJhE-lvadRdOScwu6fmx_sqS2R24) and more!
What do hope your supporters will think of the new album?
I have received really great feed back on my new album! My song, Alice, has won a few awards. It won Semi-finalist in the Teen category in the International Songwriting Competition and Finalist in the Pop category in the Hollywood Songwriting Competition. Sun-Kissed won Overall Winner In Radio Air Play’s Summer Song 2018 Contest. I think releasing this group of eight songs in a debut album was an important step in establishing myself as a recording artist.
Are there any other projects in the works you can tell us about?
I am working on a new single, which I am excited to share soon! It has an upbeat nu-disco sound and the lyrics encourage acceptance of cultural differences. I hope to release a music video of this song soon as well. I am also really excited to be performing live in a concert in Kansas City on March 31st!
Why do you think social media is so important for singers today?
I think social media is really important to singers today because it gives people a chance to connect on a more personal level. Even though social media is curated, it gives people a chance to see more about the person behind the music. I love how social media is interactive as well. Personally, I like to share through my blog too. By blogging, I can go more into details and share about other things going on in my life. I enjoy writing and photography, so social media and blogging are really fun outlets for me. In addition to music, I share about travel, fashion, and other interests. Reach out to me on Instagram @gracepiperfields or check out my blog http://www.gracepiperfields.com.
How do you want your relationship to be with your fans?
I think relationships to fans is an important part of being a musician. Even though when I am writing a song I am writing from a personal perspective, I do keep listeners in mind. Music is meant to be shared and is form of personal connection. It is my hope that fans of my music find something relatable in the songs. I like to weave positive vibes and thought provoking messages into my music. I would like to think that I am viewed as a role model, especially for young girls. I am always interested in feedback as well. I think having a dialog with fans makes a songwriter better as an artist.
What was the craziest fan encounter you have had?
I do get personal messages through social media about my music. Most people have been sincere and appreciative, but nothing too crazy. I am flattered when I meet new people who have heard my music and are fans.
What social media platform do you use most to stay connected to your fans?
As I mentioned before, my favorite social media platform is Instagram. In addition to connecting with my followers, I am always on the look out for inspirational people to follow. Follow me @gracepiperfields
What’s an average day like for you?
An average day for me is BUSY, and I wouldn’t want it any other way. I spend most of my time outside of school developing my passions. In addition to being a singer, songwriter, and musician, I am also an actor and dancer. I am currently involved in two musical theatre productions and a play, so I go to a lot of rehearsals. Despite having a lot on the calendar, I do manage to make time for creative pursuits. Sometimes I get questions as to how I am able to keep up with everything I do. I think this works out for me because even though I am very focused on my goals, I have a laid back personality and don’t second guess myself. I always make time whenever I can for friends and the important people in my life too. If I have to give up something, it’s usually sleep…
Where do you see yourself in 5 years in your career and personal life?
At age fourteen, five years seems like a long time. One thing I know for sure is that I want to learn as much as possible in the next five years. I plan to continue to evolve as a singer, performer, composer, and musician. I’m a believer in life is what you make of it, so I’m excited to see what’s next!
How has this whole music career experience been?
It’s funny, because up until recently I never thought of what I did as a “career.” I was just a girl doing what I loved to do. Evidently what I love to do involves a music career, and I enjoy every aspect of it! When you spend time doing what you like, all the hard work is just fun!
Do you have any last things you want to tell your supporters?
I just want to say that I am so grateful- grateful for the support and experiences I have been given, all the incredible mentors I have met along the way this far, and for all the love and encouragement from family and friends!
Thanks for taking the time to do this interview 🙂
Thank you!
