Can you tell us a little bit about you?
Here’s the speed date version: My name is Cuja. I’m a pop artist living in LA. I’m from Denver and I love tacos. I started writing music when I was 13 yrs old. I love traveling, working out, and every kind of dumpling. I’m what people call a ‘classic Taurus’ and I don’t like to swim.
What artists do you look up to right now?
I’m a huge fan of Hayley Kiyoko, not only because she’s an amazing artist, but because she’s repping so hard for the LGBTQIA+ and the Asian-American community! Its been so awesome to see her journey as an artist over the past few years, including all her acting and directing work! She’s an all around boss. I’ve also been loving Billie Eilish’s new album—its such a different change of pace in the pop scene—and I’ll always been on Ariana’s string because her voice is legendary.
Your just released your debut EP “Vol. 1”! How excited are you that this project is finally out into the world?!?
I am mad excited about the release! It’s been such a long road, so to see it finally reaching everyones ears has been such a treat.
Can you tell us about what this EP means to you?
-It was really important to me that these songs were rooted in real emotions, but that they had a fun, lighteness to them. It’s an expression of deep feelings but the juxtaposition of the upbeat musical elements reflects a realness to me. I wanted these songs to represent me and my personality. I’m extremely emotional, but I always persevere through the dark times to find the light.
What has been your thought about the reaction of the new EP?
I honestly couldn’t ask for a better reaction! ‘Don’t Forget About Me’ was supposed to be that sleeper song on the album and is turning into everyones favorite. Its awesome to see everyone connecting so deeply with the music. What more can you ask for?
Any fun moments while creating the EP?
There’s a little “Hiya” in ‘New Friends’ right before that drop that Alina (my producer) programmed in. We loved the sound, but when the song came out, people thought it was an actual dog bark sound! We definitely didn’t see that coming, but I didn’t mind! I love dogs, especially my own (S/O Indiana Bones!).
What song are you most excited to perform from this new EP?
‘Don’t Forget About Me’ is such a banger and has such a fun drop! Performing this one just feels like a dance party up there! I have a show next month at The Peppermint Club in LA and I think that’s going to be my closer!
What does it feel like to perform your own music live in front of your supporters?
Crazy! The first time I performed my own songs, I was so nervous. It’s strange because no one knows all your songs yet. Now when I perform, it just feels like I’m having a party with my fans!
Are you planning to tour to promote this EP?
I would love to tour this EP! So far, I have some plans in the works, but nothing is set in stone yet! Hopefully soon!
How do you want your relationship to be with your supporters?
Mutual. Supporters and fans are such a priority as an artist, not just what they can do for you, but what you can do for them! I hope I can support my fans with the same passion and love through my music as they show me with their support. Sure, labels, streams, radio play is important—but at the end of the day it’s about people connecting and sharing something special.
What was the craziest fan encounter you have had?
I challenge all my fans to try to be as crazy as my two biggest fans: my parents!
What social media platform do you use most to stay connected to your supporters?
I use Instagram the most and a little bit of Twitter.
Are there any other projects in the works you can tell us about?
Yes! I have a single I’ll be announcing soon and a music video! I’m so excited to share what I’ve been working on. I think everyone’s going to be super excited!
Do you guys have any last things you want to tell your supporters?
Just thank you and I love you! It’s so insane and challenging to pursue something like music, but it’s so worth it knowing everyone is listening and having a good time!
Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to do this interview with us.
Thank you!!
Cuja Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5ssPxv6xtCK3ouwNBNLEMy?si=1tMvgrjSTJeyszmCx153sg
Cuja SC: https://soundcloud.com/cujamusic
Cuja FB: https://facebook.com/cujamusic
Cuja TW: https://twitter.com/cujamusic
Cuja IG: https://instagram.com/cujamusic
