Photo by: Caity Krone
This piece was originally featured in AM01 — Issue One of Ascribe. Click here to read it alongside the rest of the issue.
You have released a sped-up and stripped version for your single “Fall In Love Alone.” What prompted you to do that?
I think most of it was due to the fact that so many people were asking for both versions on streaming services, so they didn’t have to go to TikTok or YouTube to listen. Also, I think it makes like a 3 part story to fall in love alone, because it’s the same song with the same feeling but in different moods.
What was it like working with Nina Kramer for the music video to “Fall In Love Alone?”
Nina is such an amazing director with such an eye for intricate storytelling in a very short time with no dialogue. She created a story that fit perfectly with the lyrics and that evokes a lot of emotion!
Is the experience different from working with friends, such as Nina, on projects than someone new?
I think it’s definitely different. Being friends gives you a deeper understanding of each other and can make the final product a little more personal. But working with new people is exciting too because it gives you the chance to make new connections and then can lead to friendships too!
You have well over 1M followers on TikTok. Do you remember your “I did it!” moment when you went viral?
I think I have a couple of those moments. I remember taking a shot when one of my TikTok’s hit fifty thousand views for the first time. I also remember seeing my notifications going from zero to 99+ in seconds when “Don’t Text Me When You’re Drunk” was going viral, and I remember being shocked.
I think the ultimate “I did it” moment from all of this is getting signed to a major label, Island Records, from my viral moment!
What was it like going on your first headlining tour this year?
It definitely gave me a taste of touring and it left me wanting more! I only did three shows (plus a show in Times Square), and it was such an amazing time to be on stage with my band and singing all my own music for people! I can’t wait to do more live performances next year!
How has your training as a jazz pianist influenced your creative process with your music?
My jazz education influences all my music, for sure. I love making pop music that has super musical ideas and chords that stem from jazz. Growing up playing piano and learning jazz piano has also opened me up to understanding the theory behind the music, and has let me learn new instruments too.
What environment do you find it best to create in when you’re songwriting?
It really depends on my mood and what kind of song I’m writing. Sometimes alone in my room is the best, but other times in the studio with my producers and songwriters creates a great vibe and a great song!
Who is your biggest inspiration in the music industry?
There are so many people who inspire me daily but if I were to name a few I would say Yebba, Lawrence, Tori Kelly, Bill Withers, Michael Jackson and so many more!
At only 22, you’ve seen the world, released three singles that have amassed global attention, and opened for Duran Duran. What’s next on your bucket list?
I would love to perform at an award show, and I would love to collaborate with Billy Joel too!
Do you have new music coming up that we should be on the lookout for?
Yes! I have a new single called “Over Tonight” coming soon and even more music slotted for next year! Keep an eye out.
