Interview: In the Mourning

1: How did you decide on the name, “In the Mourning”?

"In the Mourning" is representative of how I write and craft my songs. Writing is so therapeutic for me, and my most pure emotions are accessed while I am still mourning and processing the feelings. Sometimes I will sit down with the goal of writing a song and nothing happens. Other times, I will write an entire song in 10 minutes. It's all about finding the right time and space to be connected with my inner self, and that's when the best songs, thoughts and ideas are formed for me. 

Also, if you have ever seen my Twitter, it will come as no surprise that I am a Paramore stan! "In the Mourning" is one of my favorite songs by the band, the real ones will know! 

2: What inspires you to create?

Creating is my way of self-expression and representation. I am inspired to create and share my voice and perspective because voices like mine have and have always been underrepresented in almost any position I find myself in. Whether it is in or out of the music industry. I just find it pretty incredible that we can encapsulate moments in the human experience in the form of words and melodies for others to hear and relate to. 

3: What advice would you give to someone who wants to be in a creative profession?

My advice is to try anything that interests you! Nothing is more valuable than experience and time on the job. I have done almost every job behind the scenes in the industry and not only has it given me the skills to run my own business and be my own creative producer, it has taught me strengths and highlighted the things that I absolutely do not want to work on. 

4: Do you feel open minded about what you listen to? Do you like going out of your comfort zone?

I am absolutely open minded about what I listen to. I am so curious to hear from the perspectives of anyone that wants to share, regardless of the genre. If you don't give it a shot, how will you know?? 

5: What outlets do you find out about music from? (Record stores, magazines, samplers, etc.)

I am happy to say that my friends have great taste and trading music recommendations is something that I do not take lightly! Local blogs are also so cool because the writers are always just so in tune with what is happening in their regions and you don't really get these insights unless you are in the thick of it!

6: How do you think the internet has impacted the music business?

The world of music is ever-evolving and it's place on the internet is no different. Musicians and music fans can share and access millions of songs like never before and that is pretty amazing to think about! Whether you're on a major label or making songs in your basement, there is now a way for your music to be heard because of the internet.

7: What band/artist do you think everyone should listen to?

I am obsessed with Turnstile. Their whole discography, especially the latest release GLOW ON, is no skips!! If you haven't already, Rina Sawayama must be added to your rotation immediately. Also gotta shout out my friends in nightlife, Indighxst, Pinkshift, JHARIAH, Hoity-Toity and As Time Fades! 

8: What motivates you to check out a new artist?

If the artist is recommended by a friend or an artist that I already enjoy, I will be inclined to check them out! Having the seal of approval from sources I trust is always great! 

9: Who was the first band/artist that became your favorite band?

My first favorite band was the Spice Girls. The harmonies, the girl power, it was giving what it was supposed to give!

10: What was the inspiration for your song “At What Cost”?

All my songs are inspired by real life feelings and events. "At What Cost" was no different. It is about loving someone who does and says things to make you believe they are in it for the long haul, but when the time comes to commit and work on healing, they don't follow through. Yeah, sad I know, haha, but that's why I love the contradiction of a happier sounding melody and upbeat production!