Question and Answer Session with WFUV
to find a place where my heart belongs.” I think the idea of belonging is complex and ever-evolving for me. As an artist, I often wrestle with feelings of impostor syndrome and insecurity. We live in a world that constantly tries to define us by race, gender, and our perceived place in society. As a Black woman with Mexican heritage, I am acutely aware of the biases and prejudices that exist. I try to navigate these challenges by creating music that is deeply personal and explores my own experiences and emotions. It’s a way for me to reclaim my narrative and assert my voice in a world that often tries to silence or marginalize people who look like me.
“Portrait of My Heart” also delves into themes of isolation and anxiety. These are emotions that many people have experienced, especially during the pandemic. How have these feelings influenced your creative process and how do you address them in your music?
Isolation and anxiety are themes that have always been present in my music, but they definitely took on new meaning during the pandemic. Like many people, I struggled with feelings of loneliness and uncertainty. It forced me to confront my own fears and insecurities. I found that writing music was a way for me to process these emotions and connect with others who might be feeling the same way. I think music has a unique ability to create empathy and understanding between people, even when we are physically apart. In my new album, I wanted to explore these themes in a way that felt authentic and honest. I hope that listeners can find solace in the music and know that they are not alone in their struggles.
Your music is known for its eclectic blend of genres and influences, from punk to art-pop to dreamy synths. How do you approach genre in your music and what do you hope listeners take away from your unique sound?
Genre has never been something that I’ve been particularly interested in. I’ve always been drawn to music that defies categorization and challenges traditional boundaries. I think that’s why my music is so eclectic and hard to define. I want listeners to be transported into a world that is entirely my own, where they can lose themselves in the music and forget about the labels and expectations that often accompany genre. I hope that my music can be a source of joy and inspiration for people who are looking for something different and unique.