Hello iLana, how are you?
Hi Del! I am doing pretty well.
Congratulations on the release of “Summertime Love”, how does it feel?
Thanks so much! It is always nerve-racking but an exciting feeling releasing new music. So far the response has been awesome so I am happy.
Describe it in three words.
Joyful, smooth, groovy
What inspired you to write it?
I wrote “Summertime Love” this summer! It was a really quick turnaround from the writing process to the release. I woke up and it was beautiful outside and for the first time in a while I felt really optimistic and happy about the future and I know those moments can be fleeting so I wanted to capture that feeling. Even in the song I kind of acknowledge how this love might be a temporary one but it is so important to be in the moment and soak up all of that joy while it is here.
You are a singer songwriter from L.A. with a very impressive CV. How did it all begin for you?
Thank you! I have been performing and writing music since I was a kid. I went to college for music business and released my first EP while I was there. I moved to LA in 2017 to pursue a songwriting career!
What did you listen to growing up?
A Lot of R&B, Hip Hop, Motown, Soul. I grew up with Aretha Franklin and Otis Redding but I am a 90s kid so I also loved the pop stuff. TLC, NSYNC, Spice girls etc..
You write songs that encompass all cultures, what was the catalyst for this?
I am multicultural myself but I am also extremely passionate about connecting people. I want to use my music as a tool to unite people from all different backgrounds and walks of life. I think we need to communicate now more than ever.
You have worked with so many different artists what has been a big pinch me moment for you?
I don’t think there is one artist in particular but just being in LA driving by the Hollywood sign everyday on my way to and from sessions is still surreal to me.
How does a typical writing session start for you?
Every time is a little different! I love to collaborate and take time getting the vibe of whoever is in the room!
Sometimes I will have an entire song idea in my head ready to go or at least something that I really want to talk about but other times I start with some sort of production or even just chords and then build melodies, create a concept and then write lyrics!
Covid has impacted the creative industry in a big what has kept you motivated?
My family! No matter what is happening in the world I won’t stop pursing my big dream until I can retire my parents and take care of them
2020 was a time to reflect what did you learn about yourself?
I learned so much! I let go of some toxic relationships that were negatively impacting my life and realized that when you pour positivity into yourself and the people around you it reflects in your life
You live in LA, a city steeped in musical history, what are your three favourite things about it?
I love that LA allows me to connect with creative people from all different walks of life! There is definitely some magic here that can be captured.
What artists are you listening to at the moment?
Victoria Monet, Earth Gang, Silk Sonic, Dominic Fike, Masego, Peach Tree Rascals,
What are you looking forward to next?
Tour! My goal is to go on tour next year. I miss playing shows and connecting with the audience.
