Interview with KASIA

What got you into music, and if you had not gotten into music what would you be doing today? 

I've been into music since I can remember. My dad introduced me to The Beatles and The Rolling Stones when I was a kid, and my mom used to play meditation music for us at bedtime. I began learning classical piano early on, which led me to start writing lyrics. If I hadn't gotten into music, it's hard to say exactly what I'd be doing today, but it would likely involve some other creative pursuit or perhaps something in a field where I could express myself. I am very much into sound healing and enjoy the business side of the music industry.

What do you like to do when you are not playing music and how does that influence your creativity?

Outside of music, I find fulfillment in various activities that enrich my life and fuel my creativity. I play sound bowls and other healing instruments for myself and others on a daily basis. I love meditating and being in nature, particularly by the ocean and in forests. I get a lot of inspiration just being near the ocean. I'm kind of a nerd - I love reading occult books and learning the language of tarot. I'm at the gym a lot and I love yoga.

Spending quality time with my five-year-old, especially during our ocean outings, brings joy and offers a unique perspective that often sparks a lot of creativity.

As a vegan, I love discovering new plant-based spots in Vancouver or making dinner with friends. Recently, I've been traveling a lot and organizing retreats in cool locations. I have always really loved the inspiration and new energy that these kinds of adventures can create.

How long have you been making music?

I've been making music for quite some time now. It all began when I started playing piano at the age of 6 and simultaneously began writing lyrics. Growing up, I was involved in my church's music scene, singing with the live band during services. The first song I ever wrote was around the age of 14, and I still remember it today. However, it wasn't until my early 20s that I really got into professional recording. I met the producer of the band Fan Death (Szam) during this time and was asked to step in for their lead singer, Dandi Wind, following some internal conflicts. Although the music wasn't exactly my style, I jumped on the opportunity to learn about production techniques and how to use a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation). This experience sparked my dedication, leading me to experiment extensively until I eventually began producing music independently. It's been quite the journey and I have loved every moment of it. 

Where are you based and how did that influence your music?

I'm currently based in Vancouver, Canada. Living just a few blocks from both the beach and Stanley Park is great; I find a lot of inspiration there, especially during the summer. Being surrounded by nature always boosts my creativity. Despite the rain for much of the year, it has its perks—it sets a mellow tone for my music. Plus, it kind of pushes me to stay indoors and focus on my work, similar to what I've heard about London's work ethic due to their weather.

Tell me about your most memorable shows, if you haven’t played live what is your vision for a live show?

One of my most memorable shows was at Rifflandia last September, where I performed with my live band. It was an incredible experience and we received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the audience. Some fans even said our set as the best of the night. This was the first-time being recognized after a show and being asked for photos.

What is your favorite venue to play at, and do you have any places you want to play that you have not already?

I love playing outdoors and at new locations. I have done a ton of shows all over Vancouver at different popup locations – at the beach, forest, rooftops and at yacht parties.

If you could play any show with any lineup, who would be on the ticket?

How much am I allowed to dream right now? Haha. Lately I have been really inspired by Caroline Polachek, Grimes – long-time fan of other producers like Flume and Disclosure. Also, love how Jhene Aiko has also been infusing crystal singing bowl frequencies into electronic music – which is something my band and I have been doing for some time as well.

What is some advice that you would give to someone who is just getting into making music and some advice that you would give to your younger self?

Make music that you like and don’t write from what the West calls “ego”. Be genuine and just keep growing with your artform. The most powerful lyrics that I have ever written came out of my mouth when I had so much pent-up energy inside that there was nowhere else for them to go. Sing and hum to yourself often. Own your art and everything about who you are and what you stand for. If something feels off or out of alignment, it almost always is. Pivot and come back to yourself. End of the day, it’s your journey – no one else’s’. Make genuine, authentic music and art for yourself and your people will find you.

Of your songs which one means the most to you and why? 

There are a number of my songs that mean a lot to me as it speaks to different growth periods in my life. It’s hard to name just one but the first full song I wrote and recorded in Toronto (“Strange Paradise”) 12 years ago will always mark a special point in my life. I essentially wrote a poem about the struggles of growing up in the fashion industry and put it to music. I won a contest when I was 14 and started modeling soon after. It was a lot of pressure. Putting my words to music has always given me this otherworldly outlet to alleviate the stresses that I encounter and write about. Almost like lifting your words up to be dealt with by a higher power or something.

Which songs are your favorite to play and which get requested the most?

It's difficult to choose favorites because each song holds significance to me based on the time and circumstances in which it was created. Currently, I'm in a state of evolution, and the music I'm producing reflects that. My older songs represent a different era of my artistry, while my newer material embodies where I am creatively today. As for requests, it varies depending on the audience and their familiarity with my music. However, I'm always open to playing fan favorites and adapting to the energy of the crowd. 

What is your creative process, and what inspires you to write your music?

My creative process is deeply influenced by nature, especially being near the ocean. I find that some of my best ideas come out when I'm least expecting them. Sometimes, I'll start singing a melody I’ve never heard before as a way to lift up feelings – I sing my feelings I guess lol. I also draw inspiration from my dreams. More than once, I'll hear music in my sleep and quickly wake up to record it in voice notes on my phone. Song ideas can be fleeting, similar to a dream right before waking up. I've learned that capturing them immediately is crucial, as they can easily slip away if not preserved.

Do you have messages that you like to get across in your music? if so please tell me about them.

In my music, I strive to convey messages of empowerment for minorities and a call to elevate collective consciousness. Initially, many of my songs delved into the superficiality of the modeling industry, experiences with abusive partners, and the complexities of love and loss. However, my recent work focuses more on themes of gratitude and vulnerability, aiming to inspire others to embrace their authenticity. Recognizing the underrepresentation of women in the music industry, particularly in hip hop, I've grown weary of the objectification and disrespect directed towards women. As I refine my vocal ideas, I'm conscious of crafting lyrics that are more poetic and abstract, yet still carry powerful messages. Ultimately, I hope to contribute to a shift in societal norms and foster a more inclusive and respectful environment within the music industry.

Do you have any new singles, videos, or albums out that you would like to tell me and your fans about? 

Yes! I just released a new song called “Heartstrings” from an album that I’m working on. The music video just came out as well. This is the first time I edited a full music video and it was a lot of fun. I am currently working on a single that is a collaborative project with The Funk Hunters. I have a lot a new things coming out soon that I can’t wait to share!

What are your plans for the future, and do you have anything that you want to spotlight that is coming up?

Yes! A new album is currently in the works. Heartstrings is the first song of that album. I have already started filming a new music video which is one of my favourite things to do lately. I plan on dropping my next track very soon!

How can your fans best keep up to date with you, any socials you want people to check out?

Absolutely. I use Instagram and Tiktok most often. People can also reach out on my website.

“Heartstrings” Music Video: youtube.com/watch?v=C6b2Fv1CTf8

KASIA Social Links Instagram: @KASIASMusic Facebook: @KASIA.OFC X: @KASIAMusic_ TikTok: @kasiamusic_