Interview with Victoria Houser

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

Music has been an integral part of my life since childhood. Growing up in the coastal town of Hubbards, Nova Scotia, I was surrounded by the musical atmosphere that’s engrained in East Coast culture and that fostered my love for singing. If I hadn't pursued music, I would have had to find something that allowed me to pursue my passion for storytelling.

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

I love to read, watch films, travel to new places and meet new people, and spend time with my family. Nature, the people who shaped me, and storytelling inspire my creativity significantly, and I like to weave these themes into the songs I write.

How long have you been making music?

I started writing my own music in 2019, but I’ve been singing my whole life.

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

I currently call Toronto, Ontario, home. Although physically distant from my East Coast roots, the essence of my upbringing in Nova Scotia remains deeply ingrained in my music. The vibrant music scene and supportive community in Toronto have also played a pivotal role in shaping my musical journey.

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

My friends pushed me to perform my first show at Bluebird Bar in Toronto back in 2019. Up until then I had been making appearances with other musicians and finding any excuse I could to get on stage, but had yet to do my own show. They convinced the owner to give me a shot because I was too shy to ask. When I finally got on stage a few weeks later, I knew I wanted to keep going. That experience then kickstarted my songwriting journey. Turns out, it was exactly what I needed to get started, and I haven't looked back since.

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

The Bluebird holds a special spot in my heart—I perform there frequently now. It's been amazing witnessing world-class musicians take the stage there over the years, as I was one of the first to ever play there. There's also this great spot called Tuna Blue that’s mentioned in my song 'Hubbards' (‘the cafe by the harbour’) that I love playing at whenever I'm back home. Eventually, I’d love to play The Shore Club, an iconic venue also in Hubbards that’s hosted renowned Canadian bands like Wintersleep and The Sheepdogs.

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

A dream lineup for me would include artists like Gillian Welch, Neko Case, Lucinda Williams, Anne Murray, and more musicians who have influenced and inspired me over the years.

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?

For aspiring musicians, I'd emphasize the importance of authenticity. Stay true to yourself and create music that resonates with your experiences and emotions. To my younger self, I'd encourage taking risks, embracing vulnerability, and understanding that the journey itself holds invaluable lessons.

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

Each song holds a special place in my heart as they are all reflective of different points of my life. However, ‘By the Ocean’ perhaps feels the most poignant. It’s a heartfelt tribute to my family and Nova Scotia, encapsulating the essence of my roots and the cherished memories that shaped who I am today.

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

The response to my debut single, 'When You're Sober,' has been truly heartening. Hearing that it's described as 'addictive' and having people reach out to say that they can’t get it out of their heads is the highest compliment.

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

My creative process often starts with a spark of emotion or an experience that strikes a chord within me. It could be a moment, a feeling, or a story that I feel compelled to share. I find inspiration in my surroundings, nature, personal experiences, my roots, and the stories of the people around me.

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

I always aim to evoke a sense of nostalgia, longing, and the emotional pull toward cherished memories and the places and people that shape who we are.

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

We only just released the full EP, titled ‘Somewhere Close to Home’, and I’d love for everyone to give it a listen and tell me what they think! I’m also getting back in the studio in the early new year, so expect a flurry of new songs in 2024.

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

Instagram: @victoriahousermusicTikTok: @victoriahousermusicWebsite: www.victoriahousermusic.com