Interview with Zoe Infante of Bittersweethearts

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

Growing up in a musical family had a profound impact on my journey into music. My dad, a musician to this day, exposed me to a diverse range of genres that shaped my taste and ultimately inspired me to pursue a career in music.

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

When I'm not performing, you can find me spending time with friends or trying to keep my apartment organized. While I enjoy unwinding with loved ones, I must admit that my focus has shifted to preparing our debut album for release. Once we've shared our unreleased music with the world, I'll dive back into writing with renewed inspiration.

How long has your band been around?

Bittersweethearts has been making music for a little over two years now.

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

Bittersweethearts is based in Los Angeles, and I personally grew up in Long Beach. Coming out of the SoCal music scene has significantly influenced my sound, reflecting the diverse styles and genres that emerge from this vibrant community.

How did you come up with the name of your band and what does it mean to you?

The name Bittersweethearts was born out of a transitional phase in my life, where I was experiencing a mix of emotions – hence, bittersweet. I also liked the idea of "sweethearts," so I combined the two to create a name that's both meaningful and catchy. Plus, who doesn't love a good pun?

Tell me about your most memorable shows.

One of my most memorable experiences was during our European tour. Seeing fans sing along to our unreleased songs after a few bars was truly special – it was a surreal moment that reminded me of the power of music to connect people across borders.

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

I've had the pleasure of playing at some iconic LA venues, including the Whiskey and the Viper Room. As for dream venues, I'd love to take the stage at the Greek Theatre and the Forum in LA one day. The Cavern in Liverpool UK is definitely on my list too.

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

That's a tough one, but if I had to choose, I'd say The Garden, Mac DeMarco, Blondie, The Cure, No doubt, The Paranoyds, and The Rolling Stones.

What is some advice that you would give to someone who is just getting into playing in a band and some advice that you would give to your younger self?

To anyone starting out, I'd say keep pushing forward, stay true to yourself, and your audience will find you. Don't be discouraged by setbacks, just keep going.

If you could go back in time and give yourselves advice, what would it be?

I've never been one to dwell on the past. I truly believe that every experience, no matter how big or small, has led me to where I am today. I wouldn't change a thing.

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

I'm really excited about an upcoming song called "Teenage Divorcee." It's still unreleased, but it's going to be a special one.

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

Hands down, "Teenage Divorcee" and "Electric Baby" are my top picks. Keep an ear out – they'll be released soon!

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

Life experiences and touring have been huge inspirations for me. Being on the road, meeting new people, and seeing new places always sparks something new and exciting.

What kinds of messages do you like to get across in your music?

My goal is to create relatable music that resonates with listeners. I explore a wide range of emotions and themes; from serious and heartfelt to lighthearted and humorous. I want my music to be authentic and reflective of the human experience.

Do you ever have disagreements in the band? How do you get past them?

Disagreements are just part of the journey, you know? We've learned to listen to each other, find common ground, and compromise. It's all about keeping it real, respecting each other's vibes, and making great music together.

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

We're thrilled to announce that our debut album will be released later in 2025. To build anticipation, we'll be dropping singles throughout the year. Additionally, we have tours lined up, and we can't wait to share those details with our fans soon so check out www.bittersweetheartsband.com