A conversation with an up and coming artist Alexa
We are sharing our recent interview with an up and coming singer-keyboardist Alexa Villa. Let’s have a chat with her.
Twist Online : First of all please introduce yourself to our readers.
Alexa : Hi! Alexa here. I’m an LA based artist from San Diego with a big dream of reaching and empowering others by first learning how to love myself, flaws and all.
Twist Online : Who or what inspired you to get into music industry?
Alexa : I come from a musical family growing up in dive bars and going to band rehearsals catered by Arco AMPM’s very own hot dogs and gatorade. I’ve been writing poetry for as long as I can remember and started piano training at age 7. I quickly learned the magic of putting the two together, and the songs started flowing. I still remember the title of my very first original, “Flying Angels” followed by “Spiritual Revival” around that age. Music has always, always been apart of me and has been my saving grace.
Twist Online : Our readers would like to know about your recent single ‘Taking Names’?
Alexa :“Taking Names” is a really fun release for me. I never intended to have such an intense topic. I just started writing and this is what fell out. The encounters I’ve had with men in the industry and the expectations and underestimation of young women inspired this song. There was a while that I was meeting with “producers” or “mentors” or “managers” who just weren’t who they claimed to be. I’d find myself at the end of the night wondering what the heck I was doing there because it sure wasn’t for work.. Or I’d find myself working with “boys” who didn’t take me seriously as a musician and had to push even harder to prove myself just because I’m a “chick”.
Taking Names explores reverse sexism as a reincarnate “haunted” Marilyn Monroe, who was objectified and has come back for revenge. Ironically, it’s set lyrically in a gambling scene, typically seen as a man’s game. I wanted to play with this topic as vulnerability has never really been my strong suit. As an independent woman in a big city, I often times feel tension from men who invite me to the studio to “work” and in turn have ulterior motives; or men who challenge or doubt my abilities due to anything other than sheer talent or creativity. This song speaks for us.
Twist Online : What kind of response you have received from the release?
Alexa : It’s been out for less than 24 hours at this point and I’m overwhelmed with the DM’s and comments I’ve been getting. I’m so stoked and grateful that its reaching people the way it is.
Twist Online : Your EP “ACT I” got good response, you must be very pleased with it?
Alexa : I’m very proud of my EP. “ACT I” was my first official EP release as a solo artist. Like I said, I’ve been performing and writing for my entire life but this EP felt the truest and most honest. It taught me more about myself and I found a deeper sense my artistry. I put a lot of time and love into this EP and it was so much fun to create.
Twist Online : What’s the best part of being a music artist?
Alexa : There are so many great things about being a music artist. It’s my greatest passion and such a gift. Having the freedom to chase my dream on a daily basis is a huge blessing. I love the idea that there was once nothing, and I invested my time reaching into the crazy corners of my head and heart to whip something up and call it art. The best part though, would have to be connecting with people. I’ve been told that my music was keeping someone off drugs. That right there is everything.
Twist Online : Have you set some goals to achieve?
Alexa : Absolutely. Goals are key. I’ve got a Coachella post it note above my bed as we speak. 😉
Twist Online : Are you working on any new project?
Alexa : I’m always working on new projects. Its my job. I write with lots of artists either for my project or theirs. Know that I’ll always have something new in the works. More music. More videos. More concerts.
