Interview: Upcoming Singer-Song Writer

Blogosphere, I have returned! Today, I'm doing something rather exciting. A few days ago, I was told all about aspiring singer-song writer Hayley Solano via e-mail by her manager, and since then, have decided to conduct an interview with her. Lured yet? Because you definitely should be. Whether you're in the same position yourself or just simply have the ability to read, I suggest you continue on and see what went down.

Question 1: How long have you been interested in pursuing music as your career?

I think the moment I realized I could write a song, I was hooked on the idea of pursuing music. I fell in love with the idea of being able to share my stories with other people in a very honest and vulnerable way. 

Question 2: Who would you say are your biggest musical influences?

I've been influenced by several artists for a variety of reasons. Lyrically, I'm inspired by anyone who can tell a story and paint a vivid picture for their listeners. I can always rely on Parachute for lyric inspiration, especially their album, 'The Way It Was'. I also love songs with a strong message. I think Mary Lambert is fearless when it comes to songwriting, I've been inspired by her passion and bravery. Sonically, I love artists like Skylar Grey and The Civil Wars. 

Question 3: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In 10 years, I would love to have released music I'm proud of and excited to share, traveled to new places to tell my stories on stage, and be making a positive impact in people's lives, having inspired others along the way. 

Question 4: What got you interested in music?

I became really interested in music when I realized how powerful a song truly is. I remember being in high school and like any other teenager, experiencing moments that made me feel misunderstood or alone. Those were the moments I would turn to music. The idea that someone who I had never met could write a song about his or her life, yet it sounded like it was about mine, was magical to me. 

Question 5: You have a lovely voice, have you had any formal training?

Thank you so much! I recently started training over the summer and I've really been enjoying it and learning a ton!

Question 6: Where do you get inspiration for writing your original songs?

Inspiration for writing songs almost always comes from personal experience. Songwriting is my way of making sense of what's going on in my life. I also really enjoy writing in retrospect, so many of my songs are romanticized stories about memories and have a nostalgic feel. 

Question 7: How long have you been playing the guitar?

I've been playing for almost 4 years. 

Question 8: What are your favourite songs on the radio at the moment?

'Girls Chase Boys' by Ingrid Michaelson is one of my favourites on the radio right now. It's so cheerful and sweet. I've also been enjoying 'Maps' by Maroon 5 and 'Ain't It Fun' by Paramore . . . and of course 'Stay With Me' by Sam Smith - what a soulful voice!

Question 9: What music genre do you prefer?

I love singer-songwriter/acoustic music. The more raw and stripped down, the better! But since I'm particularly drawn to storytelling, I'll love any song with at least one lyric that will make me cry, regardless of what genre it is. 

So that's officially the end of my seriously tiny, little interview. I hope you  found it vaguely entertaining, because interviews are always fun and a good way to shake things up a bit. If you're interested in checking out Hayley's various social media pages (which I seriously think you should), hop on over to her website, Facebook page, Twitter site, Instagram account, or blog. Plus, I suggest you have a look at her recent music video on Youtube called 'If I Was There', you certainly won't regret it. Now go on and return to reality. Til' next time . . .

Annabel xx