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Interview: Constanza Herrero
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What got you into music, and if you had not gotten into music what would you be doing today?
Music has always been part of my life. Since very little I can’t remember not feeling moved by it, whether to dance to it or sing. But during my teenage years, music became a place where I was able to process my thoughts, my pain, and everything, which made me become very passionate about it and I decided to write songs for the rest of my life.
If I had not gotten into music I would have chosen either journalism or counseling.
What do you like to do when you are not playing music and how does that influence your creativity?
I love serving others. It gives me perspective and refreshes my purpose. I am reminded that I want to use my music as an instrument to bless others and not make my career about myself.
How long has music been your career?
I was a teenager when I released my first EP with original songs, which then gave me the chance to be part of a TV series where I was able not only to perform my songs but allowed me to license my music for the soundtrack.
Where are you based out of and how did that influence your music?
I am currently living in Los Angeles, after almost 9 years living in Australia and being raised in Chile. Having lived in different countries, learning from different cultures, has really been a blessing and it has without a doubt shaped the sound of my compositions.
Tell me about the best and worst shows you have played.
This is a hard one! I honestly treasure every show I’ve been on, no matter how big or small. My last show before the pandemic was in December 2019 in Chile. It was super special as it was the first time playing there after I left to move to Australia. Seeing the support of the people that have accompanied me from the very beginning of my career was so special and humbling, and seeing my beloved family in the audience was very moving too.
In regards to worst shows, I honestly can only remember some gigs that weren’t part of my original music project but cover gigs that I’ve done like weddings where the atmosphere of the party wasn’t very comfortable to sing at and got clients that weren’t very kind.
Tell me about your favorite venue to play at, and do you have any places you want to play that you have not already?
Here in LA I love The Hotel Café. I have always loved the vibe of that venue when I have performed. I love how intimate it gets, and the different kinds of musicians you meet. In Australia, there is also a venue that I treasure a lot called The Ellington Jazz Club. There I had many important gigs and it always felt like home.
I would love to play one day at the Troubadour in West Hollywood, and if we are thinking really big, the Hollywood Bowl would be a dream.
If you could play any show with any lineup, who would be on the ticket?
Ingrid Michaelson, Regina Spektor, Tori Kelly, Esperanza Spalding, Corinne Bailey Rae, Lianne La Havas.
What is some advice that you would give to someone who is just getting into music?
To question themselves why they want to do a music career, because that answer is going to dictate the steps forward. I hope their answer is bigger and more meaningful than just wanting the fleeting experience of “fame”. I would also advise them by saying to not be afraid to make mistakes. To be genuine with their art, and to work really hard but to not get lost in it. Surround yourself with people and activities that keep you grounded and with a clear perspective.
If you could go back in time and give yourself advice, what would it be?
Do not be afraid to try. It might not work how you wanted but you’ll never fail if you learn something from it.
Of your songs which one means the most to you and why?
This is a hard one to respond to. I do not have a favourite one, but my song “Caged” is very special to me as it was the first song I wrote in which I allowed myself to be vulnerable and open up about my struggles with anxiety. That song really opened the door to a whole new chapter in my life as a songwriter.
Which songs are your favorite to play and which get requested the most?
There is a song I wrote called Packing Up, which I also released in Spanish called Me Voy. I always have fun playing this song as I sing it mixing both languages, and people really enjoy the Latin groove of it, which makes the whole atmosphere of the performance very entertaining.
What is the creative process for you, and what inspires you to write your music?
My songwriting process is so unpredictable. Some songs I finish after months of starting to write them and with others I feel ready in a day. I have learnt through the years to get better at creating a better habit to write even when I am not inspired, to not wait for that “magical” moment. A few things inspire my writing, one is the motivation to help however I can those suffering, those who are lost, and I write from my own experiences or about what I observe in other people’s lives. I also write in a way to process my own thoughts…
What kinds of messages do you like to get across in your music?
All I want as an artist is to be an instrument to accompany people through their challenging journeys, by sharing my own experiences and encouraging them to seek hope in the midst of it.
Do you ever have disagreements when collaborating and how do you get past them?
I thankfully haven’t had any big disagreements when collaborating but it is a humbling experience to work with people that might have different ideas from you. Being able to listen and try new things is always a growing experience.
What are your plans for the future, and do you have anything that you want to spotlight that is coming up?
At the moment I am promoting the first single of my upcoming project called “I Didn’t Care”. It has only been 3 days since the release and it’s been so nice to hear the kind feedback from people. I will be releasing the music video soon too, which I am very excited about. I am planning to do more shows now that things are opening up again and I can’t wait to release the rest of the songs I’ve been recording!
Music: https://constanzaherrero.hearnow.com/
Website: https://www.constanzaherrero.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/constanzaherrero/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConstanzaHerreroOfficial/