Interview: Lexie Martin
What got you into music, and if you had not gotten into music what would you be doing today?
I've always loved music from as long as I can remember. My parents were very encouraging and put me in music lessons early on. What draws me to music is how deep of a connection you can form with it on an emotional level. If I was not a musician I would love to be a stylist. Fashion is an excellent form of self expression.
What do you like to do when you are not playing music and how does that influence your creativity?
When I'm not working on music I love to go to dance classes. Dancing is an incredible art form and a beautiful way of storytelling. That storytelling aspect is what really influences my creativity. When I write my songs, I want to take you on a journey and tell an engaging story.
How long has music been your career?
I've been singing and performing since I was really little. I started taking singing lessons when I was 8 years old and began auditioning for musicals and singing competitions ever since. In 2018 I moved out to Los Angeles to pursue music full time.
Where are you based out of and how did that influence your music?
I'm currently based in Los Angeles. The music culture and accessibility has influenced my music in a very positive way. By being in LA I'm able to collaborate with incredible artists like Nash Overstreet, Ryan Lialier and Juliet Piper who I admire very much.
Tell me about the best and worst shows you have played.
In September of 2019 I had a very stressful show. I had hired a drummer who unfortunately had no sense of rhythm. This was discovered at the rehearsal right before the show so the day of the show I had to find a brand new drummer while letting my current drummer go. It was very stressful and uncomfortable to say the least, but ultimately it was a good show. Lesson learned, ALWAYS go with referrals and ask to hear/see their work before hiring. But recently in August I had a show that was really wonderful. I pulled in a great crowd, felt incredibly supported and played with an incredible band of musicians. My best shows are when the band is in sync with each other and the audience vibes with you. Connecting with others is my favorite aspect of performing and every show where the crowd is vibing with me and my band is a great show.
Tell me about your favorite venue to play at, and do you have any places you want to play that you have not already?
My favorite venue to play at that I've already played at is definitely the Hotel Cafe. Excellent lighting and sound and a wonderful staff. My biggest dream is to play Madison Square Garden. Large dream, but I love to dream big.
If you could play any show with any lineup, who would be on the ticket?
I love this question! I would love to do a show with Jojo, Demi Lovato and/or Lizzo. Such power house women! They are incredible talents and bring amazing energy to their shows.
What is some advice that you would give to someone who is just getting into music?
Network! Network, network, network! Do not be afraid to introduce yourself and put yourself out there. Show up to shows and get to know people. Additionally, work with others based on referral. Scammers are very real and will try to take advantage of your talent and time. Follow your gut and have fun with it. If you're doing what you love, you'll never "work" a day in your life.
If you could go back in time and give yourself advice, what would it be?
Don't put your dreams on hold. Follow your gut. Enjoy the moment.
Of your songs which one means the most to you and why?
This is a hard question because each song is like my baby. Each song comes from a very real place and is crafted with love and care. Can I pick 3? "I Can", "Extra", and "SUPERPOWER" are songs that were written specifically to empower people who feel under represented and who go against the grain. I am a big supporter of mental health awareness and body positivity. These 3 songs encompass those ideals in a meaningful and uplifting way and I am so proud of them. You being you is what is needed. You being you is more than enough. And you loving yourself for exactly who you are is everything.
Which songs are your favorite to play and which get requested the most?
My favorite songs to play are actually the 3 I just listed above. "I Can", "Extra" and "SUPERPOWER" are so awesome to perform. I love the messages of these songs. "Extra" gets requested the most. It is my body positive anthem. "Big or small you got it all, but I'm feeling my Extra". Lean into your Extra, whatever that may be for you. Your Extra is beautiful and it's what makes you so special.
What is the creative process for you, and what inspires you to write your music?
For me, I love to think of a concept first. Maybe it's being in a relationship, a break up, self empowerment, etc. Once I have the concept, I'll sit at my piano and try to get a melody going. Once I have the melody, the words follow. Once I have that, I am ready to bring it to the studio and let my producer work their magic. For a few of my songs I've also had the pleasure of collaborating with cowritters. I absolutely love getting to work with other artists to create something truly magical. What inspires me to write music are my feelings. I write what I feel. I write what I feel in the hopes that anyone else who is feeling the same things knows that they are not alone. I write music to be there with the listener on their best day and on their worst day. It's my way of giving them a hug and saying "I got you. You're not alone".
What kinds of messages do you like to get across in your music?My message in my music is love. Whoever is listening, I want them to feel loved and empowered. My message to you is that you are worthy of love from others and most importantly, you are worthy of self love.
Do you ever have disagreements when collaborating and how do you get past them?
I generally vibe with everyone I work with. I'm big on active listening. If I feel differently than you, I want to make sure you feel heard and respected when I pitch my idea. Compromise is also an option. It doesn't have to be all or nothing. What matters is that the song is born from a place of love. I have only ever had one instance when I had to stop the collaboration and that's because the producer got verbally and emotionally abusive with me. Respect for me and the process is a big deal to me. That interaction was a huge lesson to A) have a contract B) stand up for myself and C) do not just start working with anyone who slides into your DM's. Referrals are a must.
What are your plans for the future, and do you have anything that you want to spotlight that is coming up?
My plans for the future are continuing to make more music and perform. I'm currently working on a music video for my new single that is available on streaming platforms, "SUPERPOWER". I would love to highlight "SUPERPOWER". It just dropped on October 10th in honor of World Mental Health Day. The song highlights that even on days when you feel really low, you are still worthy of self love and how it is important to take time for yourself. It was co-written with Juliet Piper and produced by Ryan Lalier. These two artists are absolutely incredible and I cannot endorse them enough. Please definitely take a listen and keep an eye out for the music video coming soon!