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Interview: Tiffany Sayers
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What got you into music, and if you had not gotten into music what would you be doing today?
Growing up my family always listened to music after dinner, when they had people over, and especially at family gatherings. We would dance and sing together, listening to great artists like Janis Joplin, Tina Turner, Eric Clapton, Creedence Clearwater Revival, and Prince. That is when my love and appreciation for music began. As I got older, I discovered I had a real talent for singing, and my relationship with music continued to grow. If I had not gotten into music as a creator, I would probably be a music executive. I can’t see myself not being involved with music in some type of way.
What do you like to do when you are not playing music and how does that influence your creativity?
I love to dine out at restaurants with my pooch or with friends, work out, volunteer my time with various non-profits, and travel. Fun fact I took a solo trip to Greece in 2019. It was beautiful and introspective, a trip I’ll never forget. Spending time alone and with others and learning about and experiencing other cultures influence my creativity because I gain a deeper perspective on my life and the lives of others. I can write with a better understanding of my feelings and experiences and can put myself in other people’s shoes to tell their stories in a more compelling way.
How long has music been your career?
The last several years, but I was part-time on and off before that. I’ve always worked other jobs in addition to doing music to help support my musical endeavors and ensure my financial security.
Where are you based out of and how did that influence your music?
I live in Los Angeles, being here has helped me network with some extremely talented musicians and writers who I have learned from and who have helped me grow as an artist and songwriter.
Tell me about the best and worst shows you have played.
My favorite show was at the legendary House of Blues Sunset Strip mainstage. I had a band of 7 at the time and we rocked it! I loved the vibe, the energy, and the sound. I don't have a worst per se, but I had a virtual performance recently, and during my favorite part of my song, the internet got choppy and the sound got distorted. It was a bummer to watch back, but hopefully the audience was forgiving.
Tell me about your favorite venue to play at, and do you have any places you want to play that you have not already?
I love playing at The Mint, another famous venue in LA. It has a down-home intimate feel, and everyone comes to have a good time. I would love to play at Hotel Cafe once they open back up. It’s a super cool venue, and the talent is impeccable there.
If you could play any show with any lineup who would be on the ticket?
The Hollywood Bowl with H.E.R., Justin Timberlake, Dua Lipa, JoJo, Erykah Badu, and Sade.
What is some advice that you would give to someone who is just getting into music?
When opportunities arise, go for them! Don't let fear take over; act now.
If you could go back in time and give yourself advice, what would it be?
I’d say: Just go for it, stop being in your head so much. You have what it takes, don't doubt yourself.
Of your songs which one means the most to you and why?
I wrote a song called Missing Your Love. I never officially released it, but I performed it at many of my shows. The song gave me more confidence as a songwriter because the lyrics and melodies were so strong, and they resonated heavily with my audience.
Which songs are your favorite to play and which get requested the most?
I absolutely love covering Dreams by Fleetwood Mac and performing my latest single, My Body Knows. I get requests for So Good off my last EP, 12:22,and No Diggity by Blackstreet (definitely a crowd-pleaser).
What is the creative process for you, and what inspires you to write your music?
I love how it feels to create something brand new and tell a story of mine or one I have witnessed. It's like painting on a blank canvas. The freedom of expression makes me feel alive. Writing the song is one part of that, and the other is singing and performing it. Usually, it starts with collaborating with a producer to create the right track for the mood/style I want. I’ll bring song references, lyric ideas, etc., and the producer will use those for inspiration, or I’ll listen to what the producer already has in their catalog. Once I pick a track, it becomes the inspiration for the lyrics and melodies that I will write. I just let it flow naturally and what happens happens.
What kinds of messages do you like to get across in your music?
Messages about the different facets of love and believing in yourself.
Do you ever have disagreements when collaborating and how do you get past them?
I always fight for my creative vision, but I’m willing to compromise, and I communicate respectfully. The collaborators I have worked with are on the same page, so thankfully, there has always been a productive way forward.
What are your plans for the future, and do you have anything that you want to spotlight that is coming up?
I can't wait until live performances come back in LA so I can get on stage, and next month I plan to start working on new music. Stay connected with me on my socials because there is more to come!