Interview with Izzy Mahoubi

Mar 10, 2023

What got you into music, and if you had not gotten into music what would you be doing today?

When I was eleven I randomly wanted to take guitar lessons at this little mom-and-pop music store. I quickly was encouraged by my teacher to start writing songs, singing out live, and making mistakes. If I didn’t get into music I think I'd really enjoy music journalism (live out my Almost Famous moment).

What do you like to do when you are not playing music and how does that influence your creativity?

I’ve always loved writing poetry. Lately, I've been writing poetry much more when I feel uninspired musically. Sometimes lines from my poems make their way into lyrics. I also try to listen and take in as much art as I can.

How long have you been making music?

Where are you based and how did that influence your music?

I grew up, and currently live in Phoenix, Arizona. The alt rock scene is alive and well here. I would say my greatest musical influence came from visiting Nashville for the first time. Coming back to AZ, I realized I could bring something unique as a singer/songwriter in town.

Tell me about your most memorable live shows?

Having an engaged crowd always elevates a set's energy. On the other hand, I value the shows I’ve played when there’s no one there. One of my favorite shows was opening for Adam Melchor in Arizona. The crowd was so incredibly fun. Getting to share so many of my originals with a crowd that size was incredible. I played an impromptu Taylor Swift medley in which the crowd screamed the lyrics along too which was so fun. The best part of shows like that is when people tell me my songs resonated with them. How powerful songs can be still blows my mind.

What is your favorite venue to play at, and do you have any places you want to play that you have not already?

There’s a venue in Phoenix called Crescent Ballroom that I love playing at. Some of my dream venues include The Ryman , The Grand Ole Opry, and The Van Buren (In Phoenix).

If you could play any show with any lineup, who would be on the ticket?

I love this question. My lineup would include Brandi Carlile, Bleachers, and Taylor Swift.

What is some advice that you would give to someone who is just getting into making music and some advice that you would give to your younger self?

I’d say make all of the mistakes you possibly can, write everyday, play any live show opportunity, and believe that you have something unique that has a place in the world.
Don’t hurry to grow up. Be kind to yourself.

Of your songs which one means the most to you and why?

My recent single, ‘Torn In Two’ is a song I wrote at such a confusing place in my life. I wrote it at the end of highschool when so many relationships in my life were ending all at once. The type of ending when it's no one's fault can be the most painful.

Which songs are your favorite to play?

One of my songs, ‘Cool Guy’ is basically a story about a groupie who falls for a guitarist in a band who turns out to be a poser. The lyrics of that song are so fun to sing and usually make the crowd laugh which is fun in the middle of the set to keep things light hearted :)

What is your creative process, and what inspires you to write your music?

Usually when I am taking in great art I feel more inspired. I try to write every day whether that is lyrics, poetry, or journaling. Growing as a guitarist also inspires me melodically as a little riff can inspire an entire song.

Do you have messages that you like to get across in your music?

Life can be so messy and I just want people to know they are valued and they are enough. It can be so tiring to keep it all together but the songs I write are from an authentic and vulnerable place that I hope resonates with anyone who listens.

Do you have any new singles, videos, or albums out that you would like to tell me and your fans about?

Yes! I recently released a new single and music video for my song, ‘Torn in Two’. This jazzy, nostalgic melody is about growing up and moving on and it’s one of my favorite songs. It was featured in Rolling Stone France which is such an honor!

What are your plans for the future, and do you have anything that you want to spotlight that is coming up?

I am continuing to write and pursue a music career full time. I will be releasing my first E.P. hopefully in June of 2023! It is a collection of songs about growing up, pushing the limits, and accepting change that I can’t wait to share with the world. I hope to start touring in the next few years!!!

How can your fans best keep up to date with you, any socials you want people to check out?

Listen to Izzy Mahoubi wherever you stream music. Emails are such a great way to know what exactly is going on and you can sign up for my email list at izzymahoubi.info. Lastly, all of my social media pages are @IzzyMahoubi :)