Interview with LESS KILLJOY

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

When I was younger, I remember feeling directionless. I didn’t know where I belonged (I still kind of don’t to be completely honest) and I definitely didn’t know what I wanted to do. All of that changed when I was a teen and I first started going to shows. I’ll never forget standing in the crowd, in complete awe. It was like a bolt of lightning hit me. I knew I wanted to be on stage, and I knew I wanted to be on stage singing my own songs. If I hadn’t gotten into music, I have no idea where I’d be. I hope I would have found something that I was as passionate about as I am about music- maybe something to do with animals... even though I’m allergic to most :(

haha

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

Over the years I’ve learned that balance is crucial. If all I do is music, my mental health starts to go downhill, so I like to hang out with friends when I'm not making music. I like having fun more than anything so as long as we’re laughing and having a good time, I'm good.

How long have you been making music?

A long time haha

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

I’m based in Toronto! The city itself is so inspiring. I’m a pretty visual person so when I’m writing a song, I like to listen to it while I drive around the city at night. If it evokes any kind of emotion, I know I’m on the right track.

Tell me about your most memorable shows, if you haven’t played live what is your vision for a live show?

I haven’t played a show since before the pandemic- which is so sad because I love playing live! I miss it- but I'm excited and nervous (in a good way) to get back out there. My most memorable show I’ve ever played was the second last show before the world shut down. It was just the energy in the room.

Have you ever gone out one night and there’s just magic in the air?

That was that show- everything felt right. I felt so connected to myself, my music and the audience. It was special and it solidified how much I want to continue to play shows.

You’ll just have to come to a show one day!

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

The coolest venue that I've ever played a show at was definitely ‘Whisky a Go Go’in LA. All of the iconic bands that ever played there. The history - it's legendary, and you can feel it!

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

I love this question but it’s tough because I love SO many artists: But my dream line-up would be Paramore, The 1975, The neighborhood, twenty one pilots, Rihanna(of course), Doja Cat, Deb Never, Junior Varsity, Jean Dawson. There’s more but I can’t think of them right now haha!

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?

Trust your gut, It never steers you wrong. I’ve ignored my intuition too many times and the outcome was not great. Trust your gut and trust yourself.

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

This is like asking “who’s your favorite child” haha I love ALL of my songs the same- for different reasons;) They all have a special place, because all of my songs are about pieces of my life.

Which songs are your favorite to play and which get requested the most?

What is your creative process, and what inspires you to write your music?
It’s a little bit different every time. Sometimes a phrase pops into my head, sometimes I just grab my guitar, start strumming random chords and singing random melodies and see where that takes me. Usually, something I've been going through comes out- even if it’s in a single word...Writing songs, for me, is what I imagine it's like to catch fireflies. It’s difficult, but when you finally do, it’s magic.

Do you have messages that you like to get across in your music, if so please tell me about them?

Truthfully, I’m still trying to figure out what my message is- but what immediately and constantly comes to mind is to tell people to be yourself, boldly and shamelessly, because it’s the most challenging thing to do in this world. As cliche as it sounds. Being who you are allows other people to be who they are.

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

AHHH yes!!! I have my first EP coming out on Dec 2, 2022! It’s called “Pink Grenade” and I’m so excited for it to be out in the world!

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

You can find me on all platforms as @lesskilljoy !!

Thank you so much for hanging out with me<3

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lesskilljoy/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lesskilljoy?lang=en

Twitter: https://twitter.com/LESSKILLJOY