Over the past two years we’ve introduced our readers to Estani, with her thought provoking music, which crosses genre boundaries. She’s made us think too, so we’re very grateful that she’s taken time out to answer a few questions for us.
Hi Estani, thank you so much for speaking to us!
We love your latest single, ‘Tell Me Why’, it really blends so many different styles of music – reggae, pop, rock, jazz – do you feel that this unity in sound is symbolic of what you want to say in the song? For instance, your video expresses that under it all we’re all just people; no matter what our outward appearance, we’re all the same under the skin. Does that make sense, and is it close to what you’re saying?
Hey! Thank you so much for having me and I’m really happy you love the single! Your sentiment and take away from the song/video is so true. Regardless of the labels, differences, and overall outlooks each of us have, we are all still searching for our soul purpose, traveling our own unique life road, and underneath it all, continuously searching for connections that make this life the fullest it can be. Take off everything society places on us, and we all have a unified collective vision of striving to be the best version of ourselves to give to others.
We’re finally coming out of the Covid-19 Pandemic (it seems). How have you been affected by it, and what lessons have you learned, and what changes have you made in your life that you want to take with you into your post-Covid life?
Covid has shown many of us how precious life is. It really leveled the playing field as well, in terms of various careers, particularly careers in the arts. No one was “in demand” for a time, and self reliance and survival for many became imperative in a much different way. I’ve always been my own songwriter, producer, manager, promoter, booking agent, CEO, etc….you name it. However, Covid forced me to slow down, appreciate small moments more, realize the impact my constant grinding was having on those closest to me, and finally, make choices that bring me authentic joy rather than instantaneous gratification. It’s a constant inner battle within myself, but I really try to take time to slow down and evaluate where I’m going, where I am, and where I want to be post covid. Before Covid, I was on autopilot looking for that next big “break” 24/7 whatever that was at that time. In many ways, though it’s been difficult, Covid has changed my perspective for the better.
Who do you find the most inspirational person in your life? What about your music? Who inspires you the most?
My daughter for sure. She is by far the most patient, kind, compassionate, and loving soul I’ve had the honour and privilege of bringing into this world. She came into this world with so much wisdom. I am so glad she picked me to be her mom. As far as my music, I’ve always been inspired by Linda Ronstadt. She’s one of the only artists I know that has been able to crossover into different genres seamlessly while still maintaining a true sound to the style she chooses. There are not too many artists who can do that and have that crossover appeal with their fans. It never mattered to me what she was singing because her voice always carried so much emotion that I could relate to effortlessly.I’m inspired the most by people who are out there giving it their all at a time where it can be very easy to feel overwhelmed and intimidated by the barrage of information being thrown at us by the second. The hardest thing is to start. It truly is. So, when I see someone following their passion through to fruition, it’s always an inspiring thing.
What’s the songwriting process for you, and what was the inspiration for ‘Tell Me Why’? Does the melody come to you first, or the lyrics? Are there any particular instruments you use in your songwriting?
The songwriting process varies from song to song, however, the constant is always, chords, lyrics, melodies. Sometimes, I’ll hear a song that will inspire a hook for myself and I’ll voice memo that right away wherever I am. I will wake up at 4am with a melody in my head and hit that voice memo right away. Other times, I will sit at the piano and play some chords that will elicit a melody. Rarely is it lyrics first. I’m a rhythmic person so I need a melody or chords first in order to know how to phrase my words and syllables. I will also be lyrically inspired many times by world events and will already have a complete idea for a song, and from that point, begin a melodic structure usually by sitting at the piano and using my chord wheel to find the best key and chord structure for the song.
What’s next on the horizon for Estani? What can fans look forward to?
A children’s book complete with a score, an EP, and a series! It’s sooo amazing since I’m working with my daughter on this project. She is the illustrator and has illustrated a beautiful book! The release is set for 09/08/22.
What are the top 3 artists on your playlist? Who should we be looking out for?
Okay, I literally just opened my playlist and listed what the top three are right at this moment 3/23/22. The three at the top are Joy Crookes, SAULT, and Lianne LaHavas.
And finally, a question I ask of everyone I interview. What question do you wish someone would ask you in an interview, but nobody ever does? And what’s the answer to that question?
Well, I loved the playlist question, but. hmmm, okay, here goes:
What city do you think has the best Mexican food, and do you believe TexMex breakfast tacos should be considered a breakfast staple?
San Antonio TX of course! AND YESSS, TexMex breakfast tacos should absolutely be considered a breakfast staple!
Follow Estani online on her website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, to find out more about this incredible artist and her music.
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