interviews
STEPHANIE STRAND
When Stephanie Strand starts singing, you might be surprised by the beauty of her songs. But sing her the praises... Californian Stephie has her doubts... 'I'm naturally my own worst critic, the worst of all by many orders of magnitude! I always want my songs to be much better than they actually are.'
When did you start playing music?
I was 15 or 16 when I first started trying to understand the guitar. I didn't bother taking lessons because I'd already tried that with the piano. It was there that I realized playing by ear was much more enjoyable! At the very least, it allowed for more mistakes!
We love your songs, and you seem to be surprised by that... why?
Admittedly it always tends to be a surprise when someone expresses interest in my music. Perhaps because I view it as fairly amateur stuff. ... Well, it is! Though, of course, it's difficult to side-step perfectionism. So I'm naturally my own worst critic -- the worst of all by many orders of magnitude! I always want my songs to be much better than they actually are.
What is the secret of writing a song?
It's hard to say that there exists any secret to writing songs. It just ... happens, usually. But, I've found that the easiest way to start or finish a song is to forget that it's being written. Focusing too much on the process can really jeopardize not only the quality of a song but whether or not it makes it to completion. This mostly applies to melody; lyrics, on the other hand, do need special attention and critical thought.
How would you describe a perfect song?
The best songs, I think, express ideas that are important and interesting by way of an amazing melody. Melody is a huge thing for me.
Do you consider releasing an album?
I never have thought about releasing an album -- that's for professionals, right? But I suppose I would consider giving a collection of recordings to anyone interested.
What would you like to reach as a musician?
Really I just write music for fun ... actually it's more of an uncontrollable urge than a form of recreation. So my goals as a musician aren't grand or involved, mainly because I'm very shy about it. If anyone hears my music by whatever means and enjoys it, then I am very honored (if not surprised!).
What do you think about 123musicnow?
Very cool and has been very kind to me! Thanks so much for your support.
