Siahna- from The Voice Season 9 to debut EP “Untouchable
Interview conducted on March 5, 2020
by Dan Locke
Originally from Seattle, WA, emerging artist, Siahna possesses all the qualities a fan of an indie pop culture could desire. She dominates with a rich, soulful voice dripping with a texture that conveys her heartfelt, deeply personal lyrics in a way that resonates with the listener. Add to that a bright, relatable, charismatic presence to deliver it all and you have an audience that is invested in the stories she shares through her lyrics.
Dan Locke: What was your up bring?
Siahna: I was born in Tacoma, WA and raised in Auburn, WA. I am half Korean from my dad’s side and half French Canadian from my mom. Since I have two older brothers, I was definitely a tomboy growing up. We would ride quads, go fishing, fix cars, and of course play sports. My dad has always been a big influence in my life. He works as a pilot and because of him, I have had the opportunity to travel all over the world. I feel so grateful because I believe that traveling has had a tremendous impact on my life. I love to immerse myself into different cultures and try different foods from all over. My family has always been supportive of my music. Most musicians don’t have the unconditional support of their families. The fact that my dad was there with me at every open mic and every audition with me growing up is so special and I feel very blessed.
How did you discover music?
I always tell everyone that I have been singing since the womb. However, the point in my life where I truly developed an appreciation for music was in my third-grade music class. My teacher pulled up a video of Ray Charles singing “America the Beautiful” and I fell in love. I felt his soul when he performed and I knew from that day on, I wanted to create and perform music with my soul.
What are your musical roots?
I started off singing Jazz music. My first influences were Ella Fitzgerald, Ray Charles, and Amy Winehouse. However, my appreciation for all music styles impacts how I sing. For my first audition to be on The Voice, I sang Patsy Cline’s “Walking After Midnight”. When I look back on my musical roots, I think all my influences have one thing in common, they all sing with their soul.
How did you get your first guitar and do you still have it?
To be honest, I don’t consider myself a guitar player. I initially taught myself guitar because I didn’t have the money to pay other musicians when I had to perform live. But I do love to play and with the few chords I know, I have written a hell of a lot of songs. I think I got my first guitar off of craigslist. It was a Taylor 110 Acoustic. I still have it back home in Washington, but once you upgrade your guitar, you realize how bad your old one used to sound in comparison.
What is your favorite guitar now?
My favorite guitar is the one I have now which is a Martin GPCRSGT. I really love Martin Guitars. This guitar especially has a nice deep sound and I think that it works well with my voice.
Your home is Seattle, WA. Have you ever been to the EMP/ Museum of Pop Culture?
Yes, this museum is amazing. Besides the weather, I consider Seattle to be one of the most beautiful places in the world. There have been amazing artists who came from this city like Jimi Hendrix, Heart, Nirvana, and so many more. I recommend anyone in the area to take a trip to this museum because it really is an immersive musical experience where you can learn all about these artists.
What was the best thing about the Voice?
The best thing about being on The Voice was all the people I got to meet. I was only 15 when I was on the show and I was competing against people of all ages from all over the US. Although we were essentially competitors, I developed long-lasting friendships with these people and I got to learn a lot by just observing how people act in different situations.
On the Voice, how did you pick your songs?
They give you a list of around 500 songs that I believe they have the right to use on the show. You must choose three from that list. Then the final decision is up to the producers of the show for which song you actually perform.
What are you taking in college?
I am currently studying Marketing at my university. I am graduating in May and I am so stoked but scared at the same time. I am only 20 years old and I’m a little nervous about the future, but who isn’t? Believe me, marketing is not my job of choice, but I know that pursuing my education was very important. However, now that I am about to graduate, and I have to start applying to “real” jobs is pretty depressing. The thought of spending my days sitting at a desk terrifies me. So, with all my might, I am trying to push my music so I can do the thing I love most as a career.
You just release your EP “Innocence” What took you so long?
Well, the only thing holding me back was myself. This is the first time I am releasing something completely independently. So, being my own manager, promoter, and an agent has definitely been a learning curve. I think that as a musician, I want everything to be perfect. I worry and I overthink which is something I am working on. I had all the songs ready and one day I just woke up and had a little pep talk with myself. Essentially, I said “Siahna, what good is it gonna do ya to hold these songs in your back pocket. They are great songs and its time to let go of your fear.” So, I got to work, and I am very happy and proud of myself for doing so.
Are you going to tour this year?
I don’t have any tours planned, but I do have a few shows lined up in LA during the spring and working on playing some festival shows this summer.
How do you see yourself in five years?
My five-year goal is to release a couple of full-length albums and to play a sold-out North American tour. Every day I am working towards this goal and I can’t wait to see it happen!
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