Interviews
ACORN – Anti-Social
By: Jamie Steinberg
Q) How would you describe your sound?
A) I would describe my sound as very fresh. I think it’s a lot more upbeat and lively from my previous sound. But I am still entering a completely different genre, so it’s always going to be refreshing for me to work with something new.
Q) Who are some of your musical influences?
A) I grew up listening to classic rock, Pat Benatar, Janis Joplin, Joan Jett, etc. But I grew up in the 90s, so my favorites at the time were Shania Twain, Madonna, Celine Dion and No Doubt. I know that is an odd mix of musical styles, but I believe that’s what made me so versatile when it came to creating my own artistry.
Q) What made you decide to switch from using your name to an alter ego ACORN?
A) I used my real name, Alexandria Corn, for my country music. So, when I wanted to experiment a different sound, I tried my best to market it more clearly. It can be a mess to re-brand yourself, so I was very careful when doing so. My nickname growing up has always been ACORN, so I thought this could be a perfect time to finally bring that nickname to life and give it more meaning. Plus, it is kind of catchy. [winks]
Q) Talk about the story behind your new song “Anti-Social.”
A) I had an interesting night out a few days before we wrote this song. I came into the studio telling my co-writers (Khiana Meyer and Jackson Nance) all about it and how sometimes I just wish I didn’t go out on nights that I don’t feel like it. But we always feel the pressure from friends, and I always end up thinking, “Just go, maybe you will have a good time.” It’s funny because when I lived in Los Angeles, I loved to go out at night and have drinks and dance. Since then, though, I feel like my social anxiety level has dropped immensely. [laughs] Long story short, I went out, waited in a line to get into a bar around 9:30 p.m. and everyone around me was drunk off of $14 Jack and Cokes. I had a group of girls who I have never met tell me to “cheer up” because I looked miserable. Well, they were right. I just wanted to go home and watch a movie with my dog. A few days later, I was thankful for that night because “Anti-Social” was written.
Q) What do you think it is about the song that fans connect to?
A) Growing up nowadays, with social media and all, I’m finding that a lot of us are having issues dealing with our own mental health. I think social media has a lot to do with it. We see only the most perfect lives of those, and we know that our lives will never be that perfect or we will never have that much money or fame. It really affects us. I think we always have to seem like we are “on,” especially in this music industry. Personally, it takes a major toll on my mental health. I believe we all fear of being judges, of being embarrassed and not feeling like we are enough. It has taken me a while for me to believe my worth and for me to believe that it is okay to not be okay. I hope my fans can receive that message through this song.
Q) What is your song writing process? Do you need music before you can create lyrics?
A) It’s different with every song. Everyone’s brain works differently. For me, I like to have my working title or idea all written out, and then get a melody going. From there, comes the lyrics!
Q) Khiana Noel Meyer lent a hand with production, but how much of hand do you have in the production of your music?
A) Khiana is the production queen. I sit down with her during ninety percent of the production, but she takes it into her hands after I tell her or show her examples off what I am feeling. I enjoy being there through it all because sometimes there is something that I love, vice versa. So, it’s nice to be able to change what doesn’t resonate with me.
Q) How do you shake off a long day in the studio?
A) I love coming home, relaxing with some Pino Grigio and getting into my pjs. I have learned to not over think the studio session I just had. It always turns out just the way I wanted it! So, it’s best to relax especially after working on my vocal chords.
Q) Will there be a full album or EP coming in the near future?
A) An EP will definitely be coming out! Right now, I am still making my waves through the pop scene, so I am releasing singles to capture attention first.
Q) Who would you most like to collaborate with on a song in the future?
A) Miley Cyrus. This answer is always changing for me, but right now she is such a female force to be reckoned with in this industry. She really takes charge and knows who she is as an artist and I am so inspired by that!
Q) What album/band are you currently listening to and why do you dig them?
A) Honestly, I am going back to my Paramore and Avril Lavigne days! Lately, I have been on such an alternative pop kick, and reliving these songs again is so completely different to me than years ago. I think we need to bring this type of music back!
Q) You are a part of social media. Why is that such an important way for you to connect with your fans?
A) I am. I try really hard to stay relevant with what is going on in the world and the industry. Most days, it is very overwhelming, but it is the only way for me right now (especially during COVID) to connect and stay up to date with my followers.
Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?
A) I really want to say thank you. Thank you to the ones who have been a fan from my Country days, thank you to the ones who go out and buy tickets and support live music because without you guys, we wouldn’t be able to do what we do. I hope to see you all on the road very soon. Until then, stay safe and healthy!
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