Andria Piperni – Who’s Counting?

By starrymag | April 22, 2021

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

Q) How would you describe your sound?

 

A) I like to think of it as a jazz-tinged fusion of R&B and soul. A sound that feels both fresh and familiar. 

 

Q) Who are some of your musical influences?

 

A) Growing up I listened to a lot of Amy Winehouse, Corinne Bailey Rae and Alicia Keys. Soulful female artists across the board. Some artists that I often turn to now for inspiration include Daniel Caesar, Raveena, Bruno Major and Lianne La Havas. 

 

Q) Talk about the story behind your new song “Settle.”

 

A) I see “Settle” not necessarily as a sad song, but as an introspective song. I wanted to write a song that reflects the complexities of a relationship—love is hardly ever black and white. And when you’re deep in it, it can sometimes be hard to recognize if you’re in a situation that’s worth fighting for and one that’s simply just not meant to be. 

 

Q) What do you think it is about the song that fans connect to?

 

A) I think people can relate to feeling uncertain and scared about making the wrong decisions in life. You don’t always know what’s best or right for you and that can make you feel lost. 

 

Q) How does the video for the track play into the message behind it?

 

A) Although the song is about a relationship, as I said it’s really a moment of internal reflection, which is why the video is a compilation of shots of me alone. We wanted to create moments of hope and moments of doubt. There is one scene in particular where I am surrounded by a maze of sheer curtains with the camera weaving in and out of them. The idea was to portray the disconnect between two people; a thin veil that separates clarity from feeling lost. 

 

Q) What is your song writing process? Do you need music before you can create lyrics?

 

A) I usually feel more inspired to write lyrics once I hear the music. I think about what the music makes me feel, what it reminds me of, and I build a story from there. I think melody is so important, and I enjoy the challenge of finding words and phrases that suit the melody rather than the other way around. 

 

Q) How much of a hand do you have in the production of your music?

 

A) Once I’m done writing a song, I like to build a playlist that I can share with whoever I’m working with to get inspired for the production. Most of the time, I have pretty specific ideas of what I want it to sound like and I enjoy being involved throughout the whole process. I’ve been lucky to work with producers who are really receptive to that and know how to make my vision really come to life. 

 

Q) What are some themes you explore on your new EP Who’s Counting?

 

A) Every song sort of touches on the theme of awakening—seeing things (or people) in a new light, having new experiences, gaining a deeper understanding of yourself and what’s important in life. Although I started writing some of the songs before the pandemic hit, it felt really fitting as they all came together last year when I think so many people were having their own moments or period of awakening and change. 

 

Q) What songs off the EP have a special place in your heart and why?

 

A) One of the singles (which I’ve already released), “Above the Clouds,” is really special to me. I wrote from the perspective of speaking directly to myself. It’s a reminder that no matter how hard or scary or uncertain things may seem, it is ultimately my choice whether I let that interfere with my life. As an artist, you constantly have to put yourself out there and if I had let fear or doubt get in the way, I would never have made it to where I am now. It’s a constant choice to push through it and this song reminds that it’s always worth it—there’s always sun above the clouds! 

The other one that has a place in my heart is the title track, “Who’s Counting.” I don’t want to give too much away, but let’s just say it’s really honest and also a bit different from the other songs on the EP. 

 

Q) What tracks challenged you the most to create?

 

A) “Who’s Counting” was one of those songs that I was able to write very quickly, it just flowed out of me. But producing it was another story. It took us a very long time to really figure out what felt right for this song, since as I said, it’s a bit different from the rest of the EP. But I’m so glad we were patient and kept working at it because I think the final product is really special. 

 

Q) With performances currently on hold, what do you miss most about being on stage?

 

A) I miss my bandmates!! We’re almost all in different cities now. We’ve been able to do some virtual shows remotely which has been cool though. And I miss singing and looking into the crowd and seeing people having a good time. 

 

Q) Who would you most like to collaborate with on a song in the future?

 

A) I would love to collab with Mac Ayres. He has such a feel-good style and voice and is a really talented songwriter. 

 

Q) What album/band are you currently listening to and why do you dig them? 

 

A) There are a lot of Hope Tala songs on my playlists right now. I don’t really know anyone who is sounding like her. Her songs are so unique and cool. 

 

Q) You are a part of social media. Why is that such an important way for you to connect with your fans?

 

A) Because there are no gatekeepers! (Well, unless you count the algorithm…) You’re able to be you and have direct conversations with the people who are listening to or discovering your music. Streams and followers are great, but they’re just numbers at the end of the day. Speaking to and engaging with actual people is what makes it all fulfilling.  

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?

 

A) THANK YOU! It means the world. Let me know you’re listening (@andriasmusic), I’d love to say hi. [smiles]

And I’m so excited to share my new music with you, stay tuned! XO