Julia Bhatt – Karma

By starrymag | May 25, 2022

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

Q) Talk about the story behind your new songs “Cotton Candy” and “On My Shoulder.”

 

A) Not too much of a story! “Cotton Candy” is a fun, light song that I thought would start the album off well and “On My Shoulder” is a really interesting song to me and I thought it might be for others! They’re a bit similar in terms of upbeat, campfire vibes, but they’re fun.

 

Q) What was your first reaction when you listened to the finished tracks?

 

A) I listened to the songs from when we first recorded vocals to finishing touches, so it’s usually not too mind blowing when I hear them. But having ten finished tracks at one time felt really good. It felt like I was a real artist!

 

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

 

A) I’m pretty candid in my lyrics, and people seem to like that, but when I write songs it’s usually to vent or express some sort of feeling. I guess that comes through when people listen. [smiles]

 

Q) Your debut LP is coming out July 20th! What are some themes you’ll be exploring on it?

 

A) Definitely a lot of different themes musically, since some of it was made during COVID. I explored some different approaches to songwriting, from normal writing from scratch to trying to write overdone songs to getting a single melody and trying to write a song from that. There’s a lot of stuff to dig into.

 

Q) What are a few of your favorite tracks on the album and what makes them so significant for you?

 

A) “Karma” is my favorite because it’s one of my oldest songs. I’m really excited for it to finally be out. I’m proud of it in a lot of ways.

 

Q) As restrictions start to ease, do you have any plans for touring when the LP comes out?

 

A) Not quite yet, but I’d love to! I have a few local shows I’m excited for, though.

 

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

 

A) So many people!!! I always say Glass Animals because they experiment with so many different styles and I’d like to be a part of that.

 

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

 

A) Toro y Moi! Been listening to “Low Shoulders” on repeat lately. It’s just a really cool symphony of sounds in each song that he makes and they’re all so creative. It’s inspiring to listen to!

 

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

 

A) Especially with COVID, it’s important to reach out to people who aren’t within touching distance. I have a lot of listeners in other countries, but I’m not quite able to go there and play for them. So, the best I can do is post stuff and try to interact with everyone.

 

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

 

A) THANK YOU!!!!!!!!! From the bottom of my heart, thank you. I’m glad you enjoy the stuff I make, even when I question it.