Lola Kristine – chapter 3: into the woods

By starrymag | February 26, 2024

By: Jennifer Vintzileos

 

 

Q) How would you best describe your sound?

A) Soulful singer-songwriter with hints of blues, country, gospel, R&B and jazz

 

Q) Who are your Top 3 musical influences?

A) Brandi Carlile, Joni Mitchell, Elton John

 

Q) Tell us a little more about your latest project chapter 3: into the woods.

A) This is the third segment of my album, CHAPTERS, which tells a story of my self-realization through romantic relationships. This particular chapter is like a reclamation.  After getting my heart broken over and over, I was left to finally face myself. No more blaming other people for my suffering.  This chapter begins with me returning home to the wild and wise woman within, facing inner demons and freeing myself from old stories.  The next song, “Living for Myself,” is about fiercely embodying that newly found independence.

 

Q) chapter 3: into the woodsis your first release with World Peach Records, an all-female indie label. How did you come to work with World Peach Records on this particular chapter?

A) My co-producer on this album, Justin Busch, met Jayne Trimble, the head of World Peach Records, at a music sync conference. He knew that the two of us would get along so he connected us. Jayne and I hit it off right away and she was definitely the manager I had been looking for. She’s been working for me as my manager for the past few months and we decided to release this next chapter on her label to get some extra support.

 

Q) Your current release, along with chapter 2: when things fall apartand chapter 1: rose colored glasses, is part of a five chapter project culminating in the release of your upcoming album CHAPTERS. What inspired you to release your music for the upcoming album in this format?

A) Each chapter on this album is like a different stage in my personal “hero’s journey” of transformation through romantic relationships. I’ve gone on this journey multiple times and each time I learn more. It felt important to me to share how I have found freedom after years of toxic relationship cycles, codependency and love addiction. I feel like many people can relate to the story of love and loss. If my listeners find themselves in a particular chapter right now, I want them to know they are not alone. I want them to know that even in the darkest times, the sun will rise again. Love can be a healing and refining force.

 

Q) Since the previous releases of chapter 2: when things fall apartand chapter 1: rose colored glasses, what has been the overall reaction to the new music from fans and listeners?

A) I’ve been reaching a lot of new fans with the music which has been awesome. My fans have been enjoying the new songs and stories.

 

Q) “Living For Myself” made me feel so emotional and empowered while listening. Where did you draw the inspiration from for this particular chapter of your project and was any part of it from personal experience?

A) I’m happy to hear the song made you feel empowered! YES! It definitely came from my personal experience. I wrote “Living For Myself” after a meeting I had with a man who was a pretty established manager in the music industry. He was trying to tell me I needed to pick one style and stick with it – to put myself in a box so I’d be more marketable.  At the time, I listened patiently to his advice, although I felt an anger building within me.  When I got home from the meeting, this song just poured out of me immediately once I sat at the piano. The song showed me how I really felt deep down. It was a big moment for me to finally start standing up for myself and what was true for me instead of always giving my power away to people I perceived as “higher up” than me.

 

Q) You also had “Just Friends” from chapter 2: when things fall apartfeatured in an episode of “Children Ruin Everything.” What was it like getting to hear your music used in such a popular television show?

A) I actually haven’t heard it yet! The episode should be airing in the US in a few weeks. I’m very excited to see and hear it though.

 

Q) Without giving too much away, what can fans look forward to with the final two chapters?

A) The journey is moving upward from here with a nice combination of epic anthems and stripped-down tracks.

 

Q) With the release of new music, you have also been performing locally. Are there any plans to tour nationally and promote the upcoming album?

A) Yes, definitely! My team and I are currently planning tour dates for this year… stay tuned!

 

Q) Which song is your favorite to perform for a live audience?

A) Hmm great question. It’s always changing depending on my mood. Haha!

 

Q) If you had the chance to collaborate with anyone on a new project, who would you like to work with and why?

A) Brandi Carlile…Her lyrics deeply resonate with me, and I absolutely love her voice and style. I really respect the way she lives her life. She is a huge inspiration to me. I think we could create some magic together.

 

Q) What would you like to say to your fans and supporters of your music?

A) I would like to thank them for all of their support: coming to my shows, cheering me on, listening to my music and sharing me with their friends. I couldn’t do this without my fans!