Scarlett Taylor – Black and Blue

By starrymag | March 17, 2021

By: Maggie Stankiewicz

 

 

 

 

Q) How would you describe yourself as an artist?

 

A) My artistry is definitely an extension of myself as an individual – as Scarlett. I’m a moody, sensitive and empathetic being. I feel that comes off pretty clearly in my music as well. I’ve always thought of my music as my favorite emotional outlet; somewhere I can express my raw thoughts and feelings.

 

Q) What are some of your musical influences?

 

A) I have so many. Vocally, I would say old jazz and soul – but I also take inspiration from modern vocalists as well. Production-wise, as of late, me and my producer take inspiration from synth-pop with a 70’s and 80’s feel.

 

Q) Your new single “Black and Blue” is your first release in three years. How does it feel to be back in the studio?

 

A) Honestly, amazing. Recording is definitely one of my favorite processes as an artist. It’s like carrying around all these emotions and when you release those both writing and recording in the studio, it’s like you can breathe again.

 

Q) The song just dropped earlier this month. How did you celebrate its release?

 

A) Promoting! I spent almost two days straight on my laptop and phone. Naturally, I treated myself to some pizza in-between. I take my business pretty seriously and didn’t properly “celebrate,” although I probably do owe it to myself.

 

Q) Please tell us the story behind your new song, “Black and Blue.”

 

A) “Black and Blue” tells the story of falling in love with a criminal – it can be interpreted as literally or figuratively. Literally, as somebody that is putting both themselves and you in danger from criminal activity and figuratively as someone that “steals” your heart and makes you feel as though you have to be on guard of your emotions and heart at all times. It’s both dangerous and exciting at the same time. You’re living for the rush through this lover and you’re walking the line to be with them. But you would do anything for them; including bailing them out when “I’m just down for the thrill of it all…your business doesn’t suit me I don’t wanna get involved.” It’s a destructive type of love that leaves your heart “black and blue.” It’s ride or die.

 

Q) “Black and Blue” introduces listeners to a brand-new Scarlett Taylor. How would you describe what influenced your transformation?

 

A) Since moving out to LA in 2018, I’ve met so many new people and have had so many new experiences that have really influenced me finding myself as both an individual and artist. My lyrics have definitely always had vulnerable subject matter and, honestly, I can’t write any other way. However, the production and vocal composition are a bit more up-tempo/pop than previous material. My producer and I wanted to explore more of a “pop” sound because my vocals have always worked with that type of production, even though our earlier albums are down-tempo both vocally and production-wise. It was time for a bit of a change while still staying true to the Scarlett Taylor sound, which I feel we very successfully pulled off.

 

Q) “Black and Blue” depicts the danger and excitement of falling in love with a criminal. Please tell us what inspired you to write about this subject matter?

 

A) Film, life, fantasy. I’m big on action, crime and drama.

 

Q) What lyrics do you connect to the most in this song?

 

A) “It all belongs to you…and this is all I knew…we’ve been through and through, my heart beats black and blue.”

 

Q) Your sound in “Black and Blue” incorporates 80s synth beats with modern pop melodies and vocals reminiscent of other indie darlings like BANKS and Fiona Apple. Did you work closely with your producer to blend these elements together?

 

A) We both went into creating with the mind-set that we wanted to keep my vibe, but also try something new. That’s where the 80’s synth-pop and vocals were born. I created both the melody/vocal composition and lyrics, while my producer flawlessly executed a beautiful and groovy soundscape. When I first heard the chords, something sparked within me and I just started writing like crazy. I probably wrote and came up with all the lyrics and melodies in fifteen to twenty minutes, which leads me to believe this sound may be the one for me.

 

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

 

A) My producer and I work closely to make sure we’re both happy with the melodies, production and lyrics. It’s definitely a team effort. I feel we are both very talented in some areas and the areas that we’re lacking, the other can help or make up for. We will usually look through sounds together in the studio and when one sparks for me it usually also sparks for him. It’s really cool I get to work with someone that enjoys the same sounds and chord progressions as me. It absolutely makes the creating process a lot easier as well. He will send me mixes and I will tell him what I like and don’t like until we get a sound that we both agree on and enjoy listening to. Sometimes we have to meet halfway, but the product always ends up amazing.

 

Q) What’s the best part about being back in the studio and creating music for release?

 

A) Singing! Since live performing isn’t a thing with COVID, it’s nice to be able to use my voice for something productive. I just love to create and always have. And again, getting to write and release emotions vocally is always a humbling experience.

 

Q) Following the release of “Black and Blue,” will there be an EP or album coming out soon?

 

A) That information is under wraps, but let’s just say I won’t disappoint.

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who are fans and supporters of your work? 

 

A) First and foremost, thank you, thank you, thank you. Very cliché, but I wouldn’t be able to do this without you guys. I am grateful for everyone who listens and has ever listened to my music. I get so many beautiful messages, artwork and overall support that makes my heart swell. I’m so blessed and grateful that I can make music and live my dream. I really hope I can meet everyone someday soon.