Tarra Layne – A Ukrainian Love Story

By: Jennifer Vintzileos

Q) Why did you decide to share you and your husband Andrii’s story through singing a cover of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow?”

A) When Andrii and I first met, he asked me to send him one of my songs. I sent him my cover of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” and it’s his favorite of mine to this day. When all of this happened, I felt it was finally time to release it and the perfect backdrop for the story.

Q) “Somewhere Over The Rainbow” is one of your husband’s favorite songs. When you decided to sing and record it, what did sharing a piece of your personal life with fans mean to you?

A) At first, I really wanted to keep our relationship away from my social media, etc., but it’s such a big part of my life, let alone inspiration for my music, that it became impossible to “hide.” It’s a bit of a relief as I see our relationship as art in a way.

Q) What has been the response from fans and listeners since you released your cover of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow?”

A) Listeners seem to enjoy it. I love singing classic tunes. This is by far not only a personal favorite, but perfectly written in my eyes.

Q) Has Andrii had a chance to watch the video and if so, what was his response?

A) He said, “It made my eyes wet.” [smiles]

Q) Ken Rose, who is twenty-year veteran of The Recording Academy and publisher of the official GRAMMY Awards® program book, helped produce and direct “A Ukrainian Love Story.” What was it like getting to work with him and how did his input guide you in putting together the music video?

A) Ken has been a longtime friend. Since I first moved to LA, he’s been a sort-of mentor to everything “Hollywood.” He’s incredibly creative and empathetic. We relate on a very kindred level, which is really important to me when collaborating. We see eye-to-eye, which makes it very easy – and fun – to work together.

Q) You also had poet and recording artist J. Ivy add a special message to “A Ukrainian Love Story.” How did his contribution come to fruition?

A) Ken’s affiliation with the GRAMMY Awards has allowed him to meet and become friends with incredibly talented and inspiring individuals. J’s touch is amazing. I feel honored.

Q) I won’t lie, watching “A Ukrainian Love Story” had me in tears by the end because the story between you and Andrii is beautiful! Were there any snippets of video that you wish you could have included in the final product and are there any sweet moments that weren’t put in the video that you would love to share with our readers?

A) Oh my, well, there is so much more to our story. I am very excited to continue releasing snippets and telling our story. If I released everything, it’d be a movie saga (which isn’t a bad idea *wink*).

Q) Aside from the video, there is also a website for your mission at UkrainianLoveStory.com. How has taking to social media and the internet helped you in not only sharing your story, but coping with the stress of trying to bring Andrii home?

A) It’s helped immensely. Being worried about Andrii and our family in Ukraine is an understatement. The project is keeping my mind busy, focused on the goal of getting Andrii home, while also being creative.

Q) What message do you hope fans take away from watching “A Ukrainian Love Story” and listening to your version of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow?”

A) I hope it sheds more light on the awful situation in Ukraine. I hope people feel inspired to tell their own story. I hope it inspires strength when the darkness seems to be too suffocating and a feeling of extreme gratefulness for the things that we continually take for granted.

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

A) I do it because I love it. I do it because it makes my soul happy and allows me to thrive in this confusing thing called life. If anything, my art is just an extension of my want to help people – to not feel so alone, to follow their own calling and to fight for love and happiness.