By: Lisa Steinberg
Q) How would you describe your sound?
A) My sound is emotional, cinematic and deeply personal. It blends raw, vulnerable lyrics with polished pop production. At its core, it’s music for healing and empowerment. I often describe it as a conversation between pain and power.
Q) Who are some of your musical influences?
A) I’ve always admired artists who tell the truth, even when it’s uncomfortable. Macy Gray, of course, has been a huge influence both musically and personally. I am a 90s baby at heart and my love for music really sparked from many of the greats in the late 90s such as but certainly not limited to Alanis Morissette, Aaliyah and No Doubt. I also really admire the music of Adele, Alicia Keys and PINK. They all share that emotional honesty and soulfulness that I gravitate toward.
Q) Macy Gray is your mentor. What advice has she given you either about songwriting or the music industry that you’ve taken to heart?
A) One of the most valuable pieces of advice Macy gave me is to just TRY. She always says, “Throw it out there and see what lands.” She has really inspired me to take risks in the studio and to be open to experimenting. Whether it’s a lyric that might not make sense to everyone or a vocal run that’s not perfect, there’s power in taking risks. She’s also taught me to never imitate, to find what’s true for me and let that lead everything.
When recording she’s been such a great teacher in guiding me on how to mentally let loose and simply tell my story with full emotion from the heart. That may require turning the studio lights down low, closing my eyes, and taking my mind to a certain scenario or memory before I record. That type of mindset has not only helped me with my recording performance, but also with my stage performance; telling my story while being completely vulnerable and genuine, that’s what being an artist is about.
Q) Talk about the story behind your new song “Ignite Me.”
A) “Ignite Me” was written during a really painful period of my life. I have received a lot of criticism by both people I know, and that I don’t, for pursuing a music career. However, I always look at the judgement and underestimation as a fuel to my fire and I really channeled that energy into this song. “Ignite Me” became a declaration, not just of strength, but of transformation and power. It’s about taking pain and using it to fuel your motivation, your dedication and your strength.
Q) What makes this a great follow up to your single “Manifest It?”
A) “Manifest It” is about stepping into your highest self, believing in your vision. “Ignite Me” is what happens when the world tries to shake that belief. It’s the fire that rises when doubt and criticism threaten your confidence. Together, the songs form a powerful one-two punch of manifestation and resilience.
Q) What do you think it is about the song that fans connect to?
A) I think people connect to the rawness. We’ve all had moments where we felt dismissed or broken. “Ignite Me” doesn’t shy away from that. But it also doesn’t stay there. It offers a way forward. It’s angry, yes, but it’s also empowering. When we perform this live the energy is palpable.
Q) How does the video for the track play into the message behind it?
A) We are working on video concepts now! Excited to see how it unfolds. You can expect visual messages of resilience and empowerment trampling over any negativity that tries to invade your spirit.
Q) What is your songwriting process? Do you need music before you can create lyrics?
A) I keep a running document of lyrics, ideas and storylines that come to me randomly, sometimes while I’m walking or while I’m driving, other times in the middle of the night. When I hear a beat or piece of music that Praveen, my husband, creates that moves me emotionally, I sift through those ideas and find the one that fits best. Sometimes I write in silence, just journaling until a melody appears.
Q) Mikal Blue, Epic Mazur and Praveen V. Arla worked on production for “Ignite Me,” but how much of a hand do you have in the production of your music?
A) A pretty big one. While I’m not a technical producer, I’m very hands-on with picking the sounds that I like the best. I sit in on sessions, offer direction and give feedback every step of the way. Praveen, my husband and main collaborator, knows my sound inside and out, so we often build things together from scratch before bringing in other producers like Mikal and Epic to elevate the track.
Q) With “Ignite Me” out now, will there be a full album or EP coming in the near future?
A) Yes! We started releasing Album 2 singles in 2025. It’s a more daring and emotionally charged body of work. “Ignite Me” is just the beginning of that new era, full album out early 2026.
Q) You’re out on tour with Macy Gray now. What are some of your favorite songs to perform live?
A) “Ignite Me” is definitely a favorite. It’s cathartic and electric on stage and the closing song as well. You can really feel the energy of the crowd as they “let go.” It’s quite liberating for all of us in the room. But I also love performing “Lights Down Low” because it is very intimate and emotional. This is a really special song because Praveen and I created it together for each other, so performing it on stage together is a whole other level of magic and rawness that is hard to describe, but it is palpable.
And “Manifest It” is always an energy pleaser because it is upbeat and inspiring. We always have a ton of fun on stage performing this one!
Q) Where are some of your favorite places to perform and what makes those locations so significant to you?
A) Performing across Europe with Macy has been unreal. We played iconic venues like the Folies Bergere in Paris and the Philharmonic Theater in Hamburg among others. The Cavatina Hall in Poland stands out because the audience was so gracious and really tuned in. You could feel the energy bouncing back! Cavatina Hall was towards the end of the tour and we started selling out of merchandise, which is always a great sign! I also loved Paris; there’s just something magical about connecting through music in a city known for its art and beauty.
Q) Who would you most like to collaborate with on a song in the future?
A) I would love to collaborate with Macy Gray first and foremost. I think giving back the love, time and attention on a mutual track the way she has always given to me and my tracks is due in the future. This would be such a unique moment between a mentor and a student. Showing how much I have learned and grown on a collaboration track would be the ultimate dream.
Q) What artist/musician are you currently listening to and why do you dig them?
A) Lately I’ve really been digging Benson Boone and Hozier. I think their sound is so unique, emotional and authentic. I love listening to them on long drives and belting along, it’s quite therapeutic.
Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?
A) I would like to say thank you, although there’s no fine array of words that could really convey how appreciative I am. Your messages, your energy, your presence – it’s what motivates me to keep going. Making music is the most vulnerable thing I’ve ever done and to know that people see themselves in it…that’s the real gift. I’m just getting started, and I’m so grateful you’re on this journey with me.