Tori Kay – Waste My Time

By starrymag | August 6, 2019

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

Q) How would you describe your sound?

 

A) I would describe my sound as a blend of urban/pop with an inspiring message of empowerment.

 

Q) Who are some of your musical influences?

 

A) My musical influences are Jessie J and Britney Spears. Jessie J because of the soul and depth in her voice. Britney Spears because she successfully took a Disney career and became one of the biggest pop artists that we know today.

 

Q) Talk about the story behind your new song “Waste My Time.” 

 

A) I am very excited for my single “Waste My Time” to come out along with the music video. I just recently went through a breakup and that is what this song is about. It really helped me move on with life and I hope that it does the same for others who are dealing with heartbreak.

 

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

 

A) “Waste My Time” is probably one of the most vulnerable songs I’ve written. I usually write upbeat songs about loving who you are and accomplishing your dreams but this one isn’t about that. I think that everyone can relate to this song because I wrote it while trying to get over a breakup. You know, everyone has dealt with heartbreak at some point in their life so I hope that people can connect to the song but also still dance and have fun as well.

 

Q) How does the video for the track play into the message behind it?

 

A) The “Waste My Time” music video reflects the day to day life after a breakup. You wake up and sometimes it’s hard to get out of bed, but you got those friends you can depend on to distract you from everything going on. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions. I wanted to have moments where it showcases the emotional part of moving on and then flashes to having fun. I think that a breakup is a mixture of both sadness and hope for something greater and I wanted this music video to reflect that.

 

Q) What is your songwriting process? Do you need music before you can create lyrics? 

 

A) My songwriting process is always different. I usually like to start on the piano because that’s where I am most comfortable. I will play around with some chords and my producer and I will discuss an idea for a track to go nicely with the chords. Then, once the producer starts working on the track I will start coming up with melodies and lyrics.

 

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

 

A) I am always a part of the production of my music. I give the producer creative freedom of course but it is definitely a collaboration. When it comes to beats and sounds, I am very particular on what I like but always open to new ideas.

 

Q) What can fans expect from a live Tori Kay performance?

 

A) A live Tori Kay performance involves some sparkly purple outfits and lots of dancing. So, if you come to one of my shows you can expect to be up on your feet dancing the whole time and singing along.

 

Q) Will there be a full EP or album coming in the near future?

 

A) Yes! I am hoping to release my EP in the next couple of months!

 

Q) You are an ambassador for the SOS Organization. Why is this cause so close to your heart? 

 

A) The S.O.S. Foundation is a great cause to support under-served youth who are dealing with peer pressure, mental illness, abuse, and bullying, or contemplating self-harm. I personally have experienced a similar situation. My parents went through a very difficult divorce which caused my father extreme anger and resulted in the harm of our relationship. Part of the S.O.S. tour is the performers sharing their personal stories with the teens in the audience who have dealt with similar circumstances. I will be speaking more on this topic during the tour which starts in February of 2020.

 

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

 

A) I would love to collaborate with Zendaya, Jessie J or Britney Spears just to name a few. These are all artists I’ve looked up to and have learned a lot from.

 

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

 

A) It’s hard to narrow it down to one specific album or band. I love rap music so I listen to a lot of Cardi B, Lizzo, Missy Elliott, Iggy Azalea, etc.

 

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

 

A) Social media is such an incredible source to connect with people all around the world. I call my fans #Torioes, but they have become friends throughout time. Social media allows me to talk to my #Torioes on a daily basis and really connect with each and every one of them.

 

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

 

A) I wanna say thank you to all my #Torioes for all the constant love and support they give me. I have so much music coming out and I will be touring as much as possible to meet all of you! You can stay up to date with shows and new music on all my social media platforms @torikayunedited. Thanks!