Valerie Warntz – Revelation

By starrymag | May 10, 2019

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

Q) How would you describe your sound?

 

A) You know, it’s hard even for me to describe my music in one genre. I think it’s close to alternative or acoustic, but I love to experiment with sound. That’s why Revelation is comprised of totally different songs. They are connected by the story told in lyrics, though, but musically there is a huge variety.

 

Q) Who are some of your musical influences?

 

A) Lana Del Rey has been my inspiration since 2013. She actually influenced me to start recording covers and, eventually, to write original songs; however, I’m not trying to copy her. Or anyone. I am telling my own story in the way I want it to be told. Also, Taylor Swift is another my favorite. Her talent and determination in reaching her goals are just amazing.

 

Q) Talk about the story behind your new song “Garden of Thoughts.”

 

A) This is not an ordinary song for me. I rarely write just piano ballads, but this time I decided to use this instrument and also added birds’ singing. I find this song a little bit sad but at the same time it brings spring mood for me. This is basically a song about diving deep into the garden of thoughts, blooming in your head.

 

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

 

A) I think the chorus is something many people can relate to. At least I hope so. We all have or had someone we miss so much, so we just hope to find them in the crowd someday.

 

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

 

A) In this video I tried to express melancholic mood. At the same time, I didn’t want it to be gloomy: I wanted to show springtime, blooming flowers, but with a little touch of vintage. So, I found this beautiful garden with swings and pavilion. I am absolutely happy with this video, hope my fans are too.

 

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

 

A) It varies. Usually, I just get the melody or random lyrics appearing in my head, so I do some raw demos on my phone. I have thousands of these short recordings, really. You never know when inspiration will come to you: it can even be in the middle of the night. So, I usually work on lyrics first, and then start producing an instrumental. But I have a couple of songs started from the music as well.

 

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

 

A) At the moment, all of my existing songs are written and produced by me only. I just love controlling this process and adding instruments/words which I want to add, without any pressure. However, I want to work with producer on my next album to bring new, fresh sound.

 

Q) What can fans expect from a live Valerie Warntz performance?

 

A) Live vocal: I don’t lip sync. [laughs] But seriously, I’m thinking about tour with the new album, but will keep it in a secret for now.

 

Q) What songs off your Revelation album are you looking forward to performing live?

 

A) “I Don’t Love You Anymore,” “Crazy Dreams,” “Beach,” “Ca$h,” “Garden of Thoughts” and “Come Closer.” These ones are confirmed.

 

Q) What do you hope listeners take away from listening to your new album as a whole?

 

A) I hope this will teach them, that having some problems or making mistakes is okay. Or maybe, if they feel lonely, they might feel better by knowing that someone also passed through this.

 

Q) Where are some of your favorite places to perform and what makes those locations so significant to you? 

 

A) I don’t have any certain countries or cities, but I can mention that I really love open-air festivals. The energy there is so amazing.

 

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

 

A) Lana Del Rey, Shawn Mendes. Dream collaborations.

 

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

 

A) At the moment, I’m listening to Ariana Grande’s thank u, next album a lot. Some songs there make me feel so happy, I truly enjoy them.

 

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 an amazing way to connect with people who is literally miles away from you. It’s amazing to know people on the other side of the planet who want to know about me and my music.

 

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

 

A) I often thank my fans on my social media and can say it a thousand more times. I thank every single person who support me. For a girl, who started writing songs just in her room, it is such a great honor to have people who really care about those songs. Your support truly gives me confidence and I can’t wait for the magic which is yet to come. I love you.