It’s almost the end of 2020! We are a couple of weeks away from the beginning of 2021: a year that we hope will far better than this one. But before 2020 ends, let’s talk about a few more releases that happened this year. One release is a Canadian singer-songwriter named Valdii with his latest single “The Mirror”. I recently had the chance to interview him via email to ask about his experiences in the band Eleven Past One, his artistry, and about “The Mirror”. Make sure to read the interview and listen to the song below!
First of all, please introduce yourself!
Hello! My name’s Valdii, how are you?
What are your musical influences? What genres and artists inspire you?
I have many musical influences. They range from extremely successful artists such as Michael Jackson, Justin Timberlake, Christina Aguilera, Bazzi, Halsey, Shawn Mendes, my brother Joey who plays the violin, he is a great musical influence because he inspires me to keep perfecting my craft since he practices daily but I also get inspired by everyday people that I see doing what they love.
How is it like being a solo singer compared to being in a band? Any challenges or positives?
I think more so in the beginning there were some challenges. For example, putting a show together. I needed to seek out other talented musicians and people who work in production to help me put together a live show. It used to be my band mates that kind of took care of all that for me. Also, it was a bit nerve racking at first to play solo shows with new musicians that I wasn’t really used to playing with. But nonetheless, it’s all mostly positive because I’m able to be a free creative bird and just really put down pen to paper the way I want to.
What things did you learn while being in Eleven Past One that you have applied in your solo career?
I’ve learned plenty along the way. While being in Eleven Past One for all these years, I’ve really been able to hone in on the way I perform, the way I write, the way I carry myself in the spotlight. Another huge part of the learning process was really seeing all the behind the scenes of the music business that goes on. For the longest time I had to put on all the hats for the band; the artist, the performer, the manager, the agent and the publicist/marketing person. It was straining but I really did learn a lot.
Let’s talk about your newest single “The Mirror”. What are the lyrics about?
This song is completely raw, vulnerable and honest. It speaks on my insecurities and dark times that I’ve been through in my life. I’ve definitely hated some things about myself but also loved them all at the same time. It may not make a lot of sense to say you love and hate something all at the same time, but that’s truly how I felt. I would look in the mirror and see this person, so I decided to write about it. I think a lot of people can relate.
How was writing the song? What was the process like?
Well, I wrote this song with my main writing partner and producer Brian Howes. I wrote it in Los Angeles where his studio and the home were based. I basically just went into the writing session with notes on this topic and how I wanted to write about looking in the mirror. We start the process by shooting out ideas, lyrically and musically and before you know it, you have a song!
How was working with Brian Howes (Simple Plan, Serena Ryder, Nickelback)?
Nothing short of amazing. I call him The Musical Wizard. He’s one of the most talented people I’ve ever worked with. Brian truly brings out the best in me, as in writing and recording vocals.
What do you want listeners to listen to when listening to “The Mirror”?
Overall, everything. Listen to the melodies, the production we used and most of all, listen to the lyrics. If they can touch you in any way, big or small, it makes it all worth it.
What are your plans for the future?
I’m hoping for my music to be able to fall on the ears of millions of listeners. I’m excited to have another platform, now as Valdii, to reach people with my music. To touch people’s lives in a positive way. To show God’s love. That’s truly the goal.
Lastly, any final messages for the readers of ai love music?
First of all, thank you for having me, for talking with me. To everyone who is reading, thank you for your support. And if you haven’t heard of me or my music, I encourage you to go give it a listen, share it and keep up with me on my socials. All my social media handles are @valdiiofficial God bless! And remember, we’re all in this together.
About the Artist: Valdii
Valdii is well known for his previous work as the lead singer in the band Eleven Past One. The band found success in 2013 with their breakout gold-selling single “The World Is Ours,” reaching over 1 million views on YouTube and being the Top 15 Radio hit in Canada. As part of Eleven Past One, Valdii has shared the stage with amazing artists including Down with Webster, Cody Simpson, Tyler Shaw, and Danny Fernandes. After sharing success with Eleven Past One, Valdii is making his solo debut and continuing to work with top producers, writers, and artists to showcase his talent
Make sure to check out Valdii at the following sites:
Official Site | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify
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