Chelsea Lankes

Chelsea Lankes is an exciting talent from Nashville in America, who sound grab me from first go. I love what she is doing and know she will be doing amazing things. So read on and find out why I think she is amazing.

http://www.chelsealankes.com

1. How did did you get into music?

From a very young age, I was exposed to music and the joy of learning and creating. My mom had me take piano lessons when 7 and then I got a guitar when I was in high school and that’s when I started trying to write songs. I had always had a passion for writing, whether it be poetry, short stories, I just love the thrill of creating something completely original- twisting words, rhymes… and that turned into challenging myself in the songwriting realm. But really from the beginning, I’ve always recognized the essence of what music is, how it makes me feel, how it’s a catalyst to creating a memory or an important element to an experience in life. Music is so subjective and thus, it affects us all differently- but that is the wonderful part about it! Somehow the sum is always greater than the parts, and I’ve always wanted to be a part of that miracle.

2. What was the inspiration for the EP?

The inspiration really came from one track- Seth Jones and I started creating the track for “Close Our Eyes” just for fun and I realized then that it was something fresh… I felt so inspired. The sound was so specific and adventurous and I just wanted to run with and see where it would go. I’ve never had more fun creating a project!

3. Why change the style of music you were playing?

Funny thing is I’ve always done pop, however I’ve just changed the format. My sound is less organic, but in terms of melody and lyrics I don’t think I’ve strayed from my identity. I think that’s all that really matters- you can evolve as an artist and play with your sound, be daring, but if you aren’t being honest then none of it is relevant. I love electronic, dance, pop, indie, singer/songwriter… changing my sound wasn’t completely calculated, but when I started expanding and ridding myself of the box I put myself in as a writer and an artist, the music I started creating made me feel alive and I just continued to walk in that direction. I will continue to walk in that direction.. wherever that takes me.

4. Has your new style of music opened up doors for you?

It definitely has! I think the quality of production lends itself to a really fun live show and as an artist you want to give people an escape and a reprieve from life when you perform for them. So more opportunities to play shows has been so great. I also think the songwriting on this EP has improved and in turn, I think a larger audience can more easily relate to what I’m singing and how I’m singing it. Having a fresh and unique twist on the pop sound I think gives people something to grasp onto, to invest in. I think they hear the potential in the music too- if you can get people to dream with you, then you are set.

5. Who have you enjoyed playing with recently?

I had the opportunity to do a duet with Will Anderson from Parachute! He is a dear friend of mine and an extremely talented artist and writer. Being able to sing with him was an honor. I also got to play with an up and coming band, Coin, their music is just so FUN. I see so much potential for them this year.

6.  What is the scene like where you live?

Nashville has so many subcultures, I feel like I’m lucky to have such a wonderful group of friends that are all so extremely talented and creative. I surround myself with people that are better than me, so that I feel continually challenged and propel myself to improve. But on a lighter note, we all basically live in coffee shops and talk about music and occasionally go to shows.

7.  How does social networking help you as an artist?

I feel like twitter and instagram have been huge in terms of expanding my audience. I love that people can actually get into you as a person and what you believe, what you think, how you perceive the world. I think that only adds to their desire to know your music and your craft. We all have so many facets to our personalities and our lives. Music is a huge part of mine but not all of it, the rest of my life fuels my music. And with social networking… people can see such a large percentage of your life and who you are, therefore, they are more willing to invest in your craft.

8. If you could work with any one who would it be?

In terms of producers- Dr. Luke, Benny Blanco, Max Martin, Madeon, Le Youth. In terms of artists- Katy Perry, Justin Timberlake, Bruno Mars, Ellie Goulding, Oh Land, Frank Ocean, or The Weeknd

9. Do you think your new sound will land you a lot more sync and music placements in film and tv?

I absolutely hope so! Unfortunately that part of the business isn’t in my control. I can only hope for the best.

10. What is next for yourself?

Creating more content, I’m continuing to write songs… I want to put out a couple music videos. I definitely want to tour and release more music!

11. How do you find being an independent artist?

It is a wonderfully rewarding, liberating and terrifying place to be. With so much freedom comes limited resources and an overwhelming sense of “what exactly do I have to offer that so many others don’t?”. Because things have changed, the music scene is so saturated with artists both great and not great. I definitely don’t want to be one that just contributes to the noise. And being independent I have complete creative control which is great- that said, as I develop myself as an artist and continue to grow, I hope I’m not always independent. I would love to be at another level, however my job right now is to put my head down and give people something worth investing in.