Out Now Magazine Spotlight series featuring rising pop star Alana Rich for an exclusive interview
My name is Alana Rich. I’m a songwriter and recording artist from Portland, OR. I’ve just released my new single ‘Euphoria,’ and I’m so excited for you to hear it!
Tell us about yourself
I was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest. Currently, I call Portland, Oregon my home. Though I live in the states, my familial roots are in the Philippines, Thailand, Laos.
When did you start making music?
I started singing around the same time I started talking, then began writing poetry and journaling in grade school. It wasn’t till I was about 9 years old when I picked up a guitar and started turning my writings into songs. I’ve been making music ever since.
How do you describe your music?
I’d describe my music as genre-fluid Pop, laced with bittersweet nostalgia and dance energy. Growing up, I was exposed to a wide range of genres from 90’s R&B and Pop, to English Rock n’ Roll, to Disco, and the Blues, and so many others. I appreciate all genres which, in turn, is channeled into my writing style.
Favorite moment from your career?
My favorite moment in my career is the collective experience of performing and meeting so many different people from all over the world. I’ve had the opportunity to share the stage with artists I’ve admired for years, gotten to do a bit of traveling, and made lifelong friends along the way.
Who is your biggest musical inspiration?
My biggest musical inspirations are individuals who push the boundaries of what it means to be a musician. One of the main artists that influenced me to start singing at a young age was Selena Quintanilla. I remember listening to her songs as a 2 year old and, even though I had no idea what she was saying at the time, what drew me to her music was that I could feel what she was singing. No translation required. That’s what I strive to do with my music – transcend language & cultural barriers and get people to dance and have a good time.
What other things do you do besides making music?
Making music takes up a lot of my time however, when I’m not doing that, my time is spent practicing holistic health and being a dog mom to my two pups. I also like to read, write, draw, study music PR & astrology, and express myself through my personal style and makeup. I’m really all over the place with my interests [laughs].
What is your favorite track of all time?
It’s so hard to choose just one! I can narrow it down to one of my top albums: Back to Basics by Christina Aguilera. It’s so fun to sing along to and one of the records I put on when I need a pick-me-up.
What is your best-producing tip?
Don’t spend more time thinking about what you want to write than actually writing. The best way to approach writing is to let your thoughts flow freely, then organize or make sense of it later. I find that the most raw, real emotion is captured when you don’t confine yourself to a specific guideline. I swear by it, because somehow a decent song always comes out of it.
Why did you start making music?
I started making music as a way to escape and make sense of what I was experiencing at the time. As I’d mentioned, I began songwriting around the age of 9, which is already an angsty era of life in itself. Since then, it’s become an integral part of my life.
What are your goals for the future?
I’d love to continue creating and immersing myself in art, whether it be in the form of music, visual arts, fashion. I also wouldn’t mind traveling the world while doing what I love.
What advice can you give for young music producers/DJs?
My main piece of advice would be to DO. Try not to overthink things and just go for it. When I look back on my first years as an artist, I remember my fear of being judged prevented me from putting myself and my art out into the world. The truth is that everyone has their own perspectives, so being judged, and on the other hand praised, is an unavoidable part of life. As long as you do it and feel that what you’re creating is true to you, that’s amazing and all that matters – not the opinions of others.
Please write a message to your fans.
Hi, friends! My new single ‘Euphoria’ is available for streaming on all platforms on 7/30! I hope you love it as much as I do. Keep an eye out for the Euphoria live performance video and official music video dropping soon. Also, be sure to connect with me on Instagram @_alanarich_ ! Thank you so much for your constant support! All my love to you. xo
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