Check out our interview with Alexa Ray who is an award winning and classical charting singer-songwriter, known for her bold, smoky voice and dark cinematic Pop.
Contrary to her dark Pop sound, the message behind her lyrics is uplifting and motivational. Whether it be on songs such as “Father Can You Hear Me,” a cry for help and demanding answers from a higher power about the world’s injustices and hypocrisies, or “On My Own” about the courage to pursue a journey to self growth, Alexa Ray’s music is strong, authentic and relatable, which is especially needed now in a world where emotions are heightened and everything feels so disconnected.
Follow Alexa @alexaraymusic
Hi Alexa, please tell us a little about you?
I’m a singer from Toronto, Canada and really excited to be releasing my album “Fearless” with Randall Jermaine who is a film composer from South Africa
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Passionate. Loud. And a little quirky
We’re sure you have been asked this million times but how did you get in the industry?
I’ve been singing ever since I could remember. I started classical voice lessons at the age of 10 and then went on to study voice at University. I only started writing and exploring the pop genre about three years ago.
Describe your sound in 3 words?
Epic. Emotional. Motivation.
Who influenced you and why did you choose to make music?
Some days I feel like music picked me. Ever since I was young it was my escape from the world. Now that I’ve begun writing, it’s my voice and I really hope that what I have to say encourages and is relatable.
Do you play any instrument?
I always say no only because I’m not very good, but I did play flute in high school band and have a few grades of piano.
Do you ever get nervous?
All the time. But it’s an energetic/ excited nervous and I take it as a good sign that I care and want to do well.
Tell us about your new album Fearless?
The album is a collaboration with Randall Jermaine. We had worked on another album together and vibed so well we decided we wanted to work on a full album together. The album blends the worlds of pop with cinematic electronic productions. It’s a little dark, but emotional with huge powerhouse vocals.
What’s the story behind this album and the songs?
I know a lot of people hear the word ‘Fearless’ and thing of some big heroic act, which it certainly can be, but the concept of this album was being fearless in everyday – fearless to begin again, fearless to be unapologetically you or standing up for something you believe in.
Did you have plans/concerts planned and cancelled because of COVID? If so, have you done any online concerts or interaction with your fans?
I had a few really big live performance opportunities that fell through due to COVID but I’m hoping that they are just postponed and not completely cancelled. Everything happens for a reason so I try not to dwell on things that don’t fruition.
I’ve done a few online concerts and currently have one planned as an album release concert September 26 at 7pm EST on my youtube channel (youtube.com/alexarayofficial) I currently have two special guest artists joining me, Singer Chris Ning and Violinist Brigit O’Regan which I’m really excited about! The show is completely free so if you’re not doing anything then check it out!
Which project is still on your bucket list?
In a lot of ways the album I’m releasing ticks off a lot of my bucket list as a project. I always wanted to release a full length album of my solo work so I’m really exited about this release.
What is fun and rewarding about what you do? And what’s not?
I really enjoy getting emails about listeners who have been moved or uplifted by what I do. At the end of the day that’s why I’m doing what I’m doing, to uplift and motivate others so it certainly feels great to hear how something I’ve sung or written has impacted someone I’ve never met. I think sometimes it’s hard when you aren’t working at a fast pace to get discouraged. Sometimes what you are working on now may not start to see any reaction for a few months so patience is certainly something I’ve had to work on.
What’s next for Alexa Ray in the last months of 2020?
Randall and I are already in the process of planning another album together, so lots of writing and I have a few collaborations that will be releasing before the end of the year which I can’t wait to share with the world.
What is your favorite song? And why?
Oh man, how can I pick one? There are so many different artists and songs that mean a lot to me for different reasons so I don’t think I have just one song.
Any loves other than music?
I really enjoy horseback riding. I haven’t in years, but if I had all the time in the world I’d love to get back into it.
Best advice ever given?
‘A ship is safe in a harbor but that’s not what ships are meant for’
What’s a typical day in your life like?
I usually have my days pretty jam packed, whether it’s writing, recording or running errands. But one thing for sure is it ALWAYS starts with a pot of coffee.
Name one of your strengths?
Determination. I don’t like giving up.
Idea of a perfect Sunday?
Sleeping in. Pot of Coffee. Hanging out with my bestie
What is your favorite song to belt out in the car/for karaoke?
Currently I’ve been singing along to Fouzia. She is insanely talented both as a vocalist and writer so currently she’s my car Karaoke jam.
What is your own definition of happiness?
I think happiness is when life is good, so by that definition being surrounded by people you love and finding fulfillment in what you do.
What is your favorite food?
All food. But if I had to pick one I’m obsessed with Hacka Chinese food. It’s a blend of Chinese food but with Indian spices and I can never get enough.
What would be a deal breaker on a first date?
I always notice how they treat others- if they treat a server badly or don’t hold the door open for another girl walking in the door…then it’s not real. I think the person needs to just be genuine.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Hopefully on a stage in a COVID free world.
How would you describe your fashion style?
Oh man, I’m being honest I really flounder between styles depending on occasion and how I’m feeling that day. I really love fashion so one day I might be vibing a street grunge and then the next a full Diva business casual. Whatever I wear I always like to make a statement though.
What do you think of Social Media?
As an artist I obviously can’t live without it but I actually find it tiresome some days. I enjoy it because I can connect with fans and it’s a platform I can promote and share my music on, but some days it can be tiring.
Where can we follow you?
I’m most active on Instagram but I’m also on Facebook and Twitter
@alexaraymusic
Facebook.com/alexaraymusic
Quote: How few are as brave as their dreams
Movie: Devil Wears Prada
Travel Destination: Bali
Sports Team: I don’t really keep up with any sports, but as I’m from Toronto I’ll say the Raptors cause they’ve been representing well
Photo Credit: Bobby Sing
