Check out our interview with Austin, Texas singer-songwriter Syd who recently released her hit singles “Medicine” & “Angel” and is about to release her new single “Insane” as part of her new partnership with Grammy award-winning producer Keith Thomas (Chris Brown, Usher, Amy Grant, Mariah Carey).
Syd vulnerably channels the emotional ups-and-downs of her life and finds powerful songwriting fuel as she tells the stories of the experiences that have shaped her.
Follow Syd @sydneypalmieri
Hi Syd, please tell us a little about you?
I am a 20 (about to be 21) singer/songwriter from Austin, Texas. I moved to Nashville 1 year ago to follow my passion for music and I am loving every minute. I come from a strong and supportive native Texan family and I have one older sister named Ryan. In my free time I enjoy almost anything artistic and creative, I draw and write poetry among other things. I love fashion and all types of music. I am actually a pretty private person and enjoy my downtime when I am not working. I have always been known to walk a different path than many of my friends growing up.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Passionate, creative, humorous
How did you get started in the business?
Although I can’t really remember a time that I wasn’t writing music and singing, my first exposure to the business side of things was at 13. We have some family friends that happen to be singers/songwriters in Austin and were performing regularly at a local venue in Texas. It just kind of naturally progressed to me performing on stage with them and it has grown from there.
How has this changed your life?
Being involved in the music industry has shown me my true purpose in life.
Describe your sound in 3 words?
Moody, emotionally evocative.
Who influenced you and why did you choose to make music?
Along with some local artists early on, I love Lana Del Rey, Billie Eilish and Hozier. I didn’t choose to make music, music chose me.
Do you play any instrument?
I play guitar and piano
Do you ever get nervous?
I definitely get butterflies before performing but I have learned to channel those nerves into positive energy in my performance. I think as the opportunities get bigger, I will definitely feel those nerves. Any nervous feelings I have had are rooted in my desire to just do well on stage.
Tell us about your new single “Insane?”
I would call it “pop-alternative” with a really relatable message. I would consider it very different than my previous releases, kind upbeat and provocative.
What’s the story behind the song?
It’s no secret that most of my songs are loosely based on real life experiences. Sometimes mine, sometimes the experiences of those close to me. This song was written in the perspective of somebody that I dated who I could tell was not over their ex. It’s about the tension that can be caused by someone trying to move on from a previous relationship and trying to replace those feelings with someone new and not quite being able to.
And about the success of your hit singles “Medicine” & “Angel?” Big congrats! 🙂
My music is so personal to me so it means everything to me when I receive positive feedback, so thank you.
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
Music is therapy to me. Even if no one was listening, I would still be writing and singing. The most rewarding part to me is if others connect to the song and I can help them through any challenges they may be facing.
What book should every entrepreneur read?
“How to Hire a Good Entertainment Attorney” LOL
As a popular artist you are followed by so many people. How do you feel about that pressure of doing always the right thing, and encourage people to follow their dreams?
Having any size voice in this industry comes with responsibility. I just hope to be a positive influence and show my support to anyone with their own ambitions. It takes bravery to walk a different path than most of your peers.
What do you think is the secret to have a successful site/social media channels?
Constant content and connection with your audience. But I don’t ever want to allow social media to control me so I am active when I feel up to it. Otherwise, I feel it is okay to take a little mental health break here and there.
I bet you get millions of it, but what are the best and worst Instagram DM pickup lines you received so far?
I honestly kind of breeze over those comments and don’t pay much attention to them, I am more impressed with real connection or maybe a private sincere message.
What would say are the greatest lessons you learned so far?
Follow your instincts and trust the people that have earned your trust. Those who sincerely love me will always tell me the truth even if it is not what I want to hear.
What advice would you give to your younger self and why?
That words only have power if I allow them to have power. Ignore the haters.
How would your best friend describe you?
“Spontaneous, wild, well-grounded and always down for a good time. Big snack girl”…Ireland
If you are a book, what would be the title of the book and why?
Sydney…TO BE CONTINUED…because my story is just beginning.
What’s next for Syd in 2022?
Putting the final touches on 4 new songs and can’t wait to get the schedule for release. Writing everyday. Just moved to a spacious condo with my best friend Ireland, and turning 21!
What is your favorite healthy food?
Pineapple and hot tea
And your favorite cheat food?
Chick-fil-a
How would you explain your fashion style?
Ever changing!
What is your own definition of happiness?
Feeling like I am making strides to fulfill my potential in life everyday.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
Marilyn Monroe, she’s a pioneer.
What would be the dream holiday, and who would you go with?
A beautiful beach where I could scuba dive every day while still having night-life close by. I’d take my best friends.
Best advice ever given?
Fake it until you make it.
Do you support any charity?
My family as a whole has been a big supporter of The SAFE Alliance for as long as I can remember.
Where do you see yourself and your career in 5 years from now?
I see myself touring and hopefully feeling fulfilled in my contributions to the music industry. I have a number of artists that I would love to collaborate with so hoping to be a position to do that.
Favorite song? Why?
Anything by Lana Del Rey because her talent is a major inspiration to me.
What do you think of Social Media?
It’s a necessary evil, don’t believe everything you see.
Where we can follow you?
All socials are @sydneypalmieri
Instagram / TikTok / Facebook / Twitter
Favorite Book: I love anything about a murder mystery
Favorite Quote: Fake it until you make it.
Favorite Movie: The Notebook
Favorite Tv Series: Walking Dead
Favorite Food: Prosciutto
Favorite Travel Destination: Belize
Favorite Sports Team: Texas Longhorns
