Your new song "Petty" is such a dynamic, upbeat, dance song! What's the story behind it?
Alyssa: I had heard a lot of songs, especially on TikTok, about seeking revenge on your exes after a breakup. But what about if you don’t want to give the time or energy to them? Petty is ironically about not being petty towards an ex.
What made you decide to pursue music professionally?
Alyssa: I have always been a massive fangirl. I struggled a lot during high school and turned to music to cope. Sometimes I would be at concerts multiple times a week, and would even go to some alone. When I was watching my favourite artists up on stage, I kept picturing myself in their position and imagining what it would be like to have a room full of people singing your songs back to you. Since then, I made the decision to study music performance and songwriting at university and haven’t looked back.
Who are your biggest influences?
Alyssa: I have so many! I love Kehlani, H.E.R, Ella Mai, Kiana Ledé and Ariana Grande but then I also take a lot of inspiration from Bastille lyrically.
What challenges have you faced breaking into the music industry?
Alyssa: My biggest challenge has been learning to be my own fan. I was bullied all throughout high school, especially when people found out I wanted to be a singer. It got to a point where I couldn’t perform without having an anxiety attack. Eventually, I realized that the only person stopping me is myself and I won’t get anywhere if I don’t have faith in myself.
What would you do if you weren't a musician?
Alyssa: That’s a really tough one! I went through so many dream jobs over the years from becoming a pediatrician to a makeup artist. It honestly wasn’t until I realized I could have a career in music that I knew that I had found my dream job.
What's in store for you in the near future? Any new projects in the works or upcoming gigs?
Alyssa: I am working on plenty of new music. Not sure exactly when I will be releasing again as I want to make sure everything is as perfect as possible but just know there is new music in the works.
Interviewed By Hannah Conkin
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