THE DAILY SHUFFLE APRIL 2020
PAULINA CHÁVEZ
contents 05. JP Saxe 07. Hallea Jones 09. Gabi Sklar 11. Paulina Chรกvez 21. Craig Stickland 23. Caroline Romano 25. Adriyan Rae 27. Brooke Alexx 29. Nikki Hahn
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
CREATIVE DESIGNER
@xonessa
@karlas.jpg
Vanessa Salles
Karla Silva
Follow us at
@thedailyshuffle
April Playlist BREAK MY HEART dua lipa I LOVE YOU’S hailee steinfeld BREAK UP SONG little mix TAKE YOURSELF HOME troye sivan BACK TO ME lindsay lohan OVER YET hayley williams CANCELLED kiana lede
letter from the editor Hey readers, During these trying times, we hope you’re all staying safe and sane. We appreciate every single one of you for your ongoing support and our hope is that you can count on us as a source of joy and positivity! During this time, feel free to let us know what kind of content you’d like to see from us; we’re committed to using our platform and voice in a way that brings us all closer. Though it’s easy to feel discouraged during isolation, keep in mind that you are not alone - we’re all in this together and things won’t be this way forever. Until then, we’re here to keep you distracted with some interviews with all your faves! This month, our cover star is the incredible Paulina Chávez. As the star of Netflix’s hit series, The Expanding Universe of Ashley Garcia, the Mexican-American actress shines both on and off screen. We talked to her about the Latinx comedy, what representation means to her, and so much more. Be sure to check out her cover story to read all about it! In this issue, you’ll also find a roundup of some must-hear album releases for the month! Let us know which ones you’re loving! As always, be sure to follow us on all our socials to stay updated on all our releases; we’d be so happy to hear from you all! XOXO
Vanessa Salles Editor-in-Chief
JP SAXE
With a sound and style that’s uniquely his own, JP Saxe deserves all the top spots on your favorite playlists. We talked to the singer-songwriter about his newly released EP, bucket list goals and more. words by VANESSA SALLES photo by MATT BARNES
Tell us about your new EP, ‘Hold it Together’! Any memorable moments from the writing/recording process that you can share with us? Finishing the recording at Canterbury Studios in Toronto, which was the first studio I ever worked at as a 16 year old. Most of the EP was done in LA, but it was special being with Ryan Marrone back home in Toronto to finish it up, surrounded by family. Is there a track that holds the most significance to you? All of them are special to me in their own way, but ‘If the World Was Ending’ has tied itself into a few different really beautiful parts of my life. Is there a track you’re most excited to perform live? I LOVE performing all of them live. It’s my favorite part of my job! What’s the creative process usually like for you? It’s different every time, honestly. I just try to get the songs to feel as close as
possible to the real life emotions that they’re coming from. With the EP exploring the different themes of love, what would you say has been the biggest love lesson you’ve learned? Love is about showing up for someone honestly, not perfectly. When it comes to stage presence, which artist(s) are you inspired by? Paul McCartney, Adele, Julia Michaels, Glass Animals What’s on your bucket list for 2020? To touch my toes and go to Brazil. With a growing following, what’s the best way for fans to get your attention online? Cover one of my songs and tag me! Any special message for fans? Thank you for sharing this all with me. It would be far far far less fun without you.
THE DAILY SHUFFLE
6
hallea jones
Starring in Netflix’s hit series, Locke and Key, Hallea Jones shines as Eden. We talked to the rising actress about her time on set and what’s to come! words by VANESSA SALLES photo by KIEM LAM
Tell us about Locke and Key! What initially drew you to the show and made you want to be involved? My agent sent me out for the role and I looked into the comic books, which instantly caught my interest. I had a friend who was very excited to talk to me about the series, and even more excited when I booked it!
Episode 5, cafeteria scene. No doubt. Or the shadow monsters in episode 10!
How would you describe your role as Eden? What did you love most about bringing her to life? Eden is the high school Queen Bee. She doesn’t have much of a filter, and uses her words to try to create power and dominance over other students. I focus my personal life on being kind and treating others the way I’d hope to be treated, so if I’m being honest - I loved being a little feisty for the moments when the camera was on!
What do you think this means for Eden’s friendship with Jackie? There may be a rocky road ahead... (no icecream puns intended!)
Are there any memorable behind-thescenes moments from filming that you can share with us? Helping Sherri Saum do a self tape one day (I didn’t get any scenes with her but WOWZA she’s a powerhouse!) How would you describe the vibe on set? SO FRIENDLY! With all the craziness that happened in season 1, is there a scene that’s stood out to you/become your favorite?
At the end of the season, we see that Eden is now a part of the dark side; what do you think the future holds for her and Dodge/Gabe in the next season? Ouuu I don’t know! My guess is as good as yours but I’m sure it’ll be worth the wait!
When you’re not busy on a set, what are you usually up to? Making music. Outside of acting, I am also a singer-songwriter and currently working on my debut album! When you think of your ultimate dream role, what comes to mind? Charlize Theron in Monster. Or Laura Dern in Big Little Lies or Marriage Story! What do you want to see more of? Kindness. Any special message to your fans/ viewers? Stay in isolation until further notice young people can get COVID-19 too! And remember to be kind in these unpredictable times (and all the time).
THE DAILY SHUFFLE
8
gabi sklar 9
Connecting to others through her music and lyrics, Gabi Sklar makes quite the impact on her listeners. We talked to the singer-songwriter about her latest release and more! words by VANESSA SALLES photo by RILEY DWYER
Tell us about your single, “I’m Sorry You’re Boring” - what’s the story behind the track? “I’m Sorry You’re Boring” is the first single leading up to my EP, “A Hot Mess.” I was in a studio session in LA with co-writer, JP Saxe. We began discussing crazy dating stories and I had mentioned my friend going on and on about some guy from Tinder. From what I recalled, as she kept talking, I was unable to focus and bored out of mind. We started writing to a track and at some point, JP had asked me, “What do you say to someone who’s boring?” I responded with “uh, I’m sorry you’re boring?” and just like that, we had our hook. What inspired the concept for the music video? I love that the song is very blunt and conversational—it’s something I try to focus on when I’m writing. When I was thinking of concepts for the video, I wanted something that visually paralleled the relatability of the lyrics. I started asking friends about their craziest, most memorable dating stories and, similar to how JP and I began writing the song, I began writing a video treatment. I think we all know someone who’s the “narcissist” or the “hot mess” and having people respond to and connect with that means I’ve successfully done my job as a creative. How would you describe your creative process? My creative process always varies. I’m always looking for new ways to be inspired but the best way is to research, experience, live and dedicate yourself to your craft. Sometimes, it’s
something someone says that sparks a title or concept idea. Other times, it’s a few chords, a couple lyrics, a melody or top lining a track. I have thousands of voice memos, a bunch of notebooks with songs and scribbles, and pages and pages of notes on my phone. You can really find art and inspiration in anything, it just depends on the lens. Which artist(s) do you have on repeat currently? I’ve been playing a lot of Nirvana lately… Doja Cat, Dua Lipa, Lennon Stella, Kiana Ledé. I’ve also been going back to some alt./rock classics. I love feel-good music that I can just dance to or play in the car as I’m starting my day. With a growing social following, what’s the best way for fans to get your attention? I like to be as communicative with my fans as possible. I try to answer dms, comments, etc. If a fan reposts my music, I will always reach out to them and show them love back—it’s the least I can do. What’s on your bucket list for 2020? Release the EP and start playing more shows! I would love to meet the people behind the phone screens. I think after the EP is out and the songs have time to circulate, I’ll definitely be performing more. Any special message for fans? Thank you for the endless love, patience and support! There is so much new music coming in 2020 and I can’t wait for you guys to hear it. Thank you for being a part of my musical journey and for making me feel understood.
THE DAILY SHUFFLE 10
11
paulina chรกvez words by VANESSA SALLES photos by RUSSELL BAER
Delivering some of the show’s funniest oneliners, Paulina Chávez shines as the titular lead role of ‘Ashley Garcia’ in Netflix’s hit series, The Expanding Universe of Ashley Garcia. With the first eight episodes now streaming, the Latinx comedy delivers both heartfelt and hilarious scenes that are perfect for the entire family. We talked to the rising starlet about her time on set, what’s to come, and so much more. Tell us about The Expanding Universe of Ashley Garcia! What is it about the show that initially drew you to it? I immediately connected to my character, Ashley Garcia, when I read the fact that she did not have a social life due to her focusing on college at a very early age. She also has an overprotective mother, which, of course, the majority of Latin homes have moms who love us deeply and want to take care of us. I also related to her because I was homeschooled by mid-year of 8th grade so that I could pursue my acting career.
13
How important was it to you to find a role that’s connected to your Latin roots and allows for representation? I believe it’s very important to have a variety of Latino roles represented in TV/ Films for the Latino audience to visualize themselves in all the possibilities out there. I thought this was unique and I pictured myself in that role. We need more Latinos represented in positive roles. What has the feedback been from viewers on how they connect to you and your onscreen family? I have received a lot of positive comments. It is great to hear that viewers connect to Ashley in many ways like her being a genius! I’ve heard from young teens who began college at a young age and are just now starting to have a social life. It’s been incredible to see how many people relate to her; that’s what it’s all about for me. How would you describe Ashley and all that’s been going on in her mind this season? Ashely is very intelligent and she is trying to figure out friendships, relationships and typical teenage stuff. Ashley experiences new feelings she’s never felt before like getting her first crush and wondering if that person feels the same way. She always wants her friends to be happy and meet new ones along the way.
Having already crossed some things off her bucket list, what new goals will she be setting her sights on? I don’t think I can say anything without spoiling, haha! But I will say that she’ll keep being a social butterfly and working hard at JPL. At the end of part 1, we see Ashley and Tad share a special moment at the dance – are you rooting for the two of them or do you think Tad had ulterior motives? Oh my, that is a tough one...I think that Ashley should live in the moment and enjoy it to the max. Life is too short and she will continue to grow and learn how to handle whatever life throws at her. We’ll have to wait and see how everything plays out. How would you describe Ashley and Brooke’s friendship and how important it is to have those sorts of encouraging friendships at that age? I have no idea what Ashley would do without Brooke’s friendship. It’s so important to have someone you can just talk to when you need to. Those sorts of friendships should be held on to forever. Are there any memorable behind-thescenes moments from filming that you can share with us? There are many memorable moments, but I think the ones that stick out the most is me
THE DAILY SHUFFLE 16
THE DAILY SHUFFLE 18
fake burping in Jencarlos’s ear and he was so sure it was real. He couldn’t believe it. We’re always laughing on that set! How would you describe the vibe on set? The entire cast and crew connected instantly. We all had a common goal and we all enjoyed it to the max. We became a great big family and continue to stay in touch. I miss them so much. What would you say has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned while filming this series? One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned from shooting the series is that life offers these amazing opportunities, we need to enjoy the moments, the people, and know that we are making long life friends and extending our family. Without giving too much away, what would you say viewers can be expecting from part 2? I’m going to say that Ashley, Tad, Bella, Stick and Tio Victor will continue to learn and experience things that will help them grow personally and as friends/ family. I can’t wait for everyone to see it. When you’re not busy on set, what are you usually up to? When we were shooting the show, I kept pretty busy working, so I would stay in and rest most of the time. On the days off, I would go to the beach, the
19
movies, get together with a friend when our schedules would align. I like to relax and enjoy the moments that present themselves. I am more spontaneous when I’m not working. With a growing following on social media, what’s the best way for fans to get your attention on social media? I really enjoy the fans and their comments about how they either relate to me or to Ashley. I try to go in and read most of the comments. I think if they comment on my post, they will for sure get a like and maybe a response within a couple of days! When you think of your ultimate dream role, what comes to mind? I believe there are so many possibilities, but I am drawn to portraying real life stories. Right now, I want to continue learning and enjoy life’s moments so that, in the future, those experiences can help me grow in other bigger ways. Any special message for fans/viewers? My message to fans/viewers is to follow your dreams and your passions. Work hard and dedicate yourself to your goals. I believe that if you prepare, focus and work hard you can accomplish anything you want, and it will lead you to bigger and better things. Something I’ve done is surround myself with positive people who will inspire me to reach those bigger dreams that I’m still figuring out.
craig stickland
We asked the singer-songwriter about his debut album, inspirations and more. words by VANESSA SALLES photo by JENNA GREEN
What can you tell us about the writing/ recording process for your debut album, ‘Starlit Afternoon’? I spent my entire label advance on buying and renovating a touring sprinter van, which I ended up living in outside of the studio while we recorded for about a year. The songs were mostly written before heading into the studio but finding the right sonic direction is what took the longest. We’d often experiment with multiple versions until landing on the one that felt right for everyone. Is there a track on the album that holds the most significance to you? They are all special to me in different ways, but the title track “Starlit Afternoon” is the one that I’m most proud of. It’s the song that starts the arch of the storyline for the album, and it was one of the ones I’d been playing live the longest. I couldn’t wait to get it recorded and released. What has the reaction been like from fans so far? The reaction has been incredible so far. I’d been testing out a lot of these songs on the road before jumping into the studio, so there’s been an overwhelming reaction from fans who have been patiently waiting for years. It was my first time ever co-producing an album with some close friends, and I’m glad I didn’t disappoint in the transformation from live to recording. Which song(s) are you most excited to perform live? I’ve been playing these songs live for a bit now, and the ones that always feel the best to play are “I Can’t Get Enough of You”, “Starlit Afternoon”
and “Golden Child”. They were mostly tested out before the album was released, so now that the album is out, I’m excited to see which feel the best after everyone knows them. When it comes to stage presence, which artist(s) are you inspired by? I’m a no gimmicks kind of guy when it comes to stage presence. I really respect artists who have honed their craft, are incredible at their instruments and who let the music speak for itself. John Mayer, Thom Yorke, Julian Casablancas and Chris Martin are a few that come to mind. When you’re not working on music, what are you usually up to? Building my sprinter van sparked a passion for creating and designing things in physical form, and when I was waiting for my album Starlit Afternoon to be released, I started a studio furniture company designing and making stylish, minimalistic studio furniture for musicians. It’s called Callus and Co. and we’re just about to officially launch. What’s on your bucket list for 2020? I’m very grateful for the life that I’ve been blessed with, and I’ve checked most things off my bucket list, so I’d love to continue what I’m doing - creating and sharing my art with the world. Any special message for fans? Thank you very much for listening. To my existing fans, I know you’ve been waiting for a while for this album, thank you for your patience and I promise there’s a lot more where this came from. To those of you just joining me - welcome to my journey.
THE DAILY SHUFFLE 22
caroline romano
Allow us to introduce you to your new fave: Caroline Romano. We talked to the rising songstress about what’s to come, her creative process and more! words by VANESSA SALLES photo by SOONI YOUNG
Tell us about your upcoming single, “I Still Remember” – what should fans be expecting from it? “I Still Remember” is a song I’ve been waiting to release for a while now, because I knew I wanted it to be my most special release to date. I think the track is a perfect representation of my sound, and I feel like it’s a song that holds a level of universal relatability. “I Still Remember” is about not being able to let someone go, because you can’t forget who they used to be to you. It’s the type of song I want to blare in my car on a summer night with the windows rolled down. Fans can expect “I Still Remember” to have the biggest music video, the most content, and even some surprises coming out with it! I’m so proud of this project, and I can’t wait for everyone to hear this song that’s so close to my heart. What’s the creative process usually like for you? The creative process is different for every song. Sometimes I get an idea late at night in my bedroom, and I may write the entire song within thirty minutes to my guitar. I love when producers will send me tracks to write lyrics for, because it gives me a general vibe and direction, but I can have creative freedom lyrically. On the other hand, there are times when I go into the studio with another writer or producer, and we come up with a concept or a track together. Again, it happens differently every time, and I’ve loved each experience uniquely. How would you describe your personal sound? I would describe my personal sound as introspective pop. I draw a lot of my sound inspiration from artists such as Lorde, Kesha, Taylor Swift, and Conan Grey. I love to have
really upbeat tracks with moody lyrics, and I’m excited to see how my sound evolves throughout my career. Tell us about your recent EP! Is there a track off the project that holds the most significance to you? I’ve loved releasing singles at this point in my career because it allows me to show a completely different side of me with each one. With singles, I get to create new themes, cover art, and videos for each song. I’ve gotten to pour all of my energy and creative efforts into every song, and I think that’s what’s made them so special to me. However, I’m looking forward to releasing a collection of songs in the future! When it comes to stage presence, which artist(s) are you inspired by? I think Taylor Swift is the queen of stage presence. She was my very first concert, and I’ve looked up to her performances since I was little. I recently saw YUNGBLUD in concert, and he blew me away as well. His energy is unmatched, and it’s something I always try to bring to the stage. What’s on your bucket list for 2020? At the beginning of 2020, I made a lot of plans for this to be my biggest year of releasing music to date, and I’m still hyper-focused on making these plans a reality. However, in light of the recent events going on in the world, I’m hoping to make 2020 a year of being thankful. I want to spend time with my family and friends, serve others, and live more in the present. I still have so many plans for this year career-wise, and I’m excited to the rest of 2020. For now, I’m praying for the world during this difficult time and trying to spread positivity through it all! THE DAILY SHUFFLE 24
adriyan rae hair by KALIN SPOONER makeup by SHANNON PEZZETTA styling by MONICA CARGILE
Starring in SYFY’s hit series Vagrant Queen, Adriyan Rae shines as the dynamic Elida. We talked to the actress about what’s to come, behindthe-scenes moments and more! words by VANESSA SALLES photo by DIANA RAGLAND
Tell us about Vagrant Queen – what is it about the show that drew you to it? Vagrant Queen is about a child queen who survives a monarchy revolt by the Republic government. After escaping, she’s constantly being hunted by the Republic, mainly by Lazaro, as they try to extinguish her royal bloodline. She gets by surviving and while doing so, her old friend Isaac tells her that her mother is still alive. They link up with a bad-ass mechanic named Amae, and the three of them start this epic journey of finding Elida’s mom. I was drawn to the character of Elida instantly! It was how she’s written, how fleshed out and dynamic she is as a character; and though I’ve never personally been part of a monarchy or been to space… Elida is still just so relatable. Her feelings, thoughts, demeanor, and journey just all resonated with me and allowed for me to connect with her quite easily. What can you tell us about your role? Well, I play the role of the Vagrant Queen, Elida Al-Feyr. If birthdays are a thing in this galaxy, hers would be November 11th. She’s a leader, super loyal, a little bit of a rebel, and very much a free thinker. Her journey throughout Season 1 is one that most people will have that “I get it; I’ve been there” feeling about at least once! And…. she’s my favorite role thus far in my career. Any memorable behind-the-scenes moments from filming that you can share with us? LOTS! Let’s see…. the time Tim [Rozon] sliced his finger open in the middle of a scene cutting hotdogs like a madman. (He was fine, don’t worry.) That one-time Alex [McGregor] tried to do a backwards tuck roll out of the way and kicked the camera spotter. The time my stunt coordinator joined me in Macarena-ing
between set ups. The time Jem [Garrard] accidentally tasered herself while explaining how to safely use a taser, or the time she didn’t know I was afraid of bugs and had me working with this huge “Survivor” cockroach! So many funny times and laughs! The whole cast, crew, and production. I have never laughed so much at work in my life! When you think of your ultimate dream role, what comes to mind? When I think of my ultimate dream role, it’s a role that incorporates comedy with drama and action. Something that’s dynamic and believed in. Elida is a great example of a role that incorporates all of these. I literally prayed for a role like this one, and I’m so grateful for it! When you’re not busy on a set, what are you usually up to? I’m usually working out, traveling, writing, or spending time with my family. I love nature, being in it, experiencing it etc. so hiking, trips to Yosemite and such are all things I love to do. What’s on your bucket list for 2020? I want to explore more of California at the moment since international travel is limited. Sequoia National Park and Big Bear are on the to-do list, along with (hopefully!) getting the green light and filming Season 2 of Vagrant Queen, spending Christmas amongst snow, and doing some really cool Comic Cons so I can meet the amazing fans of Vagrant Queen! Any special message for fans? To the fans, I just want to remind you all of a few things. Your reality is what you make it and allow in your realm. You’re amazing, unique, powerful, and appreciated. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the support. Love and Light to you. Peace to the world. THE DAILY SHUFFLE 26
brooke alexx
27
If Brooke Alexx isn’t already on your radar, you’re doing it wrong. The singer-songwriter opened up about her creative process, latest single and more! words by VANESSA SALLES photo by LUKE ROGERS
Tell us about your single, “Downplay,” that was released earlier this year - what’s the story behind the track? “Downplay” was the final song I wrote during my writing trip to LA last summer! I had recently gone through a breakup and my co-writer brought in the title, which sparked the concept of seeing my ex out in public and pretending to be unbothered. As soon as we finished the song, I said, “this is going to be my next single.”
videos, I truly have full control over my brand and artistry, which gives more space for creativity. I’m a sucker for consistency, so it was really important to me, for example, that the single artworks matched the style of the house we shot the music videos in. Everything is connected. When coming up with the music video concepts, I listened to the songs on repeat in the car and let my mind wander down paths and storylines until I found one that I loved.
Your most recent single, “Drunk,” has a fun upbeat vibe and music video, any memorable moments while writing/ shooting the video that you can share with us? I shot 3 music videos in one day, concluding with “Drunk” at night. It was a blast because it was an upscale party setting, so all my friends came dressed up and ready for a fun time. My favorite scene was the red room with my friend Andy mouthing the line, “I think I’m in love.” Everyone was a little tipsy by the time we got to it, including Andy, and he was struggling to get the line on the beat. It was hilarious and all our friends were cheering him on while watching the monitor from the room next door. You can see some of these outtakes at the end of the music video as bloopers.
With this new wave of song releases, how would you describe the evolution in your sound since the EP? I think my sound, especially with the music coming after “Drunk,” is becoming more refined and mature. I’m really honing in on what I want to say and how I want to say it.
How would you describe your creative process? From writing the songs to editing the music
Which artist(s) do you have on repeat currently? Lennon Stella, Astrid S, Lauv, UPSAHL. With a growing social following, what’s the best way for fans to get your attention? Commenting on my posts and responding to my stories - my favorite thing is when people share how my music has impacted them! Any special message for fans? I can’t thank you enough for following my journey thus far and I hope 2020 is the year I show you what I’m truly made of!
THE DAILY SHUFFLE 28
nikki hahn
If Nikki Hahn isn’t already on your radar, it’s time to change that. We talked to the actress/singer to get the inside scoop on all her latest projects! words by VANESSA SALLES photo by ALEX KRUK
Tell us about your single, “In My Head” what’s the story behind the track? ‘In My Head’ was the first song that I had ever written. It’s based off of personal experience so it really started as a journal entry in my diary and slowly built from there. Any memorable moments while writing/ recording that you can share with us? I had a ton of fun making this song, especially since I was experiencing the process for the first time. My favorite moment was recording my vocals. Once I started recording, I never wanted to stop! How would you describe your creative process? I pretty much journal. That’s how I get all of my ideas out. Sometimes I’ll write lyrics first and then put a melody to it, but most of the time I’ll just journal and something will come from that. With your EP coming out this summer, how would you describe the vibe/sound on it? All I can say is that I’m super excited with what I’m working on. It’s definitely going to have party vibes! When it comes to stage presence, which artist(s) are you inspired by?
Lady Gaga is queen. I love how versatile she is in her performances with singing, dancing, and playing piano as well. With a growing social following, what’s the best way for fans to get your attention? I’m still very active on social media. I read all my comments, I love seeing the reactions and feedback. I am always here for you. With all the acting projects you have under your belt, is there a role that’s stood out the most to you? Probably Adventures in Babysitting. We had a huge cast of kids so it really WAS a 2-month adventure in Vancouver. What’s on your bucket list for 2020? Well, I wanted to travel this summer after my graduation. However, things have changed. So I’ll have to come up with a new bucket list. It is so important to stay home right now and be there for each other any way that we can. Any special message for fans? Hang in there and stay safe, new music is on the way. Once I can travel again, I’d like to travel around the world and do meet and greets. I’d love to meet you guys. Thank you for all the support!
THE DAILY SHUFFLE 30
APRIL 2020
Kiana Lede - KIKI 4/3
Maddie & Tae - The Way it Feels 4/10
The Strokes - The New Abnormal 4/10
albums we can’t wait to listen to in april!
Lennon Stella - Three. Two. One. 4/24
31
Alaina Castillo - the voicenotes 4/24
The 1975 - Notes on a Conditional Form 4/24
TDS IS ALSO AVAILABLE IN PRINT!
THE DAILY SHUFFLE MARCH 2020
AISHA DEE
www.thedailyshuffle.com/digital-magazine THE DAILY SHUFFLE 32
www.thedailyshuffle.com