Vanilla Sugar

Performing Artist

Who are your inspirations? (as in other artists)

I love Grimes’ style a lot. I find inspiration from her, as well as Mindless Self Indulgence. I love the synth forward music and uniqueness of it all.

How did you get started?

I started by writing tracks on an iMac using GarageBand! I wanted to create music that I would like to listen to; a mix of all my favorite genres!

Who are your favorite bands/singers?

I grew up listening to Metal and got into Electronic music as I got older. I love KoRn, Mudvayne, Grimes, and Mindless Self Indulgence.

What do you think about when your preforming?

I totally zone out when I perform. It’s so crazy! I always have nervous butterflies before a show, but as soon as the show starts, it’s like I blank out and someone else takes over. Two sides of me! I don’t really think about anything while performing. It’s a pretty insane and freeing feeling, since I’m usually over thinking the rest of the time!

What was your first song ever sung?

I wish I could remember! I have been performing since I was a four year old. The furthest back that I can remember would be “It’s A Hard Knock Life” from Annie. I was in dance at the time. I think I must’ve been 8 years old or so. It was fun. A lot of choreography. I’m glad I did it then, because it definitely prepared me for now.

When did you first start singing?

I started taking piano lessons when I was four. The teacher I had at the time would have me sing along while playing to improve note memory. I would say that it definitely works.

What did your family do to encourage you?

My family has always been supportive of me from day one. My parents helped me get enrolled with piano lessons, and my guitar lessons later in life. My family always come to my shows any time I play in my hometown of Houston, TX. It’s amazing to have that kind of support and people who have always believed in you.

Have you always enjoyed the art of music?

I have loved music since I can remember. My dad is a drummer and would play gigs every weekend. I remember going to see him perform. I feel like the gigging musician lifestyle has always been a part of my life. It was great growing up around that. My brother is also a musician. I guess it runs in the family!

Any loves, other then music?

I love taking photos. I’m a concert photographer! I enjoy every minute of it. It’s so fun to be able to capture the energy in the moment during a show.

Who are your musical inspirations?

When it comes to writing music, I’ve been inspired by a few different artists. The gritty style of KoRn’s guitars have always been a favorite of mine. It’s definitely different and has a special edge to it. I like to incorporate a bit of Metal into each track. I also love and find inspiration in the synthy-vibes of Crystal Castles and Grimes.

What was the best advice ever given to you?

The best advice I ever received was to never turn your back on the audience when you are performing. It’s great to keep it front facing and involved.

If you could have any style wat would it be?

I love the styles I have now! Musically, I would say my style is HorrorPop, and fashion style would be Pastel Goth.

What kind of music do you listen to today?

I listen to a lot of the same music as I did growing up, but currently I am jamming Vanilla Sugar (write what you love to listen to!), Nine Inch Nails, Mudvayne, Purity Ring, Ashley O, and Mr.Kitty.

What embarrassing songs might I find on your playlist?

Fly On the Wall by Miley Cyrus. That is the jam though! For some reason I have never deleted any of the old music off of my MP3. It’s nice to take a trip back in time that way.

Where would you most like to perform?

I would love to perform at Download Festival in the UK. I’ve had my heart set on that since I was a kid.

Who would you most like to open for?

I would love to be able to open for Grimes. I think our music vibes very well together and we would have a lot of fun.

If you weren’t singing, what would you be doing?

I took classes in college to be a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant). I worked as one for a little bit in a hospital and a nursing home, but I prefer singing!

Do you play any instruments?

I do! I play synths, piano, guitar, bass, french horn, and trumpet!

If you could dabble in another genre of music, what would it be?

I have dabbled a bit in Trip Hop. It is a lot of fun and different from what I am used to. I created crazy beats and rapped over them.

What genre of music can’t you stand to listen to?

I actually love all types of music; I haven’t found a genre that really drives me crazy yet!

What hidden talents do you have?

I can twitch my nose like a bunny, and draw cartoons.

Do you enjoy writing music and/or lyrics?

I love doing both. Writing lyrics is a way for me to get things off of my chest. It feels like a weight is being lifted. I can get totally lost while writing music, which I love. There is just something so magical about shutting the world out and letting your heart and vibes drive the music.

What is your favorite quote to say to other?

“Don’t be afraid to ask, the worst they can say is ‘no’.”

Do you have a website or social media for our readers?

Yes! Let’s be friends! vanillasugarmusic.com facebook.com/vanillasugarmusic instagram.com/vanillasugarmusic Twitter: @IAmVanillaSugar youtube.com/vanillasugarmusic twitch.tv/vanillasugarmusic

Photos by John Poulos