Lethal Souffle Interview | Respect the Artist
Lethal Souffle is a New York-raised artist who channels a profound love for music into a unique sonic experience. With a passion for writing and creating music, Lethal Souffle draws inspiration from various parts of the world, blending diverse genres and styles to craft their own distinctive sound. Their music celebrates the full spectrum of human emotions, shedding light on the intricacies of the human experience. Through their artistry, Lethal Souffle aims to foster connections, bridge cultures, and inspire listeners to embrace the beauty of vulnerability.
How did you get your name?
I got my artist name from one of my favorite books growing up. One of the characters was in a band and had a series of crazy band names. It was either Lethal Souffle or Midnight Burrito.
How did you get into creating?
I got into creating around the time I was in Middle School, I used to write fictional stories until I reached High School. I started to write lyrics on my downtime hoping to be able to perform them one day.
Where are you from?
I'm from various parts of New York since I moved around a lot as a kid, but my heart is in Brooklyn.
How did growing up in your neighborhood/city affect you?
It taught me to have thicker skin and a kind heart. I met tons of people from all walks of life, their stories and hardships really left a mark on me. I learned a lot but most importantly I realized how beautiful it is to listen and empathize. Sometimes all someone needs is someone to listen to them.
What did you do to advance your skills/knowledge?
I joined a group of artists willing to share their knowledge of production. In all honesty, I learned by trying things out on my own and showing it to them. They would critique the work and give me tips on what to do better. After some time it got easier to understand and build off of those skills. Super grateful for all the support from my friends!
What does your current setup look like?
I use an original NEAT King Bee Mic with a UA Apollo Interface. It matches well with my voice and the profile is shiny yet full. I mainly record in my closet, like most bedroom musicians. It's comfy, surrounded by blankets and foliage.
Who inspires you?
This is a tough one. Artists like Stromae, Honne, Tom Misch, DPR Live and FKJ have inspired me. To be more specific when I first heard Stromae I knew right then that I wanted to make music like them. Their songs all have amazing meanings behind them. My favorite one has been the song Santé, it is a song for the people who work all their life who never have a chance to rest. It sheds light on the struggling working class. It's brilliant and touching all at once.
What is your goal when you create?
My goal is to make people feel less alone in how they are feeling. Whether that's good or bad. Even when we are feeling like a villain in someone's story, I want to capture the humanity of these complex feelings and scenarios. I want people to feel like they aren't completely in the dark. We've all collectively felt these complex feelings at some point in our lives.
Why do you create?
I create so that I can share what I'm feeling in hopes of bonding with the listener. It is an outlet for me but also a way for me to share this very human feeling I'm going through at the time.
How has choosing your creative path affected your life?
It has affected me sooo much! I've met amazing artists who have made my life so colorful. Getting the chance to perform together or just share our ideas and having jam sessions. I'm so much happier for it knowing I found my music family.
Did you have to overcome any obstacles along the way?
There was a time when I had considered quitting music. I had abruptly left New York to move to Puerto Rico and had no idea if I could make music anymore. A good friend called me asking to perform with her for a show. Reluctantly I agreed and fell in love all over again. From spontaneous rehearsals in the City to taking band pics. I knew I couldn't give it up, I made a few friends that also inspired me to keep going. If it wasn't for their support and that opportunity I don't think I would be where I am now.
What's your go-to song right now and why is it important to you?
Currently have True Colors. By chromonicci playing on repeat. That song is super introspective. The artist perfectly captures the hyper-awareness of oneself and their individuality. My favorite lyric from that song showcases what we all must think at some point in our lives. "Which one will I be today?
Am I the one who leads or the one who's led astray?" Highly recommend that song.
What is your dream as an artist and what steps are you taking to reach your dream?
My dream is really all about finding the people who can relate to my songs or has impacted them. If someone came to me and told me that my song cheered them up or made them smile then that is more than enough for me. Every day I write one lyric on my phone, if I feel drawn to it then I continue to write from there. But it's all about practicing and learning more and more. I'm currently being adventurous and learning how to DJ and it's been really fun!
What would you tell someone else with a dream?
Don't be hard on yourself. When you first start producing or writing you'll feel compelled to junk all your stuff. We are all our worst critics but it's important to just make what you feel. You'll learn more and more in time but you have to allow yourself to create without diminishing it. Be kind to yourself.
Tell us about your most recent release
I recently released a single called Forever. As cheesy as it sounds it is the first love song I ever made. I wrote it wanting to channel that old-timey love story. As a bisexual female, I wanted to make a song where I fulfill certain gendered roles like walking someone to their door after a date or lending my jacket on a cold evening.
Check it out on Youtube https://youtu.be/LeXlVaiQ4iQ
Instagram: https://instagram.com/lethal_souffle?igshid=MzNlNGNkZWQ4Mg==
Photography credit: hierophant
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