Introducing Pop Singer-Songwriter from Toronto, Alyssa Messina.
Can you tell us how you've transformed from the beginning to now as an artist?
When I think about how I've become the artist that I am today, a lot of self discipline and drive has gotten into the music and image that is seen today. I definitely didn't become "Alyssa Messina" overnight, that's for sure. I've had a lot of ups but with that I've had a lot of downs, and if you are an artist you're definitely nodding your head with me. It's a mental game, and only those who really want the dream will always prosper and survive through all the garbage that lays before them. No matter what, the dream of becoming an artist has always been embedded in my blood and it's truly something that I will and cannot let go of. I remember singing for as long as I can remember. From and performing in school shows/musicals to professionally run university productions, I was always inspired by the idea of performance and being able to sing on stage. I had a falling out with an artist that I was close with, but even that didn't keep me down. I am currently gathering all the pieces of "Alyssa Messina" and let me tell you, this next chapter of my music career will be the best I've ever written and sung and I'm really excited about it!
How did you come up with your latest project?
My latest EP release "Born Again" was about finding yourself again after coming out from a dark place. Sometimes we are lifted up by the energies around us to help us move forward. Therefore, most of the songs in that EP are about how one can lift you up and make you feel again. It definitely was an inspiring one and it helped to push me forward in my career. My song "Born Again" in that release is one that really resonated with a lot of people.
Where are you from originally?
I am originally from Toronto, Canada! Born and raised :)
Where do you live now?
I'm still living in the city! I've travelled to many places such as New York City for other performing opportunities but I always seem to come full circle. Toronto is a great place for music and building yourself up as a musical artist.
Do you think where you live impacts how your music is made? What was the inspiration to make music your career?
Absolutely! I mean, you will always have your roots embedded in you, but ultimately depending on where you live and the circle of musicians you surround yourself with, there is an impact. You become influenced by different things. I feel as though the ones that inspire us to write, sing and perform will never change. I've always been inspired by artists like John Mayer, Lana Del Rey and Adele for their music and writing. They've always inspired me and feel that there is a reflection of them in my music.
Do you work on a tight timeline always or do you go with the flow when it comes to your music?
It all really depends. I find that the music I write is very much inspired by current events and how I am feeling. So I find if I have a lot going on in my life and it is emotionally impacting me (good or bad) I can't help but to write about it. It's a process for me that's for sure so it really depends. One thing that is important for me with my music is that I always strive to write music that feels... music that makes people go 'oh yes I can relate to this.' So if what I write feels fake, shitty or forced I usually end up tossing it in the trash. I've written so many songs that I never end up using for that reason. If I am working with another artist then my timelines are always pretty tight.
Is it hard to let go of the music when it is done?
To be honest I am actually excited to let go of my music once it's done! I always can't wait to share it with my fans. The process and how the music got to where it ends up is always the more 'emotional' side of it for me. It's amazing to see how much a song can evolve and change and become something you never thought it would. There is always a vision in mind, but the end result is always just so wonderful. So once I get there, I can't wait to share it!
Do you feel an emotional attachment to your music?
I always feel an emotional attachment. As mentioned earlier I am passionate about writing songs that tell stories with the goal in mind helping others find meaning and connect. It is all about the emotional connection for me. So if you're into that then I feel like you'll like my music too.
How would you describe your music in one word to someone who hasn't listened to it yet?
'Heartfelt'... yup that's it.
Where do they go to listen NOW?
On all platforms :) Wherever you listen to music you will find me there!
What has been the best fan reaction to your music?
I've had many tiktoks done to my music which I always find so amusing. But what really stood with me the most over the years was when I got my first fan art! That was pretty cool!
Is there anything exciting coming up for you?
If you've been following me on social media you definitely know that I've been writing A LOT lately. Just hints to how I've been working on a lot of new music. I am very much excited about this because it'll be very different from what I've done so far in the sense that it will be VERY true to me as an artist and the music that I've always wanted to pursue as an artist. So big things are coming!
Are you performing the song anywhere LIVE?
Not at the moment but when the new music begins to be released you can be sure to hear me somewhere! Stay tuned!
Give us all your socials and links so fans can link up with you!
You can find all my socials here: https://linktr.ee/alyssamessina