Artist of the Day | VELOURS
ARTIST OF THE DAY
01.05.2021
VELOURS
LOCATION
Saskatoon, SK, Canada
GENRE
Alternative Pop
CURRENT MEMBERS
Solo Artist
With the current pandemic, the state of the music and touring industry has dramatically changed. Where were you when everything was brought to a halt?
It's definitely changed how we connect and perform as artists! I saw the news online that the Junos were officially cancelled because of the virus and I was completely distraught. There was this amazing music community event where emerging artists like me and veteran musicians would meet-up and we'd gain insight from the professionals. With the pandemic, that halted for a bit but luckily was revived online! That's what we've all had to do really, is just adapt online. It was initially hard-hitting since I had only one song released at the time and wasn't close to a recognized musician in my hometown. The best thing to do is to keep pushing forward and finding new ways to grow and meet industry pros, which I did! I'm very lucky to have the music community I do.
How has that affected your plans for the coming year? Did you have a tour planned, upcoming album release?
I was so excited for my first official music video release and the release of my debut EP! It really felt like the first single "Summer Haze" and subsequent EP "Identity" were going to introduce me to the music scene as a professional artist, and no pandemic got in the way of my releases! I turned to social media and online entirely and still released my new music as planned. I did have a plan for an EP release party, but decided to turn it into a livestream performed outside with masks and social distancing. I was excited about touring and it's still one of my most anticipated parts as a performer once the pandemic ends. No releases halted and I've just been keeping on and connecting with my audience!
What have you been doing to fill/make the most of your new-found free time at home? How are you supporting your mental health through all of this?
Not much has changed for me, luckily haha! I've been fortunate to have my mom and our five animals (three big dogs and two kitties) to hang out with. There's so many shows and movies to watch, new music to jam out to, and books on my shelf to read! I love making music and learning some of my fave songs on the piano or ukulele, so a big thing I've taken advantage of recently is posting music clips and going live with my followers. It's fun! I'm better and don't stress as much about posting when I'm spontaneous, so that's what I try to do! Mental health is something social media is starting to address more, which is fantastic. Personally, the best way to take care of myself is the constant reminder that I don't have to be perfect or always positive. I'm naturally a really happy person, but my anxiety will creep in and whisper that I'm not good enough or should stop trying. So many people struggle with anxiety and I think what's working for me is to take a step back and remind myself that I'm doing my best and will usually take a break from whatever it is I'm focused on. Taking those beats and calming your mind is essential. I'm fortunate to have an amazing mom who helps me and supports me when I'm feeling down as well. The pups and kitties are the best cuddlers and we all know that's an essential in mental health!
How are dealing with the Covid third wave?
I've just been keeping positive, writing music, and appreciating every day! The best thing we can all do is stay inside, wear our masks, and treat everyone with kindness. I miss the little things like meeting up with a friend at a cafe or heading to a park with my cousins. It'll get better of course and it's going to be insanely awesome to experience normalcy again!
Favourite Starlite Room Moment?
I'm a huge vinyl fan so your Vinyl Unveils are always so cool!
Do you have a message for everyone at home reading this?
Hey, beautiful people! Just remember that you're enough, you are loved, and taking time for yourself and the people you love is essential. Enjoy the little things and don't forget to have fun!
If you would like to be our next ARTIST OF THE DAY please email us at:
JEN@CONCERTWORKS.CA
