Maia Hirasawa Exclusive Interview
If you’re anywhere in Scandinavia you probably know all about Hirasawa. Maia draws from a musical palette of Jazz and Broadway-style piano ballads and pulls some themes from folk and pop genres to create her unique sound. Her style is generally a muted and wistful reflection; she frequently undercuts even her bubblier, more optimistic seeming pop tunes with shades of lyrical uncertainly and ambiguity. This is especially true of the albums bigger hits.
Daniel: When did you realize that music was your calling
Maia: ” I started with music quite late, when I was 17 years old. It wasn´t until I was without music I understood it was something I had to do. I took a break from everything and travelled for 6 months. When I was far away from the daily life I realized how important music was for me. I think I was 24 years old. ”
Daniel: From what do you draw upon for your musical inspiration. Who are your major influences in the music industry?
Maia: ” I get inspired by everything around me. From my life and from my friends lives. Talented people inspires me also, whether it´s a good chef, a beautiful dancer or a great composer. The Beach Boys and The Beatles are two major musical influences, but I also love classical piano music like Chopin. ”
Daniel: What has been the most difficult part of breaking through into this
industry?
Maia: ” That when I was breaking through, there was so many things happening at the same time. In the beginning it was hard to understand everything and have
the time to enjoy things. Now I am more relaxed and better to say stop, when
there´s too man things to do. ”
Daniel: What has been the most rewarding part?
Maia: ” All this wonderful moments at the stage and to meet all my fans. To play live on a beautiful venue, with a great audience. There´s nothing better
than that. ”
Daniel: I’ve noticed that you have a Diary on your website, but it’s all in Swedish! will you consider to write in English for your fans?
Maia: ” Of course. All for you :) ”
Maia Hirasawa at the Melodifestivalen, Performing the song: The Worrying Kind.
Daniel: I know you touched many peoples hearts at the Melodifestivalen by covering the song The Worrying Kind, what did it feel like to win? Tell us about the experience; what doors did it open for you?
Maia: ” That was a big step for me in my career. When I decided to do that cover I really wanted it to be like a “Maia song”. Because I was performing in the biggest TV show in Sweden many people wanted to say their opinion, but I was very strict with what I wanted to do. It turned out really well and it made me stronger. That I really could believe in myself, be myself and I didn’t have to listen to what everyone else said. ”
Daniel: Your album is due out in February 2009 through Thrive Records; how did you hook up with Thrive Records in the US?
Maia: ” I think they found me on MySpace and contacted me there. ”
Daniel: Thrive Records is releasing your album in 2009 this label is primarily known for their dance completions. What brought you to sign with this label?
Maia: ” I have never been in contact with more enthusiastic people than the ones from Thrive. It´s important for me to work with people who respect me and don’t want to change me as an artist and Thrive was perfect for that. ”
Daniel: Since the album was such a success in Scandinavia, what are your hopes for the US release?
Maia:” I don´t really know what my expectations are. I know US is a very tough market, if just one buy my record I´m happy. But of course I have a dream to go to US and tour and meet all of you.
Daniel: What are your hopes for the new year?
Maia: ” That 2009 will be great, but quite calm year for me D. ”
Daniel: Maia, thanks again for this lovely interview. We really love your music and you as a person!
Maia Hirasawa Interview Copyright © Bloginity LLC
Related articles ..
