Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with LIVVIA

Pop singer-songwriter LIVVIA knows a thing or two about creating magic in the studio. Hits like “Catch A Body” and “Damn” have been staples on the Billboard charts, and connected with fans around the world.

Earlier this summer, LIVVIA offered listeners a beautiful escape with her latest single. We caught up with LIVVIA to learn more about her, her career, and the release of “Beautiful Escape.”

PC: How did you discover your passion for music?
LIVVIA: I’ve always been fascinated by songwriting specifically. My mom tells stories of my very early gravitation to musical instruments and how I would teach myself to play songs by ear.

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
LIVVIA: The desire to be a positive influence and impact lives the way mine has been impacted by the music and artists I love.

PC: You’ve had a lot of success already in your career. When you look back, is there a particular moment that stands out?
LIVVIA: The view from an arena stage is unmatched. That’s when I really feel I’ve done what I’ve dreamed of.

PC: You’ve toured with some of music’s biggest artists. What did you learn from those experiences that you’ve been able to apply to your career?
LIVVIA: One thing that has stuck with me and I’ve noticed just by observing—because I watch the headliner every night, over and over—is being extremely well rehearsed but also always leaving room to make every show special and unique for each audience. Also, just being kind to everyone and making the tour a friendly, welcoming environment. It makes all the difference, and I’m so lucky to have toured with such warm, generous artists.

PC: Having been a part of this industry for over ten years, what’s one thing you know now that you wish you knew when you started?
LIVVIA: Stand your ground! Your artistic inclinations are what will set you apart and keep your passion alive. You need uniqueness to succeed and passion to hold on during the dips on the roller coaster.

PC: Tell us about your new single, “Beautiful Escape.” What inspired the song?
LIVVIA: It’s a love song at its core, but it can definitely relate to any kind of nostalgia. It’s really interesting that it was written a while ago, but the timing of the song relates so perfectly to the disillusionment many of us are feeling these days.

PC: As we look ahead to the rest of 2020, what does the year hold for you?
LIVVIA: I have a handful of projects that I have revisited during quarantine. I’m planting the seeds and looking forward to seeing them come to fruition in the months and years to come. I have to get comfortable with the reality that one of my favorite aspects of my music career, touring, is off the table for a while and turn my attention to what else I can do to be productive and inspired during this time.

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
LIVVIA: The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt cast. That theme song is a bop.

PC: First album you bought?
Livvia: Sheryl Crow

PC: First concert you attended?
LIVVIA: Hilary Duff

PC: An album that changed your life and why?
LIVVIA: Parachutes by Coldplay was the soundtrack to the happiest times of my childhood.

PC: A venue on your bucket list to perform at?
LIVVIA: Oracle Arena in Oakland, California. I saw my first few concerts there. I’m from the Bay Area, and I went to UC Berkeley, so I would always pass it on my way from school to work in LA.

PC: A must-have on the road?
LIVVIA: Good friends.

To keep up with LIVVIA, follow her on Twitter, Instagram, and Spotify. Pick up or stream “Beautiful Escape” today.