Los Angeles-based artist FAANGS is back with her new single ‘I Don’t Care’
Originally from Canada, FAANGS moved to Los Angeles to mastermind her strikingly futuristic take on pop. After years of commitment, perfecting songwriting, delving into countless sessions and demonstrating that she’s the real deal, FAANGS is finally getting the recognition she deserves.
We chatted to FAANGS about her new single and being a woman in a male-dominated industry.
How did you first get started in music? Was there a moment where you knew this was something you wanted to pursue?
I’ve always been infatuated with music. I grew up playing several instruments and started singing before I could talk. When I was 5 years old, my dad gave me a keyboard he had when he was in college, and from that moment forward, I would lock myself in my room learning new chords and writing songs. I’ve never stopped since!
Tell us about your new single ‘I Don’t Care’. What inspired it?
‘I Don’t Care’ is the ultimate anthem for letting go and being unapologetically wild. I’m at this point in my life where I genuinely don’t give a flying fuck about what anyone has to say about me, what I wear, who I am, and what I do. I felt like I needed to make a track that all misfits could rock out to, because I know I’m not alone. Summer is just around the corner, and I KNOW we are all about to let loose and go crazy!
What makes you the most excited and/or scared when releasing new music?
There’s always a fear with releasing new music into the world because I’m a new artist, I definitely want my music to resonate with people the way I hope it will. But I know that the music will find its way, which makes me extremely excited. Every time I release new music, all I can dream about is being able to play a live one day, and having people sing along, laugh, cry, dance, and feel something. It’s a very exciting stage in my life.
Do you do anything, in particular, to get into the ‘zone’ when writing music? Do you have any rituals?
It’s funny, my ritual for writing music is no ritual at all! I never prepare for a session, I never know what I’m gonna make when I go in that day, and I never do anything that’s the same. I find that the one place in my life where there’s no anxiety or pressure is in the studio. It’s my one safe space where nothing is planned, or over calculated. That’s when my best music is made. It’s my dark paradise.
How would you describe your sound?
My sound is a combination of trap, pop, and a fuck ton of attitude. It can be vulnerable and beautiful, cinematic, while you can also go crazy to it at a show or in the club. The ultimate blend of trap and pop.
What’s the hardest thing about being a woman in an industry that is dominated by men?
When I read this question, my brain over calculated 800 answers. Haha. I’m not going to lie, being a woman, (a young one at that) in this industry that is male-dominated, is very challenging, at times. There are many challenges, but right now in my life, I would say the biggest challenge is fighting to have my opinion be heard with sincerity and respect. Oftentimes, me speaking up for myself, or expressing how I need something to be because it is my vision, is shot down, and minimized because I am a female. I am a very outspoken, bold individual, which is often interpreted as me either being a bitch, or having a bad attitude. All women can relate to this. I know I’m not alone, so that’s why I continue to be bold with what I need, what I want, and how I want things to be done. If someone doesn’t take me seriously I simply keep my head up, turn around and walk away.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Accept and love who you are, because there is only one you in the world. You don’t need to change for anyone, you are beautiful, you are strong, and you can do anything you set your mind to. Stop at nothing, and love who you see in the mirror.
What would be the theme tune to your life?
That’s a tricky one! I feel like it would be Bohemian Rhapsody because it’s so chaotic, but also cinematic. My life doesn’t even feel real at this point, I’ve been in the industry since I was very young, and I’m very fortunate to be living the life that I live. It feels very chaotic, but at times it is very slow, blurry and beautiful. How many layers to it, like Bohemian Rhapsody. I’m also a huge fan of Queen.
What’s next for you?
I have my debut project dropping June 25, called “teeth out “. I’ve been rehearsing for live shows the past few weeks, and we will continue to rehearse, which makes me extremely excited. I’m just finishing up the batch of music videos for the project that is coming out, and a few surprises along the way. Everything is going by very fast, but I’m thrilled to welcome people into my world. FAANGS WORLD.