Currently based in Long Island, NY, Tina DeCara is a tour-de-force of a singer-songwriter. Her soulful voice and songwriting capabilities were inspired by some of the greatest performers of the music world.
Having released her new single, Tina talks to us about her inspirations, being a songwriter in New York and more.
T.H.E – Hey Tina! Welcome to T.H.E – Music Essentials. How has 2018 been for you?
Tina DeCara – Hey! Thanks for having me! 2018 has been a year of growing and letting go!
T.H.E – You’ve listed Amy Winehouse, Lady Gaga, Dave Grohl amongst your influences. What was it about these guys that inspired you to take up singing and songwriting?
Tina DeCara – I saw Dave Grohl at Madison Square Garden when I was 15 and have always been in love with a passion for music. Amy Winehouse is a legend, a soulful beauty that has inspired me to find my inner soul at such a young age. I’ve always admired jazz music and was in SCMEA Jazz All-State when I was in high school. Lady Gaga is one of the best performers I’ve ever seen. And her love for not giving a shit is inspirational!
T.H.E – Throughout your journey on becoming a songwriter, whom would you say has been the most supportive group of people around you?
Tina DeCara – The most supportive people around me during this musical journey would be my parents. They are always here to support me and motivate me to keep plugging on.
T.H.E – How is it being a songwriter in New York, and what are some of the toughest challenges you have faced in the city?
Tina DeCara – One of the toughest challenges I’ve faced in NYC as an artist is realizing that all you have is yourself, and you must hustle and stay motivated even if you’re alone in the Big Apple.
T.H.E – Your new single – Solo, is all about “loving yourself when you’re at your loneliest”. Was this song inspired by a personal story? How did you manage to push yourself through it?
Tina DeCara – Yes, loving yourself when you’re so lonely and low. That’s where “Solo” came from, I was so low. I was in my room alone, realized most of the friends I had were not my real friends and weeded them out. It became so clear to me that it’s OK to feel this way and you can’t grow without.
T.H.E – How long was it in the works?
Tina DeCara – I wrote this song over the summer and got the track from my manager and fell in love with the melancholy vibe.
T.H.E – In 2019, what can we expect from you?
Tina DeCara – A song on the radio. And a lot of performances, I hope!
T.H.E – Lastly, name 5 artists you would like to collaborate with?
Tina DeCara – OH dang, Post Malone, DJ Khaled, SZA, Calvin Harris, and Marshmello!
