Alicia Rae is a singer-songwriter from Washington, DC. Her music consists of infectious pop songs with playful melodies and honest lyrics, similar to a hybrid of Taylor Swift, Michelle Branch, Vanessa Carlton and Kina Grannis.
The self-taught guitarist purchased her first guitar in 2009, and quickly found her knack for songwriting. A little shy, it took some convincing from her loved ones to perform at her first open mic in late 2012. Alicia was quickly recognized for her crisp vocals and catchy, relatable lyrics. She has played at festivals across the mid-Atlantic region. She’s also performed at famed Washington, DC music venues like Jammin’ Java and U Street Music Hall. She has also opened for award winning artists such as Mikaela Davis, Lewis Watson, Kawehi and Steve Moakler.
After working with producer Chris Rafetto, Alicia released Sweet Melody EP. From lust, to love, to heartbreak, each of the songs on her EP were inspired by a past experience, and she conveys that heart-felt emotion through her musical storytelling.
Inspired by a friend battling leukemia, Alicia is actively involved in community fundraising, and volunteering at DC’s Children’s Hospital. She wrote her newest single, “Little Warrior”, in honor of her friend, and for all children fighting cancer around the world. Armed with music meant to touch the soul, follow Alicia’s journey at www.AliciaRaeMusic.com.
In this interview spotlight, we speak with Alicia about her new single, influences, the digital music era and much more.
Full Q&A along with links and a stream of Little Warrior can be found below.
Let’s dive a little deeper into Alicia Rae, the artist and your music. What attracted you to being a singer-songwriter?
I’ve always loved music, singing, and writing poetry. After teaching myself how to play the guitar, I kind of stumbled upon songwriting without trying. It just happened one night. And I loved how it felt. My friends and family told me how much they liked my first song. So, I kept writing.
How long have you been creating and sharing your music with the public?
I wrote my first song in 2010, followed by a bunch of pieces of songs. I think I uploaded my first video in 2011 and got a really good response from it. It was a cover song of a rap song I turned acoustic.
At the end of 2012, I got up the courage to do my first open mic. I was terrified and forgot the words. I spent about 6 months working up the courage to go back out there again and felt really inspired after that open mic. I started going every week after that to really push through my fear of performing on stage. It slowly got easier, and I started getting offered to play festivals and open for touring acts.
A lot of people told me they wanted my songs recorded so they could listen in the car or at work. So, I teamed up with my producer, Chris Rafetto, and released Sweet Melody last year.
Who or what influences your playing and/or writing? Also, what motivates you to keep going?
Kina Grannis is my favorite artist. She inspired me to pick up the guitar. With writing, I tend to pull from anything that inspires me. A trip to the beach. A hike through the mountains. A fishing trip. A new song I hear on the radio. A conversation with a friend, or a stranger. Or, just something I see on television.
Motivation to keep going… pizza! Hah just kidding… Kind of. I feel like writing is a part of who I am. I like the growth that comes from reflecting. I feel like any artist feels a need to grow with their craft. I like to push myself to grow with my songwriting and in turn I feel like I grow as a person.
Were you trying to accomplish anything specific on this new single, “Little Warrior”? What’s the story behind it?
I wrote “Little Warrior” for my friend Maddie the night I found out her cancer had returned for the fifth time. I know cancer is a serious thing… but it sounded more serious this time than the others. Maddie was always a fighter. She fought cancer, and she fought the little things in life that tend to get people down. She was always happy, goofy, and optimistic. I wrote the song as a reminder for her of her strength. I used my gift of songwriting to show her how I see her every day: a little warrior.
I hope that the song can bring hope to all of the little warriors who have to fight a similar battle.
What was the last song you listened to?
I’ve had Javier Colon’s song “Gravity” on repeat for a couple of weeks now.
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
I like the mobility of MP3s.
How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?
I like the selection of playlists Spotify has, and the suggested music they send. I use it to check out new artists/music. I also like Noisetrade. I find a lot of new artists on that site.
Other than the digital era overwhelming us with access to an abundance of music, what are one or two of the biggest challenges you face when trying to attract listeners to your music?
Hmm.. I’m not sure. This is a tough question for me. I think money is probably the biggest challenge. Money to advertise and get noticed by new fans… And also the cost of making good recordings.
Do you gig, tour or perform? Do you ever live stream? Where can music lovers see you live?
I gig around the Washington, DC area. I’ve played at venues like Jammin Java and U Street Music Hall. I’ve been thinking about setting up a live stream concert, but that’s still in the works. I’m currently taking some time off from shows, but music lovers can always visit my website for information on any upcoming shows. AliciaRaeMusic.com
Where is the best place to connect with you online? Discover more of your music?
Great question! I’ll list them here:
- Facebook.com/AliciaRaeMusic
- YouTube.com/AliciaRaeMusic
- AliciaRaeMusic.com
- Instagram.com/AliciaRaeMusic
Any last thoughts? Shout outs? Words of wisdom?
I want to thank you for taking a moment to interview me today!
I’d like to talk a little bit about childhood cancer research. One thing most people don’t know is that the National Cancer Institute (NCI) only uses 4% of its funding for childhood cancer research. The rest of the funding is allocated for adult cancer research. So, throughout the years, adult cancer procedures have advanced, but childhood cancer treatments have barely advanced at all (due to lack of funding).
So, someone may ask, “well, what can I do to help?” Great question! Contact your local officials and speak your concerns. Contact NCI. Inform those around you. And, if you’re able, do research on charities and donate.
I’ll be donating a portion of the proceeds from “Little Warrior” to CureSearch, a charity aimed at finding a cure for childhood cancers.
Also, I’ll leave you with this quote from Maddie, my inspiration for “Little Warrior”
“Love, my only answer is LOVE.” – Maddie Grace, Warrior Princess
