Carissa Johnson has released her latest music video, “Tourist,” off her latest E.P. Blue Hour. The music video, a collaboration with Jampson Films, features Carissa in her apartment, experiencing day-to-day tasks as a tourist in her own home. Reflecting on her experiences during quarantine, the music video uses humor to cope with feelings of isolation.
“This song came about from a feeling of feeling like a stranger to the life I was living during the pandemic,” says Johnson. “The characters from Times Square come into my apartment as if it happens every day and I’m numb to the experience. I think it’s a perfect way to visually depict the song because it’s a funny way of showing that feeling — it’s like being a tourist in a place you’re actually familiar with.” says Johnson.
In this interview spotlight, I chat with Carissa about her latest release, surviving the pandemic, technology and more.
Full Q&A along with links and music below.
Where are you from and how do you describe your style of music?
I’m from Boston MA but currently residing in NYC. Bubblegrunge, trashglam, sadhappyindiesynth, powerpoprockpunk, all of that combined.
What inspired or motivated you to take on this journey through music and the music biz?
I’ve always been a lover of music and as a kid it was just all around me growing up. I always had guitars in the house, my parents are both creative people and a career in the realm of art was always encouraged. I started writing songs in middle school, being somewhat of a loner growing up, it was my way of staying sane and expressing myself.
How does this music video compare/contrast with your previous work? Were you setting out to accomplish anything specific, follow a specific theme, or explore different styles of creation?
This song is definitely a stretch from what I’ve done for the past handful of years with my music, but it’s been so fun to experiment with different sounds. There’s a lot more glockenspiel on this song than anything I’ve ever done before, and it has more of a synthier vibe than every other one of my songs. I wrote this one very quickly on GarageBand, and was going for a Smiths-like sad song that feels devastating but hopeful. I was playing around with the musical keyboard on GarageBand and just made the most obnoxious sounds I possibly could because I was working through some difficult emotions and it made me smile.
Name the biggest challenge you faced as a creative during these unprecedented times. How did you adapt? How have you kept the creative fires burning during all this?
I think the biggest challenge I’ve faced has been that feeling of starting over. There have been a lot of moments in my career up to this point that have felt that way, but nothing like it has lately. It’s a challenge but I think it’s necessary because each time I’ve felt this, things have definitely up-leveled and really shifted for the better. I’m good at staying self-motivated and giving myself deadlines, and I think that’s how I was able to get Blue Hour finished, and to document that year. I’m good at putting myself in different places and new situations and I think a change of scenery and a big move have helped tremendously.
What was the last song you listened to?
Forever 21 by Number One Popstar. I am currently obsessed with all four of her songs and videos.
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? 8-tracks? Cassettes? CDs? MP3s? Streaming platforms?
Vinyl! Something magic about vinyl records. I listen mostly to Spotify, but I love vinyl as a format the best.
Where is the best place to connect with you and follow your journey?
Instagram @carissajohnsonmusic
I really appreciate your time. Anything else before we sign off?
Lots of shows coming up and more music videos, so keep an eye out!
