In this interview spotlight, I chat with Killin’ Candace about their new release (Miss Deception), challenges, motivations and more.
Full Q&A along with links and music below.
Where are you from and what style of music do you create? (In your own words, not necessarily in marketing terms or by popular genre classifications.)
Killin’ Candace was formed in Hollywood, California. The overall sound of the band is a mesh of Rock, Punk and melodic Metal styles. We like to consider it our very own brand of “Love/Hate Rock ’N’ Roll”.
What led you down this path of music and what motivates you to stay on course?
I have always been inspired by music and art (in all forms), it just seems to resonate with me. I feel like music is ingrained in my soul for life and that I couldn’t get away from it even if I tried, so I almost feel like this path was put in front of me, and that I didn’t choose music, but music chose me. It’s absolutely my passion and biggest love – so those things alone keep me constantly hungry, along with writing and developing new music ideas. I think being in a town like Hollywood where you are instantly connected with so many like-minded, talented musicians is a great way to stay on the course too, as you can feed off of others’ energy, and really contribute to your local music scene.
How is “Miss Deception” different than your previous projects? Did you set out to accomplish anything specific?
So the song “Miss Deception” is a newer song that I literally wrote out of nothing, about two months before heading into the studio last year. I was playing around with a guitar riff and some lyrics, then from there it all just seemed to flow. I had four set songs I was going to record and at the last minute, I decided to scrap one of the songs as I felt like Miss Deception had more of an “anthem style” feel to it and would allow a truer and more honest introduction to the band’s sound.
I have always had a punky, hard rock swagger to any music project I’ve been involved with because it’s essential for me to play a style that has a lot of drive and energy to it. So naturally, when I write it always ends up being a very upbeat and up-tempo kind of sound. I feel like with Killin’ Candace I’ve also finally managed to mature my songwriting to where the music has the ability to reach more of a wider market, audience, where in the past I have been guilty of confining myself to a particular audience or fanbase.
I don’t feel like I set out to accomplish anything specific with this band. I always had a plan and an idea of what I wanted to see happen, or how the project would evolve, but I’m also a very realistic person so I tend to keep my feet on the ground whilst at the same time being a bit of a dreamer. I knew I had a good concept and a handful of catchy songs, and I honestly just wanted to build gradually, record the debut EP, put it out there for the world to hear and hope that someone somewhere gets the message and that the songs resonate with them.
Do you face challenges as a musician in a digital age? How has technology helped you (assuming it helps)?
Yes and no…The industry has for sure changed since we have entered the digital age/era, and in some ways, I think we should be grateful and embrace technology but there is definitely a downside too. Developments in technology have allowed us much convenience, especially for musicians or artists that independently run their own show. You have the ability to promote your brand via social media and have a lot more access to the necessary industry sources, contacts etc, while also being able to use the most modern and state of the art products, allowing you pristine results as far as production quality goes.
I personally feel the biggest challenge for artists these days is standing out..now you may think that’s easy if you have a unique sound or look etc. because true talent will get recognized and speaks for itself? Yes to some extent, but one of the biggest things to overcome is getting lost in a sea of other competing and emerging bands. Also, as good as social media is and the way it allows us to self-promote, it also has given people who may not actually have a natural artistic ability, the ability to brand themselves and advertise as whatever they choose to, regardless of whether they have a legitimate talent or not. So this is one thing that frustrates me a little because sometimes bands and artists that do put in the time and work to attempt to have a career don’t get the recognition they deserve, or maybe they slip through the net of label and management companies because they have to sift through so much of the same, rehashed and regenerated sounds, artists.
Where can we connect with you online and discover more music?
All major digital music platforms: Spotify, cd baby, Amazon Music, Apple music, YouTube music etc.
Anything else before we sign off?
Thanks so much for your time and giving us the chance to promote the latest single release. As an independent artist, it can be tricky and it means a lot to the band to have the opportunity to gain some great exposure. Please be sure to check out our debut music video for “Miss Deception” that just dropped!
