Alyssa Jolie is a talented singer and songwriter hailing from Toronto. Known for her dynamic live streams, she captivates audiences with her powerful performances of both popular songs and original compositions. Her style blends R&B, alternative and jazz influences, drawing inspiration from the likes of Lana Del Rey, Amy Winehouse, and Giveon.
A lifelong musician, Alyssa began singing and playing piano at the age of 12 and has been honing her craft ever since. Throughout high school, she seized every opportunity to showcase her talents at school events and assemblies. Now at 18, Alyssa is set to continue pursuing her passion as a student at the prestigious Berklee School of Music.
We recently sat down with Alyssa and discussed her background, musical process, and entrepreneuship:
Q: Can you tell us a bit about your background? Where did you grow up, and where are you currently based?
A: I am first generation Romanian Canadian. Growing up in Toronto, I have been fortunate to experience the cultural differences. This has inspired my music in many ways. I have attended an IB high school, as well as the Royal Conservatory of Music for piano and vocals, and am currently working towards achieving my Grade 10 Piano Certificate. I also recently have been accepted into the renowned Berklee College of Music in Boston, which I will be attending next year.
Q: How did you begin in the music industry, and what got you into making music? How long has that been a part of your life?
A: Music has been at the core of my life since childhood. Since very early, I was captivated by my father’s high end music equipment and listening to so many different styles of music. I started taking classical piano lessons at 11. It wasn’t long after, when I began singing, accompanying myself and performing at various school events and just about every family get together. All this naturally led to writing, composing and releasing my own music.
Q: Can you talk about your musical process?
A: Crafting music is an adventure – from discovering melodies to piano chords. I’m not confined to a particular genre or sound as each song takes me on its own unique journey. As for recording, I track my own vocals. Being in my own studio environment allows me to explore the endless possibilities within a song. I love spending time adding harmonies/background vocals.
Q: You seem to have blown up on TikTok, having 400k+ followers right now. How did that happen? Why did you decide to start on TikTok? Any tips for musicians wanting to expand on the platform?
A: I started on TikTok with various artistic twist on cover songs. Then moved to live streaming, taking song requests from viewers while singing and accompanying myself on the piano. I find connecting with people from all around the world incredibly enjoyable as both a performer and a creator. My following grew rather quickly, I was gaining over 5,000 followers during each live. So naturally, I kept doing it.
Q: Do you have plans on releasing other new music soon? Potentially an EP or album?
A: The process of creating new music is very exciting. I am currently working on some new ideas. An EP will be in the works some time this year.
Q: Outside of music, you’re also the founder of Jolie Co, which is a belly jewelry brand. Can you tell us a bit about the idea and how that came to fruition?
A: Art is just that. Whether it’s music or some other form. I am passionate about body jewelry in general and I believe it is such a cool form of self-expression. Jolie Co stems out of my desire to create a sophisticated collection of fine belly rings and dangly charms that are interchangeable so you can create your own personal look as often as you want.
There are so many that love the look of a long dangly belly rings but find it painful to frequently change their belly ring. In some cases, it’s just flat out inconvenient as they are relying on professionals to change the bar for them or just find them uncomfortable and difficult to wear for long. If you have an active lifestyle and are always on the go such as in and out of the gym and getting with friends or at events, my line enables you to change up your look with ease. And best of all it is just comfortable to wear.
Q: Are you planning on expanding the brand with new products down the line?
A: We have planned launches every month in 2023, so there’s lots on the schedule for this upcoming year.
Q: What impact do you hope to continue to make in both your music career and career outside of music?
A: As an artist, I have come to recognize the value of creative expression. And as that deep thinker that spend hours reflecting, I sure hope to create music that others will relate to. The body jewelry initiative has expanded the ways in which I can explore my passions and express myself. I hope to inspire other young creative minds to follow their dreams in the way in which I have.
Instagram: @itsalyssajolie
