A Chat with Cynthia Angelica (26.06.22)
Influenced by a melting pot of artists like Sarah McLachlan, Tori Amos, Kim Walker-Smith and Sade, singer-songwriter Cynthia Angelica has a fascinating sound to share. We speak with her about her new single ‘Grace’, musical inspiration, pet peeves and more.
OSR: What inspires you to make music?
Cynthia Angelica: I’ve always been a storyteller, and for me, music is a part of that tradition. I’ve served as an executive ghostwriter for more than a decade, which is an intriguing role. There is something empowering about using your own voice though. I believe we were meant to as human beings. Music has become a creative form for me where my voice is my own. I’m most inspired to make music because of the positive impact it has on me and others. I’m challenged to live up to the lyrics just as much as my listeners are.
OSR: Is there a backstory to your single ‘Grace’?
Cynthia Angelica: ‘Grace’ is one of the first songs I wrote for the album. My brother Kevin envisioned the signature orchestral sound for ‘Grace’ that would inform the entire project. ‘Grace’ was one of the songs that came out very quickly – first the chorus and later the verses. The song is not meant to be overly optimistic or saccharine, but realistic – and yet, still hopeful somehow. I wrote ‘Grace’ during a dark season, and it helped me find my way back to the light.
OSR: What do you hope people take from ‘Grace’?
Cynthia Angelica: You have what it takes within you to overcome the challenges you’re facing because you are stronger than you know. It doesn’t mean the journey will be easy but look at our history as a people and all that we’ve come through. Perhaps the biggest takeaway from the song is just because something isn’t easy does not mean it’s not worth it.
OSR: What do you take from ‘Grace’?
Cynthia Angelica: It’s interesting. As an artist, once I finish writing a song I feel like it no longer belongs to me, almost as if it’s released into the atmosphere. So in many ways, I experience ‘Grace’ as a new listener does. There’s certainly a divinity attached to the idea of grace in general, and my song is meant to carry this element of mystery and sacredness.
OSR: ‘Grace’ is from an upcoming debut album. What can you tell us about the album?
Cynthia Angelica: My debut album, Fears and Dreams, contains 10 tracks that are inward-looking and outward-facing examining the troubled state of our world and how we can best engage with it. The collection of songs is inspired taking listeners on a journey from fear to faith, hopelessness to hope, and death to life. The album is meant to be experienced. I’m grateful to have partnered with Dave Mallen of award-winning studio Innovation Station Music for this project. I’m proud of what we’ve created together, and I trust the songs will speak to wide audiences.
OSR: If you could change anything about ‘Grace’, what would it be?
Cynthia Angelica: When I listen to ‘Grace’ I’ve started to hear a choir in the background. My roots are in the Black church and gospel music has some of the most stunning complex harmonies and arrangements of all genres in my opinion. To clarify, I’m speaking specifically of gospel music, not Christian music. For a future live performance, I’d love to explore adding a choir to the background of ‘Grace’.
OSR: Do you have any pet peeves?
Cynthia Angelica: Yes, I definitely have a few. I’ll share one here and we’ll save the rest for another time. I can’t stand dirty, dusty and untidy environments. Whether it’s a restaurant, a car, an office, or a home. Just can’t stand it. Those types of environments make me feel stifled.
OSR: If you could perform with any artist, who would it be and why?
Cynthia Angelica: I would love to perform with Howard Shore and contribute vocals to one of his films. He’s most well known for The Lord of the Rings score, and I’d love to collaborate with him on a similar project. I have so many words to describe Howard Shore’s masterpieces: melancholy, mesmerising, one of a kind. He transports listeners to fantasy worlds and his collaborations with artists that include some of my influences make the result that much more powerful. Whenever I listen to Howard Shore, I feel something magical and otherworldly.
OSR: What is your favourite item of clothing you own?
Cynthia Angelica: I’ll share a recent favourite find. I was at a consignment shop two weeks before I was scheduled to record a music video for one of my singles and I found a beautiful vintage dress. It’s black and royal blue with velvet accents and stylish feathers along the bottom half. It was on display at the shop and I circled around to it two or three times before I finally asked the owner to try it on. It fit perfectly as if it were made for me, so I purchased it and wore it for the video shoot. I’ve always loved consignment shops and thrift shops since you can find eclectic pieces that are not available anywhere else.
Many thanks to Cynthia Angelica for speaking with us. For more from Cynthia Angelica check out her official website, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.
