Hey Luana, How did you get into music?
At the tender age of 10, my love for music blossomed when I discovered the enchanting world of melodies and harmonies. It was my incredible mom, a talented music teacher, who nurtured my passion by giving me piano lessons. As the years passed, my devotion to music only grew stronger.
At 19, I decided to explore the power of vocals and embarked on a journey of vocal lessons.
This exploration led me to a whole new dimension of music, and when I turned 20, I took a bold step towards honing my craft by enrolling at the prestigious Saarland University of Music in Germany. There, for four years, I immersed myself in the captivating realm of opera singing, refining my skills and discovering the magic of classical music.
As the chapters of my musical journey continued to unfold, I found myself drawn to the world of songwriting and composing. My heart became captivated by the rhythmic beats and soulful tunes of Latin pop music and the contemporary pop genre, fueling my creativity and shaping my unique musical style.
In 2015, I took a daring leap, crafting a mesmerizing dance play titled “Life of a Dancer.” This theatrical masterpiece became a testament to my artistic expression, showcasing my profound connection to the diverse rhythms of life through music and dance. It was a defining moment in my career, one that left a lasting impression on the audience and further fueled my determination to make music that resonated with hearts and souls.
Throughout my creative journey, I sought inspiration from diverse sources, notably drawn to the captivating melodies of Bulgarian folk music and the allure of minimal music. These influences seeped into my compositions, adding a rich tapestry of cultural elements to my musical creations.
Today, I stand as a testament to the transformative power of music—a journey that started with the love and guidance of a devoted mother and evolved into an awe-inspiring adventure of discovery, creativity, and self-expression. With every note and lyric, I continue to craft a musical legacy that weaves together the threads of passion, inspiration, and cultural resonance. And as the music plays on, my heart remains forever dedicated to the art that has shaped my very existence.
Who are some of your musical influences?
Madonna, Pink Martini, Cyndi Lauper, Lindsey Stirling and Gloria Estefan are my musical
influences. They are all amazing artists with unique styles and messages. It’s truly empowering to find role models who show that anything is possible and that believing in yourself can lead to great achievements. I was able to write a song with Madonna‘s former percussionist, Miroca Paris, which is called La Soledad. I also worked out with her personal trainers, Nicole Winhoffer and Marlyn Ortiz. Her dedication and hard work inspired me a lot to keep moving forward, and to never give up.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?
The best advice I was ever given is to listen to my intuition. It has proven to be incredibly accurate, especially when it comes to sensing something off about a person. My intuition is keen in detecting negative energy and bad intentions. Trusting my intuition has been a valuable lesson in protecting myself from harmful relationships and situations.
Where do you draw your inspiration from?
I find my inspiration in the depths of my own experiences, even those that have been painful and traumatic. I am processing past friendships which turned out to be unhealthy, chaotic and dramatic.
It’s unfortunate that after investing time and kindness it can happen that friends choose to discard you when you are no longer useful to them. Discarding someone like yesterday’s trash can be hurtful and confusing, leaving unanswered questions and emotions lingering.
However, through it all, music has been my saving grace. Day by day, it helps me heal and find solace, allowing me to forgive myself for allowing such mistreatment and to raise my standards, vowing never to tolerate disrespect again.
In this journey of self-discovery and healing, I draw inspiration from my own resilience and strength. Through my music, I pour my emotions, transforming pain into art and expressing my journey to recovery. It’s a cathartic process that helps me navigate the scars left by traumatic relationships, as well as empowers me to embrace self-love and move forward with a newfound sense of purpose and wisdom.
I’m using this experience to be aware of narcissistic emotional abuse which fuels my songwriting. I find strength in connecting with friends who share similar experiences and struggle with mental health and I share my story with psychotherapists. Through self-study, journaling, and rewiring my mindset, I have learned to fill myself with self-love and validation.
And so, this musical gift will forever hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the day I was blessed to experience music’s purest form.
What are your thoughts on the current state of the music industry?
The music industry has transformed significantly over the years. With the rise of social media,
it’s now easier to rediscover music. However, making money from music has become more
challenging, especially with the dominance of streaming services like Spotify. Back in the 80s, it was simpler to get noticed and signed by a record label, but nowadays, artists are expected to have a strong online presence and a huge following before even being considered by major labels. This shift has made it harder to see a return on investment, as artists often have to cover expenses out of their own pockets. The industry has indeed undergone tremendous changes, becoming more competitive and demanding.
What’s the story behind your latest single, ”Scent From Heaven”?
On October 29th of 2022, as I was wrapping up the last episode of Season 1 of my TV show,
“Songs of My Life,” in Nashville, fate brought a beautiful moment into my life. Deborah Bishop, a talented and inspirational songwriter, was the guest of the day.
As the cameras rolled and the excitement filled the air, something magical happened. Inspiration struck, and the melody of “Scent from Heaven” started to resonate in our hearts. With creativity flowing like a river, Deborah and I sat down and crafted the song on the spot, pouring our emotions into every word and note.
Within just 30 minutes, “Scent from Heaven” was born, a harmonious blend of heartfelt lyrics and soul-stirring melodies. It felt like a gift from above, a serendipitous moment where the universe aligned to bless us with this musical gem.
The song spoke of love’s transcendence, a tale of two hearts finding each other against all
odds. It became an ode to the magic of music, a testament to the power of collaboration, and a celebration of the connection that music creates between souls.
As the echoes of our voices filled the studio, I knew this song was special. It carried an essence of the instant connection and creativity that sparked between Deborah and me during that unforgettable day. The harmony of our voices and the passion in our hearts resonated with the audience, leaving them touched by the authenticity and emotion woven into each lyric.
“Scent from Heaven” became more than just a song. It became a memory, a reminder of the
magic that can happen when artists come together, the beauty of spontaneous creation, and the profound impact music can have on our lives.
From that day forward, the song “Scent from Heaven” went on to touch the hearts of listeners
around the world. Its journey began on a Nashville soundstage, but its destination was far
beyond any of our imaginations. And so, this musical gift will forever hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the day I was blessed to experience music’s purest form, Scent from heaven.
Why should people listen to it?
Listen to my song, “Scent from Heaven,” and experience the uplifting and positive message it
carries. Inspired by Sue Phillips’ fragrance who owns a beautiful boutique at Madison Avenue,
New York, this song is a testament to the power of unity and collaboration.
The song unfolds the heartwarming tale of two singers coming together in harmony, their voices blending beautifully and supporting one another, symbolizing the strength found in unity. As you immerse yourself in the melody, you’ll be transported to a place of love and positivity, where the fragrance of Sue’s creation abandons all hatred and brings forth a wave of joy.
This first duet I’ve ever written and the first song penned together with my former co-writer is a testament to the beauty of shared creativity. Our voices intertwine to create a mesmerizing
musical journey that resonates deeply with listeners.
So, tune in to “Scent from Heaven” and let its enchanting melody and powerful message uplift
your spirits, leaving you inspired and filled with a sense of unity and positivity. Embrace the
magic of music, love, and friendship in this beautiful song that celebrates the connection
between two souls and the transformative power of fragrance.
How do you know when a work is finished?
Knowing when a work is finished is a deeply intuitive process for me. I can feel it in my soul
when the right take of my voice resonates perfectly with the music. It’s like a magical moment when everything comes together beautifully, and I can’t help but vibe to it and dance along. The synergy between the beats, lyrics, and melodies creates an electrifying sensation, confirming that the piece is complete.
Another key moment is when my music producer and I are in sync, both agreeing that this is the best take and the most refined version of the song. When we both feel that the essence of the music has been captured, and it’s ready to be released into the world, that’s when I know the work is truly finished. It’s a combination of instinct, artistic connection, and collaborative consensus that assures me I’ve created something special and ready to be shared with my audience.
What are your favorite musical genres, and are there any you dislike?
My favorite music genres are diverse, ranging from pop music and contemporary sounds to the soothing rhythms of minimal music. I also have a special love for the cultural richness found in Bulgarian folk music and the mesmerizing allure of oriental music. These genres resonate deeply with me, evoking various emotions and connecting me to different parts of the world.
On the other hand, heavy metal and German Schlager are not my cup of tea. While I respect
the artistic expression and appeal they hold for others, they simply don’t align with my personal taste and preferences. I find myself drawn more towards the melodic and harmonious elements present in my favorite genres, making them the perfect soundtrack to my musical journey.
Would you like to say anything to emerging artists?
To all emerging artists, my advice is this: never compromise your creative vision or let someone else control your career and life choices. You are the captain of your artistic journey, and your ideas are valuable. Don’t be discouraged by naysayers or those who dismiss your ideas as foolish. Believe in yourself and your talents.
In the entertainment industry, there can be jealousy and people who seek to take advantage of you. Be cautious and protect your spirit from those who may not have your best interests at heart. Be aware of those who play love games or expect transactions in return for their support. Step away from people who are hypersensitive, have a victim mentality and talk negatively about their exes and call them crazy and emotionally unstable. They are clearly possessed by the devil to cause harm.
Remember, you are worthy of respect and kindness. Don’t tolerate mistreatment from anyone, no matter their status or influence. Stand up for yourself and surround yourself with genuine, supportive friends who want the best for you. Quality over quantity is essential when it comes to friendships and collaborations.
Stay true to your authentic self, keep your focus on your art, and surround yourself with a
positive and trustworthy circle. This way, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the challenges of the industry while fostering a fulfilling and successful career.
