Hiya Xan, thank you for joining us today on the Virtual RGM Lounge. Grab a beer and take a seat.
What made you decide that music was for you?
Music has been an important part of my life since I was five years old. I love dancing and singing and always wondered why everyone didn’t sing all the time like in musicals. Currently, I pursue music both as a passion and as a full-time job as a music distributor. Music consumes my life in the best way.
Please introduce the members and your musical history to everyone.
I was born and raised in Nashville, Tennessee. It didn’t take long for me to fall in love with music. I took piano lessons at the age of six, and voice lessons soon after. At age 12, I started writing songs with a friend, and from age 17 to 19 I was in a local indie rock band.
What was the first song you heard that introduced you to music?
My earliest memory is hearing “Telstar” by the Tornadoes when I was three years old. That song fascinated me as a child. I appreciated how music evoked emotions and eventually wanted to make music myself.
Where do you think you are in the music industry right now?
“Kiss Me Through the Phone” is my debut single, so my career can only go up from here! I’m excited about the future and can’t wait to release more original singles this year. In the meantime, I will continue to post covers on her TikTok/Instagram @xanpalma and perform around Nashville, Tennessee.
What’s the biggest thing you’ve learned from others in the industry?
The most important lesson I learned in the music industry is to be kind to everyone. It’s a small industry, so word spreads. But more importantly, life becomes easier when you treat others with respect and grace.
Tell me two truths and one lie about yourself.
I’m a self-taught guitarist. I speak Italian. I have an MBA.
If you could wish for one thing to help your career, what would it be?
Ability to pay someone to help me grow and manage my social media accounts. That’s nice!
What sets you apart as a band/artist?
My lyrics are inspired by everyday life. When I write, I try to be direct and specific with my language and musical phrasing. I hope that paying attention to my lyrics as well as my singing ability will help me stand out as an artist.
I heard you have new music. Can you tell me anything about it?
In 2024, I plan to release two more singles, also inspired by my lived experiences. They recreate the high-energy, anthemic vibe of “Kiss Me Through the Phone,” while venturing into more revealing and dramatic territory lyrically and vocally.
What was the recording process like?
Recording with Noah and Herschel at Southside Sounds in Nashville was natural and fun. I met Herschel VanDyke at a yoga studio in Nashville and did a gig with him and Noah Bellamy. We quickly recorded several songs together. I wrote the lyrics and melody, Noah and Herschel helped with the production, Herschel played the drums, Noah played all the other instruments, and we recorded and mixed the tracks. Mastering engineer: Preston Cochran.
What was the biggest learning curve in writing new songs?
I have much more fun composing on the guitar than on the piano. That’s because it’s close to the sound I’m aiming for. As a self-taught guitarist, I sometimes find myself wanting to play things that are beyond my level of proficiency. Playing music is a learning progression with ebbs and flows. You want to improve steadily and it’s best to maintain a lighthearted sense of your art.
Now that it’s complete, are there any changes?
Musically, I wouldn’t change anything. I’m working on a music video for this track and can’t wait to share it with the world.
Is there anything else you would like to share with the world?
thank you for reading!
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