Emerging Artist Spotlight: SOFIA ISELLA
Photo by Jasper Graham (@jazzejasper)
REVERB is proud to have partnered with SOFIA ISELLA on her first headlining tour as part of our Emerging Artist Program. With a fierce voice, bold perspective and deep commitment to sustainability, SOFIA is bringing purpose to every performance. We caught up with her to talk music, meaning, and taking action for the planet.
Your sound is uniquely your own. How would you describe your artistic voice, and what are the stories you’re most drawn to tell through your music? “Very commonly, when I’m writing, I ask myself what’s a topic I want people to pay attention to, or fight against. And then, how can I show them the reason and why they should want/need to focus on and fight that subject, through words.”
You’ve previously opened for acts like Taylor Swift and Melanie Martinez – but this is your first headlining tour. What did you learn from the experiences opening for such big acts? How has it been stepping into your first headlining tour? “Taylor and Melanie are some of the most generous, kind artists I know. Being around good people like that will always make you a better person yourself. Headlining is an animal. I’ve cried many times meeting the people who come to my shows with the stories they tell me.”
Why was touring sustainably a priority for you on this first headlining tour? “The earth always takes priority.”
When you’re not on the road, how do you integrate sustainability into your everyday life? “Maggie Baird, a great human and friend, has shown me a lot about that. I’m still learning. What I know is important is demanding big action from our lawmakers, because there’s only so far reusable straws will take us when we’re sending people to fucking space for the love of god.”
What do you want people to feel when they come to a SOFIA ISELLA show? Is there a message or mood you try to leave them with? “I want them to be ugly. I want them to be disgusting and terrifying and loud. I think that’s beautiful.”
How can your fans follow your example and take action for people & the planet? “Give the people in charge no rest. Not a moment of peace. Call your senators. Pay attention. I’m shocked by how many people I know have no idea what’s going on in the world. Watch them, watch what they’re doing.”
Photo by @zaucepan.co
