Last year singer/songwriter 19 yr old Tianna Thompson from South London was due to take some time out of her education to explore her music career, however, the pandemic struck and Tianna was unable to gig and get work experience in the music industry. Forced into staying at home, Tianna took to writing music and released two inspiring singles, Rise Up and Sometimes. Below we catch up with Tianna and find out a little more about what inspires her and when she’s not writing and recording music, what she gets up to.
Scroll down to read….
Could you tell us a little more about how you got into writing and recording music?
When I was younger my mum used to write poems, she is very creative. When I was aged 10, I decided that I wanted to try to write poems. I had a go and loved it and feel this is where my love of writing has sprung from. From about age 11, I knew I wanted to be within the music industry somehow and over the years I just gravitated more towards singing as that’s what I enjoy. The first song I ever recorded was in year 9 and it was with my friend from school. We wrote and produced the whole thing and then we released it on Soundcloud.
Where do you get your inspiration from for your lyrics?
When writing music I just write depending on how I feel. To me, my music is like a diary of my thoughts and feelings but explained in an enjoyable way.
How has the pandemic affected your music?
The pandemic hasn’t really affected my music as such, but more the opportunities. For example, there has been no shows/gigs. However, I believe creatives have been doing very well to facilitate other creatives. I think this is great as the first lockdown was really hard for some people and I think just seeing other creatives finding new ways to continue what they love doing is really inspiring.
Your last single Rise Up’s theme referenced the BLM movement, can you tell us a little bit more about the single?
When I wrote Rise Up, it was in the midst of the George Floyd situation who was a victim of police brutality. At this point, I felt like I wanted to give my views, my knowledge and most importantly my support to my community. I chose to do this in the form of a song because this is the best way that I know how to get my point across. The reaction I wanted was, when people heard it, they could take something away with them.
Your recent single ‘Sometimes’, is a really uplifting track, where did you get the inspiration for the lyrics from?
I wrote Sometimes towards the end of the first lockdown and it was kind of just me, trying to be positive about the whole situation. The first lockdown took a toll of a lot of people’s mental health and I just wanted to put something out that would uplift spirits and be motivating. Hopefully, I achieved that.
What musicians are on your current Spotify playlist?
I have quite a broad spectrum of artists but at the moment I’m listening to Tink’s new album.
Who is your favourite artist?
I wouldn’t say that I have a favourite as I take different things from different artists but my musical inspirations are Jhene Aiko, Beyoncé, H.E.R, Kehlani, Bryson Tiller, Ella Mai and many many more. I could go on for days.
Other than music what are your other passions?
Recently I have been exploring other avenues and I have been trying to learn how to DJ, as you know I love music and I think DJing is a great skill to have.
Who would you like to do a collab with?
I am down to collaborate with all creatives (within reason of course) but I think my dream collab would have to be Beyoncé.
Who is your role model?
I have quite a few musical idols but I would have to say I really admire Chris Brown’s work ethic, and one day I wish to be as consistent as him.
What is your biggest dream?
My biggest dream is to have a sold-out show. It doesn’t matter how big/small the venue is, just as long as every single ticket is sold. That would be amazing.
14. Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?
In 5 years time, I wish to have a catalogue of music out and to have had a couple of nominations and potentially awards. In 5 years time, I hope a lot has changed. I hope I have progressed not only as a musician but also as a person.
You can listen to Tianna’s latest track ‘Sometimes’ HERE or follow Tianna on YouTube.
Keep up to date with Tianna Thompson on Instagram @tiannaofficial
Crew Credits:
Photography: Ian Boddy
Styling: Becky Seager
If you liked thisYou may also like our We Are Gen Z series, featuring inspiring youth. Click HERE to view.
Tianna Thompson Photography by Ian Boddy – All rights reserved.
All posts copyright Tangereene Magazine.
Please do not reproduce without permission.