SARIKA Visits Section 36 Music!

Section 36 Music has another visitor! SARIKA is a fantastic singer fresh off the release of her single, "Nightrunner". I was thrilled that she was willing to visit with us to discuss her music, future goals, and more. I’m sure you’ll enjoy everything she has to say.

So, let's see what happens when SARIKA visits Section 36 Music!

I really enjoyed your recent single, “Nightrunner”. What can you tell me about it?

Thanks so much, I’m so glad you liked it! “Nightrunner” is about one of those on-again, off-again relationships that’s not really good for either person, but you just keep coming back to it because of the familiarity of being with that person. I wanted to approach that situation in a playful, self aware way where you’re kind of like “shit not this again…oh what the hell.” I wrote it in 2020 and it was the first song I wrote in college after a bit of a hiatus, so I felt like it marked a new era for me as a writer because it was more mature and sophisticated than my songs from high school. I finally got around to recording it with a local producer this fall and here we are! It’s also my first release in six months and a new genre for me which is exciting.

You’re a frequent live performer. What is your favorite part about performing on stage?

I’m definitely still working on my performance skills and crowd work, but my favorite part so far has been learning and anticipating how people will react to things you’ve been working on privately for months. I’m not sure if the way I explained that makes any sense but for example when you’re performing for a new crowd there’s lyrics people always react to, lines they usually cheer at, and stage banter they usually laugh at. It’s fun to mix things up every show by trying some new stuff out and also throwing in stuff you know works. I’ve also been trying to incorporate some fun unexpected bits during my sets just so each show is unique—for example at my most recent show I wrote my own outro to Nonsense by Sabrina Carpenter and changed into a pair of Sabrina-esque white platform boots just for that song, and back in November my band and I took a long pause in the middle of a song and I took a shot of vodka on stage. It’s also just fun to perform for people who know your songs well and watching them sing and dance along, that feeling is unmatched!

When did you know music was going to be your “thing”?

I’ve always known to an extent, but it’s been a long journey of not knowing if I was good enough or if it was ‘practical’ enough. I’ve been into music since I was a kid–I grew up playing piano and making up little songs in my head, then started songwriting more formally throughout middle school and high school, and I’ve been singing on and off since around that age. But I’ve gone back and forth a lot about whether to really go for it as a career. Even though I kind of knew I wanted to by the time I finished high school, I went to a regular 4 year university and majored in economics and psychology. (I’m glad I did–I had a great time in college and don’t think I would’ve enjoyed studying music or that I was ready to be releasing music four years ago.) I didn’t really do much music in college and didn’t start pursuing it seriously until about six months ago. But over time it became pretty clear that there’s no other career that feels as right for me.

Who or what would you consider your biggest musical influences?

My music is all quite different so I find myself drawing from a range of influences, but some significant inspirations for my past few releases are Sara Bareilles, Olivia Rodrigo, Phoebe Bridgers, Taylor Swift, and Charli XCX! And Post Malone. (That one comes as more of a surprise to people, but listen to my song “Speedboats” and then his song “Stay” if you don’t believe me. As for Charli, most of the music I have out is not like hers at all but the end of my song “California King” was heavily inspired by her production-wise!)

What would you say is your biggest challenge with your music career?

Definitely perfectionism, anxiety, and self doubt, which are unfortunately common among artists and significant in other aspects of my life. I always tend to second guess myself and put too much weight on other people’s opinions, even though other people often have conflicting opinions and you can never please everybody. Trusting my own judgment and allowing myself to be imperfect, while acknowledging my weaknesses and committing to improving them, is definitely one of my biggest challenges. Part of this has been getting over the fear of being ‘seen’ on social media–I’ve always been a big social media user personally, but using it to promote music is a whole different ball game. Another big challenge for me is consistency in my vocal performance, and generally being an untrained vocalist trying to do my original songs justice. I think I’ve made pretty significant improvements, but I'm still trying to get as much practice performing as possible and test out what my voice can do. 

What are your immediate music goals?

Great question! I have a lot of new goals especially with the new year being so fresh. My biggest one is probably to open for some more established local or touring acts in Boston so I can get experience playing larger venues and continue to grow my audience. I also want to make a music video–haven’t done that yet! And these are a little more lofty, but I’d love for one of my songs to be included in an editorial playlist on Spotify or Apple Music, or to be placed in a movie or TV show. 

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Those are great goals. Hopefully she reaches many of them!  

As always, I want to thank SARIKA for visiting with us, and for sending along the pictures to accompany the interview.

I'm sure you’ll all want to follow her and see what she has going on. I would follow her on Instagram  and Spotify to make sure you don't miss a thing. You should also visit her website. It's a great way to keep track of everything she has going on.

Thanks again SARIKA, and good luck reaching your goals!

New Music from: Effy Marella, Laney Lebo, Ira Sharma, and Jamiliee

 

"Shoes" - single by Effy Marella 

Release Date: January 19, 2024

What You Should Know: This song is wonderfully written from the perspective of standing in your ex's shoes.

Find It: Apple or Spotify

Her Spotify Playlist Inclusions: "What 2024 Sounds Like From Section 36", "Women Going Places, from Section 36"

Previously on Section 36: "Effy Marella Visits Section 36 Music!"

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"Ground Zero" - single by laney lebo 

Release Date: January 19, 2024

What You Should Know: This song has been a long time coming, but is definitely worth the wait.

Find It: Spotify or Apple

Her Spotify Playlist Inclusions: "What 2024 Sounds Like From Section 36", "Women Going Places, from Section 36"

Previous Noteworthy Releases: "Burning Bridges"

Previously on Section 36: "Laney Lebo Visits Section 36 Music!"

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"I Knew" - single by Ira Sharma 

Release Date: January 12, 2024

What You Should Know: "I co-wrote this song about how I felt at the time… knowing deep down that it won’t work with someone but still giving that person a shot and getting in a relationship until I reached a point when, of course, “I knew” all along that it won’t work.

But don’t worry the song isn’t half as sad as it sounds."

Find It: Spotify or Apple

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"Houdini" - Single by Jamiliee 

Release Date: January 18, 2024

What You Should Know: You really need to listen to this song, and all of Jamiliee's music, as soon as you can.

Find It: Spotify or Apple

"505" by Kelsey Blackstone

 "505" - single by Kelsey Blackstone 

Release Date: January 12, 2024

What You Should Know: "A soulful reinvention of a sleaze rock classic, this innovative cover proves Kelsey can be as charismatic, emotional, and gritty as any vocalist in the genre. Though it’s laden with 2010’s nostalgia, the furious energy and punchy horns of Kelsey’s band give it a thrillingly modern feel.‘505’ has been a fixture in Kelsey's setlist, and with good reason. It’s the rare cover that breathes new life into the song, transforming it into something truly revelatory. ‘505’ is the latest in a series of projects that have put Kelsey on the path to stardom. It is sure to be a hit with her ever- expanding fanbase."

As expected, this cover of "505" is a masterpiece. It is a mystical experience that draws you in and forces you to listen to more. Kelsey lists Olivia Rodrigo as an inspiring artist, and you can definitely get that feeling when listen to this song. The gentle introduction allows Kelsey's powerful vocals to carry you through to the end. You need to experience this song for yourself.

Find It: Spotify or Apple

Her Spotify Playlist Inclusions: "What 2024 Sounds Like From Section 36", "Women Going Places, from Section 36"

Previously on Section 36: "Kelsey Blackstone Visits Section 36 Music!", "Tour Tips from Kelsey Blackstone"

Getting to Know Treble Threat from the Rookies

Treble Threat is Berklee College of Music's only all-women and non-binary a cappella group, providing an immersive and empowering musical experience within an a cappella environment. 

What makes these amazing performers decide to try out for such a group? I asked the new members of the group to try to find out. It looks like a couple reasons came to the forefront. 

For new member Kailyn, it was a love of a cappella. As she said, "I loved the idea of A Cappella since I was 10, when I watched Pitch Perfect for the first time, so when I got into Berklee, I knew I would have the opportunity to join one. Then, once I finally got to Berklee, I went to the club fair. The first thing I did was head towards the a cappella groups. But the only one that caught my eye was Treble Threat. I talked to the members for a while but instantly knew they were the only group I was going to audition for. And now, here I am."

Others were draw to the sense of community, like Ella who said, "I was really drawn to the welcoming community of Treble Threat. I was at the club fair and when I met them I knew that I would be joining a supportive and non-judgmental environment. Also they sing so beautifully!"

Sophia had similar thoughts when she said, "I decided to try out for Treble Threat because I wanted to meet new people and be a part of a community at Berklee. I thought an all-female and non-binary a cappella group would be a great space to make music with cool people! Additionally, I watched Pitch Perfect and had to try it out for myself. Excited to be a part of the group!"

Clearly, Pitch Perfect also had quite an effect on people.

But, now that they were members, what part of Treble Threat were they looking forward to? What where their goals?

For Sophia, she was "looking forward to being a part of the a cappella community in and outside of Berklee. I would love to meet other a cappella members and attend various events, performances, or competitions." 

Ella was excited about the performances. "We already sound so great and I can’t wait for everyone to hear! Our songs also all have great messages, and I think people who listen will

enjoy them."

Kailyn put it all in one package since she was "so excited to get to know the group members better. They are all such beautiful people, and everyone has fun yet different personalities that I can not wait to see more of throughout the year. But something a cappella related that I am looking forward to is getting to perform at the ICCA’s. I mean, if you are a Pitch Perfect fan, you know where my excitement is coming from. And I cannot wait to sing with all of these talented people."

Whatever the reason, you can sense that every member is glad they signed up for the experience!

I can't recommend enough that you check out this amazing group. Follow them on their socials: Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube. And if you get the chance to see them perform in person, don't miss out. It's an experience you need to take in for yourself.

Thanks to all the rookie members of Treble Threat who shared their thoughts with us. 

Stay tuned as we'll hear from more members of this amazing group in the coming days.

Gracie Modean Visits Section 36 Music!

Section 36 Music has another visitor! Gracie Modean is an incredible singer with a long performance history. I was thrilled that she wanted to visit with us and discuss her music, future goals, and more. I’m sure you’ll enjoy everything she has to say.

So, let's see what happens when Gracie Modean visits Section 36 Music!

I absolutely love the music you’ve posted on social media. Do you see any studio work in your future?

Thank you so much! I have been working recently in various studios recording a single that is very special to me. My girlfriend and I got hired to write some music for a short film and decided to re-recorded our favorite original from the film. I hope to release it soon possibly next month ! I have big plans to release other music as well. I love working in the studio with my wonderful team and am excited to start releasing my original music. 

You had the opportunity to perform the National Anthem before a Rancho Cucamonga Quakes Game. What was that experience like?

I absolutely love singing for the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes! They are always so kind and welcoming. Once I arrive, they set up their cameras and we do a mic test before I sing. It’s all super simple! After my Mic test I wait for the players to finish practicing and then I go down on the field to sing. After, I get to enjoy the game! It’s always so fun and such an honor to be asked to sing.

You are currently attending Berklee College of Music. Why was Berklee the right fit for you?

Berklee is the right fit for me because Berklee allows me to explore all of my passions. I can study all types of vocal performance while taking songwriting classes and perform Pop, Jazz, Or Gospel in my ensemble! Berklee also has an amazing pool of people to collaborate and connect with. I am very grateful for the opportunities Berklee gives me and will hopefully continue to give me in the future. 

You’ve been able to perform with some wonderful fellow artists. Do any of these opportunities stand out in your mind?

One of my favorite moments was performing in a show with Jordan Fisher and Idina Menzel! They both have some of the most incredible live vocals I have ever heard. I was lucky enough to have a small solo in the same song as Jordan and will remember that moment forever. My favorite moment was talking with Megan Hilty during the rehearsals on stage. She was so down to earth and inspiring. That was definitely one of my favorite shows. 

What would you say is your biggest challenge with your music career?

One of my biggest challenges in my music career would be the rejection I have faced growing up. I am so grateful for how it has shaped me and pushed me to grow. One moment of rejection I remember is working extremely hard to re-audition for an exclusive group that I was rejected from a year prior. I was incredibly embarrassed when my friends got in and I did not. I put in lots of work that year improving and learning how to properly prepare myself for auditions. My hard work and determination paid off when I got in and got a big solo. 

What are your immediate music goals?

My current goals are to keep writing and sharing my music. I am working towards releasing an EP once I’ve released my debut single. In the future, I hope to get my Masters after Berklee and enter the music industry as a professional. I also have a passion for interior design and hope to get a masters in interior design as well. 

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Those are great goals. I know I'm excited for that single!  

As always, I want to thank Gracie for visiting with us, and for sending along the pictures to accompany the interview.

I'm sure you’ll all want to follow her and see what she has going on. I would follow her on Instagram to make sure you don't miss a thing. 

Thanks again Gracie, and good luck reaching your goals!

NEW MUSIC: From Cassandra, Sabrina Ponte, and Nicky Doma

"Queen of Every Night" - single by Cassandra 

Release Date: January 5, 2024

What You Should Know: "I’ve been wondering for YEARS how to blend opera and pop and keep it mainstream. We’ve seen trapera, spoof popera, classical pop, and many many opera singers singing pop songs in a classical vocal style. I wanted to do something that sounded like it belonged on pop radio that also showcased the classical arts in a clear way. Basically, I wanted to create a new genre. This was for two main goals: 1. Share my two musical genre passions with all of you and 2. Pique interest in the classical arts for listeners. The opera and classical industries need us more than ever right now as audiences are shrinking and this is my way of sprinkling a bit of opera influence into the mainstream market. So excited for this to release and hear what you all think"

Find It: Apple or Spotify

Her Spotify Playlist Inclusions: "What 2024 Sounds Like From Section 36", "Women Going Places, from Section 36"

Previous Noteworthy Releases: "Love You Back", "Business Casual", "Next Christmas", "Highlight the Real", "Free Woman"

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"January" - single by Sabrina Ponte 

Release Date: January 1, 2024

What You Should Know: As a fan of all of Sabrina's previous work, I could not be more excited about this song. It's one you won't want to miss.

Find It: Spotify or Apple

Her Spotify Playlist Inclusions: "What 2024 Sounds Like From Section 36", "Women Going Places, from Section 36"

Previous Noteworthy Releases: "Gaslight", "The Good Guy", "Rodeo Heart", "Head Over Heels", "Chance of Whiskey", "Black Roses", "U-Turn"

Previously on Section 36: "Sabrina Ponte Visits Section 36 Music!"

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"Piece of Me" - EP by Nicky Doma 

Release Date: December 28, 2023

What You Should Know: You really need to listen to all of these songs as soon as you can.

Find It: Spotify or Apple

Her Spotify Playlist Inclusions: "What 2023 Sounds Like From Section 36", "Women Going Places, from Section 36"

Previously on Section 36: "Nicky Doma Visits Section 36 Music!"