KRISTIN VENAE
Q: Kristin, your song “Still Here” is very powerful. Can you tell us what inspired the lyrical contents of it?
A: when it came to writing the album I was thinking about the lyrical themes of songs written about love. How the themes are usually about falling in love, about unrequited love, the loss of love, lust or the sadness of pinning for someone. I wanted to write a beautiful song that’s an ode to the mundane, to put a spotlight on just how special it is to get past the butterflies infatuation stage and have someone who loves you at your best and your worst and the comfort there is in never feeling alone or at least having someone there to hold your hand through life’s trials.
Q: The song talks a lot about eternal love. What does the concept of love forever and always mean to you?
A:I think when looking for a mate in life the bond created has to be one like that of your own family ties. By that I mean you have the ability to forgive and to want to work on the relationship like how you are with siblings you squabble and you move on. if it’s only based on how you feel in the good times then the odds of it lasting are slim. So love to me is understanding that your partner has different experiences to you and it’s something you can work on and build together and as long as you know you can’t imagine your life without that person than it will last forever.
Q: You have mentioned once that your music was placed on hold for a while. How did taking some time off the spotlight affect your creative process?
A: It was tough but I think anything in life that is a struggle is a lesson and teaches you a lot about yourself. It gave me the time to reflect and work on what was most important which is my family and then time time to form which direction I wanted for my career
Q: On your song “Still Here,” you speak to living in the moment. How important is it for you to live in the moment, especially given your personal journey?
A: Man living is something we can take for granted. Now my motto is why put off for tomorrow what you can do today. Also to just try even if you fail just try again and keep trying.
Q: The song is one of immense support in relationships. Having been through support both in love and in your cancer battle, how has that influenced these lyrics?
A: I feel when I wrote the song that I wanted it to be universally poignant. To write lyrics That there was something in it that people would relate to and it doesn’t have to be a romantic relationship lyrically it could remind someone of a parent, a friend even the relationship to having trust in God being there for you.
Q: It seems like “Still Here” is both a personal gift to yourself and your fans. How do you hope this song impacts its listeners, especially those facing their own struggles?
A: I hope it up lifts people and reminds them to cherish the people in their life that stick by them, those that walk along side them, day to day, year to year
Q: There’s this underlying theme of resilience throughout your discography. How do you keep resilient through tough times, and how does music help you in that process?
A:It’s so tough and it’s hard not to get in the ‘why me’? headspace. I’m someone who believes everything happens for a reason so I have faith that when I see the reason I’m comforted in that. I think music is a great comfort in all situations. When you’re a creative person that outlet is like breathing it’s a necessity and it always gets me through tough times.
Q: The song has a universal message of love and support. What message do you want listeners to take away from “Still Here”?
A: If you love love fiercely love tenderly love with all of you heart and soul there’s no shame in giving your heart and being yourself the right person will embrace it all and give you the same in return.
Q: You’ve spoken about working on your debut album entitled “Black Widow.” How does “Still Here” tie in with the overall themes of that album?
A: ‘Still Here’ ‘Lullaby’ ’ Flutter’ are the pop soul Latin infused guitar driven tracks and the rest of the singles ‘Break the Chain’ ‘Black Widow and ‘I am Woman’ are pop rock tracks, I really think the album is quite diverse but is still all under the pop umbrella.
Q: Love, in the expression of “Still Here,” seems not to be some thing that would ever fade even with difficulties. How do you think love can persevere through adversity?
A: I think you have to work at it, and on yourself and on being the best for each other . That’s in any relationship each person has to be willing to work things out when problems arise and not run away or be too egotistical about things.
Q: In a world where people often take things for granted, how do you try to hold on to deeper connections and moments that matter most?
A: I’m the kind of person who is honest and I’m upfront , it can be a good thing and it can be a bad thing but for me it’s how I’m authentically me, take me or leave me but I will always be honest. But for me it’s just simple be kind and you’ll form solid lasting connections.
Q: “We’re together, and that it is forever” does feel like a promise. Is this a type of commitment you value most when it comes to relationships?
A: I love people deeply , I forgive openly, I’m here, I’m present, I’m invested, I’m solid, but I don’t put up with disrespect and I will stand up for myself and you’re free to walk away. But for those who stay you have a true ride or die friend or partner in me and I will love you forever.
Q: Do you think music has any actual healing effect on other people, in particular when they’re going through hard times like what you’ve gone through?
A: absolutely, music is the best of comfort and it’s a truely personal experience ask anyone and they will tell you a story that is so specificity tied to music.
Q: You’ve called your new album a mix of soul, pop, and rock. How do you feel “Still Here” reflects the musical growth we are going to get from your album?
A:It’s the sweet after the salty and the sour and you’ll have to listen to all the tracks to get this reference
Q: It seems like a sense of unity and support for one another is apparent throughout the song. How do you hope to inspire cancer survivors with your music and message?
A: I hope from the song and the documentary that fellow cancer survivors and especially those starting treatment will see that as horrible as the situation is, that there is light at the end of the tunnel and you will get through it and that life will be beautiful again.
Q: What do you think songs like “Still Here” do for creating a sense of community for those who may otherwise feel alone during tough times?
A: I wish that it brings the listener comfort I hope it can bring a temporary escape if needed, I hope they sing at the top of their lungs and dream.
Q: What would you say to someone who feels like they’ve lost hope in love or in life’s journey?
A: I’d say All in good time, but until you meet your forever love in another person, first love yourself, be good to yourself because that who you are day after day, year after year, so be kind with you internal words.
Q: Finally, if you could summarize in a few words what “Still Here” means to you, what would you say?
A: It’s a reminder that with my family and good friends that I’m never alone but that I also need to be that person for the others in my life and to remind them how much I love and appreciate them
