Amanda Ayla- Forming My Sound (Rising Artist)

Edition Sixteen-Week Sixteen:

Written by: Mercedes Barreto // Photography by: Joe Mack’s Event Photography

Is participating in TV competitions considered a peculiar experience for musicians and talents alike? What is life actually like on and off the TV set for those talents? Amanda Ayla is a talent with raw and incredible singing and music skill, on and off the production set. We read of her latest advancements in this guided, yet informative article on talent.

What is the earliest moment you can recall of your beginning in music? What is something or someone who has shaped or inspired you?

“I grew up in a household where all genres of music were played. Whether it was rock, pop, disco, or Latin, as long as the music made me feel some emotion, it stuck with me. I remember sitting in my kitchen as a little girl, and Faithfully by Journey was cranked. My feet dangled on the countertop, and there was something about that song that made me feel an indescribable way. Not knowing what the lyrics meant, the melodies, harmonies, and sound took me away and have made an impression on me ever since. Having such an eclectic background in all genres at an early age played a significant role in forming my sound.”

Where do you go to get creative, and what is that space like? Do you prefer quiet, peaceful solitude or a room full of co-creatives? What describes your perfect creative space?

“My ideal place to get creative is inside my home studio, away from the world. I have written just about every one of my songs inside it and honed in on a routine for creating and writing. I am all about ambiance and like making my space as aesthetically pleasing as possible. To set the scene of a writing session, I like to have a good-smelling candle lit, lights dim, instruments by my side, and my dog behind me on the studio couch. Having the proper setup and space makes my workflow much smoother and allows my creative juices to flow naturally.”

What is a song that you know has most resonated with your audience, regardless of your many performances?

“A song that always resonates with my audience is my single titled “Lost You.” I wrote the song in 2015 and began performing it live a few months later. From its organic form with only my voice and an acoustic guitar to a full band arrangement and now its 2019 pop debut, the song still pulls at the audience’s heartstrings. Knowing that the song’s sound had changed quite often from when it was written, and people still have similar feelings and reactions towards it is a great feeling.”

Where is the most important or best venue you have played, if you could only pick one?

“I have been grateful to have performed on such iconic stages/venues throughout my career. From B.B. Kings, Ridgefield Playhouse, The Palace Theatre, The Cowan, Daryl’s House, etc., With every venue comes a different memory that I cherish deeply. I love to perform and each show differently, so choosing just one in all these years is impossible for me!”

What does music mean to you, and has that significance ever changed? Or has it always remained consistent?

“The significance of music and what it means to me has changed over my career. I wanted to be a musician because I love to sing and enjoy singing other people’s music. But, as I’ve gotten older, I realized it isn’t just about singing and my voice, but so much more. Music can be used to send a message, mend broken hearts, and even break some. The most significant change for me was that I wasn’t just singing anymore but writing my own songs, letting people hear what I had to say. This allows everyone to glimpse inside my diary with the songs I have been putting out.”

Where can we find out more about your music, and mostly, why should we? What makes Amanda Ayla our favorite superstar, musician, and artist?

“My music is available on all streaming platforms, such as Spotify, iTunes, Apple Music, Amazon Music, etc., or on my website amandaayala.com.

While there are so many incredible artists out there making amazing music, something that could make me a favorite of yours is that it isn’t a fan base. I have a community of friendship and family. I make music that I am passionate about, which will help listeners with whatever they want to escape from in the moments they put in their earbuds.”

Anything to add here?

“New music is set for 2023, so keep your eyes and ears peeled for it!”

Questions For The Photographer:

Did you know what the photo shoot would be like with Amanda, and what was the outcome? Are you more than satisfied?

“I only knew a little about Amanda or the style of music she did. I knew she was on TV in singing competitions, so I thought she would be doing middle-of-the-road type songs. BOY, WAS I WRONG? This girl can sing straight-up rock, has a fabulous stage presence, and her choice of songs was very diversified. I was and am very satisfied with the photos and the video.”

What describes your favorite shot in the session? Why and how is this so?

“Amanda is expressive when she sings, with lots of body movement and facial expressions. She even plays guitar on some songs, a photo of her playing guitar may be one of my favorites, but there is also one that shows her belting out a tune.”