Electric Harpist TATYANA On Her Debut EP
Get to know electric harpist TATYANA who is debuting her EP “Shadow On The Wall” on the 17th of July. This classically trained yet underground rave-inspired artist blends yin/yang, harsh/soft, and angelic/devilish vibes with electronic waves of music that are sure to induce goosebumps. She will lead you via pop vocals into a world of music all her own.
Everyone says they want something different to listen to and TATYANA delivers. When describing her own music she relates it to the color blue as well as the sense of peace and melancholy it brings. This cigarette smoking angel has designed her own haven to run away into when the world is too harsh for her liking and is inviting you to join her.
While shooting on FaceTime I discovered her to be truly a radiant and kind soul with Sophos quotes hanging from a tree in her English garden. We also shot in the corner of her studio where this powerhouse woman does her own production on top of everything else - helping to bring women into the picture when it comes to music production in pop. Let yourself fall into something new with TATYANA and discover our full shoot and interview below.
What does authenticity mean to you as an artist?
It’s an interesting question because I don’t think authenticity as an artist needs to mean that you bring all of your personal life, quirks, and thoughts to the table. I definitely try and think of TATYANA as more than just myself in order to leave scope for bigger dreams and projects. I think authenticity as an artist comes down to taste. Taste meaning the choices you make artistically, and professionally.
How does it feel to be releasing your EP in general but also during such intense times in the world?
It feels bittersweet. I really miss performing. I perform solo so it’s a mixture of lots of tech and gear, but also dancing and vibing. I think the EP makes a lot of sense when you see me play live. I’m sad that I won’t get to play those songs out now that they’re finally released, and knowing that people can go and listen to them before or after the show.
What does your creative process look like?
It’s very ritualistic, magical, and led by feeling. I like to keep the beginning of the process opaque and shrouded in mystery. After I know there’s something there, it becomes much more technical and nerdy.
What do you hope people take from the EP?
I hope they are seized by the magic.
You do your own production - what are your thoughts around that?
Once I've started an idea, I know exactly what I want most of the time, and really enjoy problem-solving. Production to me is two-pronged - knowing what you want, and figuring out how to bring that into reality. I’m learning to leave more space for other interpretations though, sometimes it’s good to join forces.
Music production is notoriously a male-dominated space - how does it feel to be in charge of your own?
It’s quite powerful being able to speak the language of audio production. It gives you a framework to articulate your ideas. It can be intimidating at first because it’s so intelligibly technical but I love knowing that I can walk into a room of seasoned producers and hold my own.
Why did you decide to play the harp?
Because I’m an angel! 👼
You find inspiration in the underground rave scene - can you expand on that?
Coming into that world after music school undid a lot of the unhealthy thinking I had developed on how to create music. It showed me the power of community, of dance, and not giving a f*ck what other people think.
What does vulnerability as an artist mean to you?
Not being afraid to follow your own path.
Talent: TATYANA @Bluehairharpgirl
Photo: Weslee Kate @wesleekatecreative
