I was able to sit down with local music artist ‘victoria said‘ and discuss her solo project, her inspirations, and her upcoming releases. Victoria works as staff with my peers in Autisticana and we all are excited about her music and performances.
Scott: How did you become a singer and songwriter?
Victoria: I’ve been singing ever since I can remember. My parents got me a karaoke machine and I was always singing for my family in the living room. From Taylor Swift, Camp rock, high school musical, early 2000s hits, my house heard it all! I’ve taken guitar, vocal, and piano lessons for years. My twin sister Sasha has always been musical as well, she plays piano and sings. When we were like 12 we came together and did a duet for the first time. Our first cover was “Payphone” by Maroon 5. We posted it to YouTube and it became our thing to play covers and sing together. I also posted my own singing videos as well. I think I began songwriting as early as 12/13. They may have been a little cheesy but it brought me to where I am today.
Who are your inspirations?
Literally everyone. From people that I’ve grown up watching and listening to from Disney Channel like Miley Cyrus, Demi Lovato, to indie artists across multiple genres that come up on my Spotify, to local artists that gig and do shows around Long Island like me! My dad is into a lot of older music that he has introduced me to as well within the rock and folk genres. I absolutely love going to concerts too! That always inspires me. It makes me go home and write even more.
What inspires you to songwrite?
I’m inspired by my experiences and my relationships. The good and the bad are all part of life and I like to write beautiful songs that people can relate to.
What does your artist name called ‘victoria said’ mean?
‘victoria said’ is about speaking through my songwriting. I have people asking me “Victoria said what?” All I say is to listen to my music, that’s what I’m trying to say!
Tell me about your Music that you have already released.
I have 2 singles are out currently. In Feb (2023) I released “Through (thank you),” which is a friend breakup song and the first single of my solo project. “hope you don’t sleep good tonight” was my second single and it was released this past April. This one has a striking title but it’s really talking about the intense emotions during a healing process, and that it’s okay to feel angry. “Lovely” is my newest single set to release on August 18. It is so catchy, fun, summery, and the perfect song for feeling nervous and falling in love.
Are there any other new songs or projects in the near future?
I just filmed a music video with my friends and a videographer, Liam, from Brooklyn for “Lovely” and it’s set to release in September! It was such a long day but so cool. I’ve never done a professional music video like that before! It was amazing planning and putting the vision together. All the songs that I’ve been working on since last fall will be part of EP coming very soon. I’ve been workin with Sarah Gross on Long Island- She’s been producing and mixing for me and it’s been an amazing experience.