Unsigned Spotlight: Floyd
Floyd is a singer, songwriter and author from the Bay Area. With roots from Olympia, Washington, and influences ranging from country to grunge, her indie pop style brings raw emotion, honest lyrics and appreciable energy.
Please list all of your band members and their roles in the band.
I am a solo artist named Floyd; I am a singer and songwriter.
For starters, what bands were you part of prior to Floyd? How long has the band been around?
I have been in numerous projects over the years; grunge rock to folk rock and even tried country. I love all genres of music, but Floyd is project number 7, which I just started about a year ago.
What’s the origin of that name and have you changed the band’s name before?
The name Floyd is a family name. It reminds me to live with courage, and to understand that life is short and to go for whatever it is you want. It reminds me to live now and live with conviction. Since this is a new project, I have not had any name changes.
Who writes your songs? What are the main themes or topics for most of your songs and do you think these topics will change over time?
I write all of my songs, music and words. I write about all topics but am selective as to which ones I release. More and more I’m wanting to put out material that is positive and uplifting; I have found that it’s actually much harder to write a positive song than it is a negative one. Not to say that songs with angst and frustration aren’t important too, it just feels like there’s a lot of them out there.
What bands are currently inspiring the music that you’re making?
I love The 1975, Post Malone and a lot of what Cage The Elephant has put out. Vintage U2, and Tori Amos also give me a lot of inspiration. I also love indie songwriters like Birdy and Ron Pope.
Was there a particular band/artist or concert that inspired you to start a band?
I’ve been writing songs and playing instruments since I was 12. But Sonic Youth’s record “Goo,” and U2’s “Achtung Baby” really inspired me to get out and start playing, which led to my first band, Karaoke World Tour.
What do you do to prepare for a show? Any flexing, exercises, etc …
I try and make sure I’ve gone for a run day of show; I think it’s important to get out any nervous energy. Then I make sure I’ve had enough water and give myself plenty of time to be wherever it is I need to be. I want to be as relaxed as possible to allow for my energy and my soul to come through in the performance. Anxiety can really impact your flow.
What has been the biggest highlight of the band’s career so far?
I’m a new project, so the best is yet to come! But, I did get the chance to meet with an iconic producer who listened to some early versions of my songs, which he really liked and encouraged me to keep going, which meant a lot given his success in the industry. Also, working with my producers, who are so incredibly talented and brought their experience of working with all types of super successful artists to my project has been wonderful.
If you could tour with any bands, past or present, who would they be and why?
U2 hands down. I love everything that band stands for. Human rights, equality, the grit to keep going. Plus, I just love Bono.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Music has been one of my greatest teachers. I love creating and writing, and I also love being a fan. There’s so much that we learn about ourselves and others through the medium of music. I love feeling like I can be a small part of that. It’s been a real gift.
http://www.facebook.com/flydmusic
http://www.instagram.com/floyd_and_company
https://open.spotify.com/artist/7IuUi6kPzORi8QfpMmur7e?si=Hs4UdPvvRJaEruSimPll7g