What’s your artist name, and how long have you been singing? 

My name is I The Victor and I’ve been singing and writing music since I was quite a bit younger. I started doing it under the name I The Victor a little under 2 years ago.

What’s the origin of that name, is it your real name? 

My real name is actually not I The Victor haha, it is Rebecca Ramos. The origin of the project name is essentially a reminder; I needed to write about real things that can be heavy and uncomfortable and sometimes hard to grapple with…that’s what I’ve needed music for since I can remember. So I wanted to put it out under this banner of strength and remember to see and discuss these things through a lens of hope and boldness, not as a defeatist ever but rather as a winner, if you will.

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 definitely believe these topics will progress as I progress. They’re pretty stream of consciousness so I write exactly how I feel and as I learn and grow, the message and lyrics will reflect that too. I enjoy writing about purpose, fear— be it conquering fear or struggling with it, and ultimately joy in a way as this end result of coming to terms with big questions and accepting yourself and growing.

What acts are currently inspiring the music that you’re making?

I couldn’t pin it down to a few specific artists if I tried, but right now I’m really loving bold production and electronics or just generally awesomely produced music. That sounds weird but that’s exactly what I’ve been loving lately. Artists like Lido or Cashmere where they have these percussive, rhythmic, symphonic and very carefully crafted productions in each song— I can’t get enough of music like that. Outside of that, I’ve been really loving Andrew Bird, Chance the Rapper, Leagues and a range of other random things. I’m sure little characteristics of those different styles will stick with me as I start recording my new songs.

Was there a particular band/artist or concert that inspired you to start making music? 

I like to give this one up to Avril. When I was very young she inspired me a lot to at least be intrigued and pick up an instrument or sing something. She was just too cool, so I started learning and basically tried to be like her. Now here we are.

What do you do to prepare for a show? Any flexing, exercises, etc …

All of the things. Or contrarily, sometimes, you might find me just pondering and doing what may appear to be more like none of the things. You really can’t be too sure.

What has been the biggest highlight of your artistic career so far?

Playing my first headliner was a blast and my EP charted on iTunes which was pretty surreal. The real highlights are all in the people I have met and the connections you get to make along the way with so many kind human beings, though. If I can put on a good show or write a song that holds meaning and someone connects to it— that is my constant highlight.

If you could tour with any bands, past or present, who would they be and why?

I’ve always admired Awolnation and Bastille; I feel like that’d be a blast and an interesting match as far as genre. A band like Twenty One Pilots would be a huge dream too.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Thank you for letting me spend some time talking about my music. I know there are thousands of other bands out there, so I don’t take it for granted and really appreciate it when I am able to talk about the love of my life with a blog or site and just spread the word a bit. Also, if you’ve never heard of ITV, thanks for reading and hopefully something of this strikes you as worth a listen. Also also, if you have heard of ITV, stay posi & I love you. So much is coming this summer, so stick with me.