Amanda Grace | Creativity in writing songs through life experiences

Amanda Grace, a singer songwriter putting her emotions, life experiences into her music. Listening to her music you can feel the joy, the pain and everything in between, which makes her music very recognizable for a lot of people.

Where did it all start for you, the passion to give into music?

I remember at a very early age being drawn to the piano and writing music as soon as I could figure out basic chords. My mom always played by ear and so I followed in her footsteps and didn’t study theory, etc until college years.

Do you still remember the very first record (LP, Vinyl, cassette, cd … ) you ever bought?

I don’t, ha! I think that’s because I was primarily obsessed with horses and being outside as a kid. I do remember buying as many Mariah Carey CDs as I could and practicing my voice by singing with her (when I could reach the notes, ha). I loved the Cranberries too and later turned into writing more alt rock sounding songs.

“Rainbow skies” is about a very personal experience of a loss in the family. Was it your way of dealing with the sorrow? 

That song just dropped in on me. I hardly remember writing it; it happened so fast. It was just his song. I think for a long time I felt that I should have been a better aunt to Bryce, and been more involved, but I had a new baby myself and was trying to just get through each day as it was. I remember knowing though, that “Rainbow Skies” was special and could impact others as they journey with children/family through illness. 

Your second album also embraces ( 😉 ) a lot of personal situations in your own surroundings. Where some people try to avoid getting personal, you seem to get strength out of your music in hard times. How do you cope with the personal touch when you sing it?

It isn’t easy being that vulnerable while playing that music. I don’t like the feeling, but I know when I open up that others do too. I have finally learned that people need the tenderness they feel in my voice and so I am more comfortable with it now.

Tell us about your latest projects? 

I just released a single called, “Los Angeles” inspired by trip there last year. I was hesitant to go as I just learned my mother was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. I almost cancelled my trip. I did end up writing the lyrics as I was leaving the airport though, so I guess it was meant to be. The song is really for LA; I felt the everyday struggle of such a busy place. . . so many talented people trying to find their dreams/career/etc. and it really touched me to see it. I am releasing (this week) a new pop/rock song called “Better Life.” I don’t remember writing it as I was busy last summer with shows, kids baseball games and travel – but it has turned out to be a personal favorite. I worked with the same producer as the LA song. (Scotty Lund). I am planning a crowd funding project for a new children’s CD in the March called, “Music Makes It Right.” I have a number of new songs I’m really excited about and have been performing for kids a lot lately.

What’s the favorite part of your daily routine? 

My morning coffee and prayer/meditation. It doesn’t last long but it helps center me for the day. I also love exercise and I know it helps me deal with the long winters.

If you would have unlimited resources, what would you like to accomplish?

I would keep on going with recording and releasing music for all ages. I’d produce better music videos with a bigger budget. I would also love to find a manager who would see my vision to balance family life/music; which isn’t an easy dance.

Name something you’re bad at, but love to do. 

Skate skiing. I can’t breathe, can’t seem to get the technique right – but I know I like it anyway and don’t plan on giving up (even after my sprained ankle this past week). ha.

What’s the best thing to eat for breakfast? 

Eggs. Scrambled, over easy, omelets. It doesn’t matter how you eat them. They are the best for breakfast hands down.

If you would have to describe your music and lyrics to someone who hasn’t heard of you, how would that go? 

Better now that I have it down to a simple sentence: I’m a singer/songwriter writing and performing for all ages; from 4-84. 

What was your first reaction when you found out about “Los Angeles” getting so high ranked in the Upcoming 100 Emerging artists?

I was thrilled and humbled that my family and friends were so connected to me and wanting to help. 

What can we expect from you in the near future?

Hopefully that each album gets better and better. That’s what I’m aiming for at least…

Name the top 3 of your bucket list, not necessarily to do with music? 

I’d like to rent a race car and drive it around a real track. I’d like to try polo. I’d like to have horses again. I’d like to adopt. 

If the whole world was listening right now, what would you say ?

I hope that my music touches and inspires them on the good days and on the bad ones.