Q: You used to be in the band “Lovers & Lions”, what was that experience like?
HSTR: Being a part of Lovers & Lions was one of the best things that ever happened to me. We had a ‘just try it’-mentality that worked really well for us. We jumped at every opportunity and I think that’s what made us grow very fast. As an NL-based band, the experience of recording an EP in Nashville was the highlight of it all. I feel very lucky that I got to experience that. We’ve grown apart now and we’re all doing our own things, but I’ll cherish those memories forever.
Q:What was it like working with Grammy Award-winning songwriter Femke Reynolds?
HSTR: Femke is one of the most inspiring people I’ve ever met. She can make you feel like anything is possible. She has a ton of experience in this industry, so whenever I got to talk to her I’d try to soak up as much information as I could. I always left the conversation feeling like my eyes had been opened. Our writing session was fun! We wrote a song called ‘Love Is’ together, which will come out later this year.
Q: Would you like to collaborate with anyone? If so who and why?
HSTR: I would really love to be a fly on the wall in one of Kacey Musgraves’ writing sessions. Or, if we’re dreaming big right now, be a part of one. Her lyrics are so honest, fun and transparent. And her melodies are gorgeous too. A collab of her and me would be my dream!
Q: Of your own music, do you have a favorite? If so, can you pin down why it is your favorite?
HSTR: That’s hard! I feel like all the songs I decided to release are songs that really feel like they’re a part of me. I’ve discovered that I only feel comfortable with releasing and promoting songs, when the songs are completely transparent and honest. I’m a true lyric junkie, so I’m very careful with the words I choose to sing. Right now, I love ‘Break Me’, because it’s still brand new!
Q: What is your favorite part about this line of work? Your least favorite? Why?
HSTR: Oh so many favorite parts! I love working with many different people, having all of us work hard to create something meaningful and beautiful. Whenever I’ve finished a song with my team, I just feel so proud and fulfilled. Another thing I love is playing live. It’s always an exciting experience, because you get invited to places you’ve never been before. So you see something new, meet someone new and go back home with that glorious rush you get after performing in front of people.
One thing I find hard about this line of work is trying to make a living out of it. This industry is complex and it’s hard to make it into something steady for yourself.
Q: What can we expect from you within the next 6 months, besides your upcoming EP? Future gigs?
HSTR: My EP will come out later this year. Very exciting! And gigs are finally happening again, check my website for gig announcements!
Interviewed by Stephanie Pankewich
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