Q: Hi Lexi, so nice to speak with you today! I love the raw emotion that you display in “Exit.” From the lyrics, it seems like the song is about a relationship where you love the person so much but know that they aren’t the end game. Did any real-life events occur in your life that inspired the song?
LEXI ANAND: To be really honest, the inspiration for the song originated from the title. I really wanted to write a song entitled, “Exit.” Then, as I was strumming the guitar figuring out the hook, I was reminded of my personal experience in a toxic situation. The lyrics unfolded from my feelings during that relationship. So, yes.
Q: With such deep and profound lyrics, I’m curious about your writing process. Can you walk me a bit through it?
LEXI ANAND: Of course! Although it does feel like it is a different process for every song, I usually begin by trying out different chord progressions on the piano or guitar. Once the progression is solidified, I start singing melodies. Whatever comes to me. The melody writing and lyric writing is kind of a simultaneous process. I’ll perfect the lyrics after I have a bunch of words scrambled in my journal. Then, I have a song!
Q: Do you remember who/what first got you into music? Was there a pivotal moment in your life when you decided to follow your path as a musician?
LEXI ANAND: My Mom put me in Kindermusik classes when I was just an infant. I truly can’t remember a time in my life when music wasn’t intertwined. In Kindergarten, my favorite thing to do was singing and then, my singing teacher suggested songwriting. So, I wrote a song and then in first grade, my favorite thing changed to writing music. I was telling everyone that my dream profession was to be a singer/songwriter. And it has remained my dream ever since.
Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received about the music industry, and how has it helped you so far?
LEXI ANAND: This may be so cliché, but the best advice I’ve heard is to be authentic. In the midst of the chaos of the industry, it’s actually super easy to waiver away from what you really want or who you really are. When you are surrounded by numerous opinions, remember your own and have faith in it.
I definitely have been told to stay true to my authenticity as an artist, but I was too scared to stand up for my opinions. As I have gotten older, I have grown into my voice. It has really paid off and has led me to feel more connected than ever with the people who support my music.
#2: Most people will remember how you make them feel, not how talented you are. If you happen to sing well, that’s just a plus.
Q: “Exit” has a simple yet exhilarating instrumental, which creates an emotional track. What was the production process like on “Exit”?
LEXI ANAND: I played the song on my guitar for Bill McDermott, the producer of the song. He instantly had ideas. I instantly had ideas. And we jumped right in. We recorded a full band. Then, we stripped away some of the instrumental voices during certain parts of the song. I then recorded the vocals. We added synths. Then, it was done. Bill McDermott is the most amazing producer and person. He knows how to elicit the authenticity of an artist. The making of “Exit” was an unforgettable experience for me.
Q: What has been one of the highlights of your music career so far?
LEXI ANAND: Sincerely, releasing “Exit” has been the most rewarding experience of my career. I wrote this song in my bedroom completely by myself. I, then, witnessed friends of mine to strangers I don’t know connect with the song. I feel like I’m truly a part of this magic of music. People are finding solace in “Exit” and they write me the sweetest messages ever. I want to frame every word of support I receive. It’s so overwhelming and I’m so grateful.
Q: How has attending Vanderbilt University made an impact on your music career?
LEXI ANAND: Being at Vanderbilt has kept me inspired. I meet so many talented people on a daily basis. Balancing my studies with my career makes me super busy, but I’m definitely the type of person that absolutely thrives in chaos and an overbooked calendar. I feel like my songs are better.
Q: Thanks for speaking with me! What would you like to say to your fans out there?
LEXI ANAND: Thank you for connecting with my songs! Your support makes me feel so loved and heard. I love you times one million. I have a new music video out and I hope you love it as much as I do. <3
Interviewed by Melissa Cusano
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