Reminiscence
Reminiscence is a Texas-based artist/producer/songwriter.
His first project I Don’t Wanna Be Alone, I’m Scared was released last year.
Exploring topics such as mental health, sexuality, life experiences and relationships, the 16 year old indie-pop artist encourages people to fully celebrate their differences and embrace their feelings.
“I want to normalize a lot of feelings that are really judged by people today. Happiness is so expected, while struggles are frowned upon, as well as misunderstood,” he explains.
Produced with motive and co-written with Crystal Badalian, his latest single “Stitch My Lips Closed” is now available on major streaming platforms.
Introduce yourself - what’s your story?
I am a Texas-based artist and I began producing music on FL Studios back in 2016. I switched to Logic Pro X after two years, and I’ve been writing ever since I was 13. I am now 16 with an 8-track EP, and four singles out, fusing together elements of pop and electronic music into a clear river of touching sounds.
Could you tell us about your childhood a little bit?
I grew up with a really supportive family, but I never realized who I truly was until January of 2019. I always tried to be honest with everyone, and that’s what I incorporate in my songwriting. Whatever I was feeling as a child, I would try to express it in a way that was musical.
If you could say something to your younger self, what would you tell him?
I’d tell him that I’m proud of him for not giving up on music. It’s such a painful feeling when you create something that gives you hope, and then you listen to something on the radio, and just feel so crushed compared to it. I’m proud of myself for not giving up after feeling that countless times.
How would you describe yourself today?
All over the place! I had went through my library of old music before my project “I Don’t Wanna Be Alone, I’m Scared,” and picked out some things I want to finish up. I also had a job interview, hoping it went well!
When did you start writing songs? What made you want to write in the first place?
What really got me into the joy of songwriting was the fact that it was an outlet for me to spill what I was feeling into an emotion I felt didn't exist, which happened frequently. I eventually just became attached to “making up” emotions in my writing.
How would you define Reminiscence, the artist?
I would describe Reminiscence as an artist who wishes the best for people who feel like who they are isn’t valid or enough. He wants you to know that you are worth so much and whatever you might be going through is totally okay and normal. Reminiscence wants to normalize a lot of feelings that are really judged by people today. Happiness is so expected, while struggles are frowned upon, as well as misunderstood.
Who was the first person to ever believe in you?
Definitely my mom. Always been a supporter for what I do, and was there when I discovered myself. I’d also say my friend, Jada, who I’ve known since kindergarten. We both have this shared love for music and we can be honest with each other no matter what it is.
You released your first record I Don't Wanna Be Alone, I'm Scared last year - what can you tell us about this project?
“I Don’t Wanna Be Alone, I’m Scared” was such a journey for me, mentally, physically, and emotionally. One of the tracks describe an online relationship which took up my entire headspace, and one describes not knowing yourself completely yet. I wanted people listening to know that every single emotion conveyed on this EP is completely valid and accepted. It’s okay to not know yourself yet, you have so much time! It’s also okay to move on for that time, and not forever.
What did you learn about yourself after finishing this album?
I learned how much mental stress I can take, as well as my emotional tolerance.
"Stitch My Lips Closed" is your latest single, what's the story behind this song? Who helped you create this song?
This song is about toxic love and what it does to your mindset. It was such an interesting song to write and produce. The exact emotion I felt was what I conveyed through the song. I had another producer, motive, help with the finishing touches of the production, while Crystal Badalian helped me write lyrics that had a striking feeling of “I’m so glad I left.” Basically relief.
Who's helping you build your artistry and career?
I’d have to say my best friends! Crystal helps me write so much of my songs and she’s just the perfect person to write with if you want to write something amazing. Jada’s also helped me with some of my productions and songwriting using her honesty and production skills.
What's the hardest part about being an artist and what's the best part?
The hardest part would definitely be trying to spread your message to people, wanting to comfort them, but not knowing how to get known by them. That being said, the best part is being told that your music has comforted someone. It makes you feel so powerful, and it made we want to spread my positive message even more.
What biggest life lessons have you learned so far?
I heard someone say "don’t compare your behind the scenes to someone else’s spotlight." It just moved me so much and let me know that the reason that a lot of people are successful is because they worked a long time getting to where they are.
What message do you want to give to anyone going through any mental illness?
Whatever happens in your head, just know that you are loved so much. Anything you are struggling with is completely understood and nothing bad is permanent. Don’t ever let someone tell you “It’s all in your head,” as well as, “Don’t be sad.”
What would you say to anyone who feels "different" and "not normal"?
Set your self apart! Even if you’re standing alone, that difference is an amazing quality to have today.
What advices would you give to the LGBTQIA+ youth?
Please do not let others hurt you with their words. Even if they do hurt you, please stay strong! Remember that nobody deserves to be put down over something they cannot control.
What are your thoughts on today's global situation? How are you holding up?
I am so bored of staying at home! I love it though, because there’s never been this much free time to focus on myself as an artist and my craft. I’d still love to go out and get myself my medium iced caramel latte with an extra shot of espresso. Even if you are going out to eat, please wear a face mask (covering your nose too), clean gloves, and go alone! There’s so much things that could happen if you don’t take precautions even for a little.
In your opinion, what would make the world a better place?
If people would view others mental health like normal, a lot more respect would happen. Also if people would stop buying in bulk, especially water bottles. The environment is still at risk.
What message do you want to deliver to the world?
Know that inner conflict and not knowing yourself is perfectly okay, and being different is the most amazing quality to have. Set yourself apart instead of trying to get your voice to be noticed in a crowd of millions wanting to do the same thing.
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