GRAE
Photo credit: Lizzie O’ Donnell
Toronto alt-pop artist GRAE released her latest EP Permanent Maniac on August 26th.
Produced by Derek Hoffman, Connor Seidel and UK producer Tev’n, the 6-track EP reflects on past relationships.
“This EP was definitely about healing for me. I was in an on and off dynamic with someone who was very bad for me, and a lot of these songs are related to that story,” says GRAE.
Directed by Priya Howlader and Iris Kim, the singer/songwriter revealed a music video for her song “Permanent Maniac”.
Inspired by artists like The Cure, Prince, Janet Jackson, to Beabadoobee, Clairo, Benee, Girl In Red & Mxmoon, the Canadian artist released her first EP New Girl last year. The debut EP included the hit single “Your Hands”.
Permanent Maniac is now available worldwide.
Photo credit: Mariah Hamilton
Introduce yourself - what's your story?
My name is GRAE! I’m a singer/songwriter from Toronto, Ontario. I got into music at the age of 10, that’s when I got my first guitar and started writing. I grew up listening to all of the music my Dad grew up listening to, which is where I get my taste for 70’s Rock and 80’s New Wave! I knew from the moment I got my first guitar that I wanted to do music, I set that intention for myself and now I’m here!
How would you define GRAE, the artist?
GRAE is an indie, pure spirit. who’s ability with emotional connection is endless. She feels things on another level and speaks large on the language of love and the endless limits of this universe.
Permanent Maniac is your new EP - how does it feel like to release this new project?
‘Permanent Maniac’ means a lot to me, this EP created so much self growth and helped me figure out who I wanted to be as an artist. I’m so happy that it’s finally out. It’s very authentic to who I am and my influences. It feels like a major step forward and I’m even more excited now for what’s next.
When did you start working on this EP? Could you describe the songwriting/production process? Who helped you create it?
I started writing this EP last summer, 2019. ‘Bang Bang’ was the first song created for it actually, with Connor Seidel and Ali Milner. The songwriting process was very natural, I went into the studio and discussed what was going on in my life and that’s how we got the content for the songs. Derek Hoffman and Connor Seidel were the main producers for the EP, then I created ‘Taxi’ with a UK producer named Tev’n. I appreciate everyone who helped me create this body of work immensley. Their all so incredibly gifted at what they do.
What are the different topics you are talking about on this project?
I discuss relationships. Feeling betrayed, trying to get over an ex by dating someone else, wanting to take things slow but always going fast, letting someone go but then they always come back, online connections, celebrity crush’s. This EP was definitely about healing for me. I was in an on and off dynamic with someone who was very bad for me, and a lot of these songs are related to that story. ‘Taxi’ is the end track for the EP which signifies the realization and ending of that toxic relationship. That song specifically means a lot to me.
What did you learn about yourself after finishing this EP?
How to handle relationships and not setting my standards low anymore. I had only been in dynamics that were toxic for me, and this EP really helped me dig a bit deeper and get those feelings out. So because of that, I’m much stronger and understand my worth.
What can you tell us about the artwork?
Mariah Hamilton took the artwork, she’s absolutely amazing. We knew we wanted more of a laid back vibe, and we rented this cute little VW car and took some shots in it, and what we chose was the most ‘Permanent Maniac’ to us.
What can you tell us about the music video for "Permanent Maniac"?
Yes! Priya Howlader and Iris Kim directed the video and did an insane job. It’s my favourite video by far, it’s exactly what I envisioned. Electa Porado did the set design and as always, killed it. I remember walking onto the set for the first time and being blown away. I’m so grateful for everyone I got to work with that day, they’re all so extremely talented. The idea was to have me in my room, frustrated at the lack of inspiration, and then turning to Robert Smith (from The Cure) for motivation. The song is actually about him!
What are your thoughts on today's music industry? If you could change one thing, what would it be?
If I could change once thing it would be that all artists of all colours and genders get the same opportunity. A lot of the time artists that fit into minority sectors are over looked, and don’t get as much recognition as others.
What is the proudest moment of your career so far?
I’ve had a few. ’Your Hands’ reaching over 3millon plays across platforms was insane, as it was my second released song ever. Winning Socan’s ‘Young Songwriters Award’ and opening for BENEE. There’s been a lot of highlights. I’m grateful.
What does it mean for you to be an artist?
Being in tune with myself and honest in my writing. There’s a lot of emotions, myself especially, that artists feel. I think it’s important to always stay true to your self and let it out in writing. That’s how most artists process what they’re going through.
What major life lesson have you learned so far?
I’m constantly evolving. I’ve been through a couple spiritual journeys in my life, and actually going through one right now. They’re always intense, but they always help me understand the fragility of this life and how important it is to be still with yourself so you can process things. I’ve started learning how to handle whatever comes my way better, and how important it is to listen to your intuition, heart, and surround yourself with good people.
In your opinion, what would make the world a better place?
I truly think it’s important for people to sit with themselves and process their emotions. If we could all act with our hearts and not the irrationality of our initial feelings toward a situation or person, that would benefit the world majorly.
What message do you want to give to the world?
You can create the life you want to live. Anything you want, the universe will help you get there, all you need to do is ask and trust in the process.
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