02 Sep 17year old singer-songwriter Sara Shankar releases debut single “Scriptures”
Sara Shankar is releasing her debut single titled “Scriptures” on August 30, 2019,,inspired by a love letter and an internal fight for self-worth. Shankar seamlessly blends elements from pop, rock, and traditional Indian ragas to create this beautiful and passionate single.
Sara Shankar, 17, is a songwriter, producer, and singer from Texas. She started piano lessons when she was only four years old, and began making her own songs, discovering her gift of perfect pitch and songwriting along the way.
“Creating music is my way of channeling emotions from the present moment,” says Shankar.
Shankar also began producing her own music a few years ago to bring her music to life, and has founded the PIXAPOP Girls Camp. Stanford University’s SHE++ Initiative and the National Center of Women in Technology have recognized her for her efforts in closing the gender gap in music technology.
Listen to the single here (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SSJRTUu_qoo&feature=youtu.be)
We had a chat with her:
Hi Sara Shankar, First up, tell us bit about yourself – what first got you into music?
I was attracted to music almost like a magnet. My parents enrolled me in piano lessons when I was four years old. Instead of practicing, I would doodle on the piano. Whenever I created something new, it felt like the colors were bursting inside me. My favorite part of the day would be when my mom turned on the radio in the car. I would observe the patterns in the pop songs I heard. No one ever taught me how to write or produce a song. It just happened because I always had this gut feeling inside to guide me.
Were there any particular bands or artists you took inspiration from?
Lorde and Julia Michaels. In my free time, I annotate their lyrics. The metaphors, references, and imagery are hidden gems.
How would you describe your musical style ?
My musical style is pop with a hint of the Indian ragas I grew up hearing in my family. My lyrics go past the surface. I try to channel every layer of how I feel with details and references.
If you could collaborate with any living artist, who would it be?.
Julia Michaels. I feel each of her songs on a spiritual level. It’s almost like I’m living her life as I hear them. From driving down Santa Monica to watching TV in make-up, her music transports me into a different world.
Tell us about your new single, ‘Scriptures’. What’s it about, what are its themes?
When I made “Scriptures”, I was at a point in my life where I psychologically needed constant external appreciation. I literally needed someone to tell me that I was beautiful and loved to feel beautiful and loved. I started dating a guy who would write me love notes and letters. The title, “Scriptures” refers to love letters. I put my faith in the sweet words he said. Even though he wasn’t the right person for me, I let my self-worth be determined by those words. I was gullible and indulgent, but I didn’t care.
When did you write it and where did you record it?
I wrote ‘Scriptures’ about two years ago on my arm, while I was on a date. By the time the date was over, my arm was covered in lyrics. My boyfriend at the time didn’t even give it a second glance because he already knew I was wild. After that, I produced it at home and cut the vocals in an LA studio.
How does ‘Scriptures represent your style?
‘Scriptures’ comes from my impulsive side. When I wrote it, I basked in the moment. It has an element of rock in it, but it is pop.
What are your hopes for the new single ‘Scriptures”?
With all my heart, I hope ‘Scriptures’ finds its way to the ears that are meant to listen to it. I hope my song makes the listeners truly feel something inside.
What can you tell us about your plans for the rest of 2019?
I plan to live in the present moment. Right now, some ice cream and a nap sounds lovely. But, there’s also some new exciting music coming down the pike!
Finally, if you could go back in time and give yourself one piece of advice, when would it be and what would you say?
Don’t fight the highs and lows. Just ride them out and learn from them.
Learn more about Sara Shankar:
