This interview took place prior to the release of “Rainbow Skin.”
Mustard had the pleasure of speaking with Samira Hills. Together we discussed their relationship with music, magic, their influences, their latest single “Rainbow Skin”, and so much more!
1. Mustard is thankful to have you join them at Music Shelf. How are you doing today?
I’m doing very well thank-you. I’m still riding the wave of excitement around a new song I dropped last week called ‘Rainbow Skin’. I feel like every pop star needs a gay anthem and ‘Rainbow skin’ Is definitely mine. If I was to describe how I am feeling in 3 words I would say: Optimistic, Ambitious and Grateful. However I can assure you, I do not feel this way everyday.
2. Mustard wonders what your relationship with music was growing up. Was there a specific artist or band you found yourself connecting with?
Well, in the very early days (early 2000’s) I developed a deep passion for musical theater. I think it was fueled by a combination of classic Disney musicals. Shows like High school musical and Camp rock. And, my family is big on theater so naturally, I felt myself yearning to be on stage. Later on, heading towards about 10 years old, I decided I wanted to write my own music and tell my own story. That’s when I picked up a guitar and started singing about what was happening in my own life. A common theme in my songwriting back then was about my time at school. Kids can be so nasty and unfortunately I found out the hard way. Artists like Jessie J, P!nk, Katy Perry and Taylor swift have all written songs about the trials and tribulations you face when you’re growing up. I was always very inspired by this.
3. Going off that, is there a song or album that had a significant impact on you? Could you share more about it?
I would have to say ‘Who you are’ by Jessie J. That album helped me through some of the toughest times I faced growing up. I will always have a great appreciation for that album. Jessie J was also the first artist I saw in concert. Her vocals are out of this world.
4. You consider your oddity your superpower. Could you elaborate on this?
Often people are picked apart and judged for their differences. I have been a victim of this my entire life. This can make you very fragile and it’s so easy to start believing all the nasty things people say about you are true. What I have come to realize though, is that there is so much power in being different and unique. Value your differences, cherish your quirks. They are what make you, you. Your oddities really are your superpower.
5. You want your listeners to enter a world of magic, emotion, and liberation. If you could set your music in any magical environment what environment would that be? What emotion do you hope listeners will feel?
Fantasy and magic is something I have always found very comforting. Whether it’s found in music, films, theater…I need somewhere magical to escape to when life starts to feel heavy. I want to provide that same feeling of comfort for my listeners. I think having access to escapism is important for surviving a world that can be so dark and scary.
6. You’re a singer, producer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. Which came first? How do they intertwine within your creative process?
Singing is where it all started. I sing all day, everyday. Always will, always have. Having these skills allow me to have full control of the creative stuff. And the creative stuff is my favorite stuff.
7. Who (or what) influences you?
Pop icons like Madonna, Kylie, Katy Perry, Lady Gaga and so so so many more! I’m influenced by real people and real stories too. I feel it is my duty to use music as a tool to shed light on real issues with the world. Like transphobia for instance.
8. In 2020 you received the “The Biggest Sound of 2020” award for your single “Revenge.” Can you recall winning that award? What inspired “Revenge?”
It was a huge honor to be awarded that title. It’s the greatest feeling in the world being recognised for something you’re so passionate about. I’m still very proud of that song. It was inspired by some guy I met when I was 16. He isn’t even worth mentioning haha. I appreciate him inspiring a pretty good song though.
9. You followed up revenge with “Designer Dreams.” Do you have a favorite period of fashion? How did fashion influence the song? How does it inspire you?
Oooo my favorite period for fashion would probably be the 80s. I am obsessed with the permed hair, fishnets, mesh gloves and neon EVERYTHING. Everything about the 80s inspires me. It was a magical time, especially for music.
10. How would you describe your newest single “Rainbow Skin?”
They can expect a powerful 80s rock pop inspired LGBTQ anthem for all the gays, she’s and they’s. I love the LGBTQ+ community and I really dedicate this song to them. I myself am part of the community and I am so proud of that.
11. Where can readers listen to your music?
You can find my music on all major streaming platforms. Spotify, Apple music, amazon music and plenty more. I am very active on Instagram and TikTok as well. Anybody is welcome to come and join the beautiful family.
Music Shelf With Mustard 