“Multidisciplinary artist Lisa SQ has always had a knack for finding beauty in human clumsiness. Drawing on a bilingual upbringing and influences ranging from the timeless soul of Billie Holiday to the avant-garde spirit of David Bowie, she has spent the last few years crafting a sound that is as eccentric as it is intimate. Today, she officially unveils her debut full-length project, Reel Me In. Produced by a powerhouse team including Tyler Kyte and Ian Docherty, the album is a testament to the power of connection and the art of turning internal chaos into something you can dance to.”
What first got you into music?
Music was always playing in our house or blaring in the car on long road trips. Still to this day, music acts as a connective tissue within my family. There are certain albums and songs which have almost become a shared language between my brother, my parents, and myself. I have such fond memories of those times; the music of my childhood is like an instant portal to happiness.
What would you be doing right now if it weren’t for your music career?
My music career is something I balance alongside being a Montessori teacher, which I am also very passionate about. So if I wasn’t devoting time to music, I would just be teaching more! I think exploring alternative modes of education that really support human development in its different stages is becoming more and more crucial. The world is changing so much and so quickly; therefore, we also need to be adapting the kind of learning environments we offer our youngest citizens. Also spending more time dedicated to nature, I think we have a lot to learn from the connectivity and interdependence of different ecosystems.
What are your musical plans for the next 12 months or so?
With “Reel Me In” hot off the presses, we have some fun shows coming up, including a few official album release shows planned for the new year in Toronto/Hamilton… maybe Montreal? (somewhat belated… in true crappybirthdaylisa fashion). My teaching schedule is based around the growing season, so I have some quiet time in Jan/Feb in which I’ll be doing some writing and recording. I have one concept album already written (ooo….mysterious…), and lots of new songs on the go. Would love to do some more co-writing with other artists and hoping to play more shows throughout the spring/summer.
What is your biggest musical challenge?
My approach to writing and recording is a bit whimsical… So sometimes when I’m in the studio I feel like I’m speaking a whole other language. I don’t always know the right lingo or technical terms to describe something, so I am often communicating in metaphors or trying to paint a picture of a feeling, hoping everyone can extract and disseminate my grand, poetic rants into practical feedback. I don’t always know how to express what I like, but when I hear it, it’s very clear. I find demoing things out on my own beforehand helps a lot with being able to explore the world of the song and translate it more clearly to my collaborators.
Are you creative in other disciplines?
OMG… I think “making stuff” is my true love language. I am definitely a project monster… who loves to craft things using all kinds of different mediums. I have a background in theatre and film production, so telling stories through video, whether it’s for my music, educational purposes (Bonjour Lisa), or a fun collaboration, is something that really tickles my fancy. I also get a lot of satisfaction using natural materials or up-cycling old things into new pieces. It forces you to use your imagination while saving money and diverting waste! Another artist friend and I have an ongoing project, “Survival of the Friendliest,” which includes interactive street art and pop-up exhibitions.
Do you sing in the shower? What songs?
Honestly, I think I sing more in the bath. There is something really comforting about feeling the water and tub vibrate around you when hitting certain notes. Billie Holiday is my favourite bath music.
Do you have a cherished childhood teddy bear or other stuffed animal sitting on your bed at home?
I don’t have any stuffies kicking around, but I do have a very beloved ceramic music box from my childhood next to my bed. It features a family of ducks and plays Burt Bacharach’s “What the World Needs Now Is Love.” It’s definitely one of my most prized possessions.
Do you shout out the answers at the TV whilst watching quiz shows?
I mean, is there any other way!? I definitely go through phases where tuning into Jeopardy becomes an evening ritual, so yes, I yell at the TV.
What’s your favourite children’s story?
The story of Ferdinand (The Bull), by Munro Leaf. Love that it challenges the expectations that are placed upon us, and that Ferdinand prefers to sit peacefully smelling flowers rather than fighting in the ring with the matador like all the other bulls… I feel that.
If you were talking to a younger version of you, what advice would you give yourself?
I might say something like, “It’s never too late to try something new.” Don’t worry about the outcome; find pleasure in the process. Don’t become an island; make sure to surround yourself with creative collaborators who can support and help bring out the best in you and your work. Also, don’t forget to have fun!