Krissy Adaluz, a native New Yorker and independent artist, carries an unserious yet serious vibe in everything she does. She produces, writes, and composes all of her own music while resisting the temptation to start from scratch at every turn. Drawing inspiration from the Trip-Hop and Alternative Rock sounds of the 1990s and 2000s, Krissy’s work is a blend of moody atmospheres and subtle mysticism. Check out the exclusive Interview below:
1. Did your musical journey begin with formal training, or was it more of a personal exploration? How has that shaped your unique approach to your craft?
KRISSY ADALUZ: My journey with interacting with music began in Kindergarten, where music class helped us learn to read sheet music and practice on the piano keyboard. Since then, I’ve gone on to learn the acoustic guitar and the violin, and I found my way back to improving my piano skills around age 14. I’ve been committed to it ever since!
2. What do you believe sets your music apart? How would you describe your sound to someone discovering you for the first time, and what emotions or experiences do you hope to evoke in your listeners?
KRISSY ADALUZ: Based on the two singles I’ve already released—’ In the Medium’ and ‘Sunset at Midnight’—I can see how listeners might notice that my music contains elements of both darkness and light. I love embracing both, and I often find myself pulled in either direction sonically. Life continues to remind me that appreciating both can be a beautiful thing.
3. For most artists, originality is first preceded by a phase of learning and, often, emulating others. What was this like for you? How would you describe your own development as an artist and music maker, and the transition towards your own style, which is known as POP?
KRISSY ADALUZ: It took me many years—a decade, actually—to feel comfortable with the style I gravitate toward when creating music. In the early days, I was often unsatisfied with what I made, both lyrically and musically. Now, after years of practice and experimentation, I love my sound more than ever. Interestingly, I’ve realized that I don’t create the same type of music I enjoy from my favorite artists. I never want to limit myself to one genre or style. Over time, I hope my music continues to reflect the evolution of my artistry.
4. Music often transcends entertainment. What’s your view on the role and function of music as political, cultural, spiritual, and/or social vehicles – and do you try and affront any of these themes in your work, or are you purely interested in music as an expression of technical artistry, personal narrative, and entertainment?
KRISSY ADALUZ: I believe music can and should encompass all of those things. While music is certainly a form of entertainment, I think it would be limiting to create it for that purpose alone. Although I’m not making any definitive cultural or political statements with this debut album, I look forward to expressing my thoughts on both in the future.
5. Do you feel the rewards of your musical career match the energy and passion you invest in it, or are there different kinds of fulfillment you’re still seeking?
KRISSY ADALUZ: The real reward is being able to compose a song that I feel completely connected to, both lyrically and sonically. Expressing myself in that way is my catharsis, and if it sounds great, I’m satisfied. That said, having an audience who can emotionally connect to the music is incredibly empowering—it makes the connection feel even more impactful and elevates the meaning of the tracks.
6. Can you walk us through your creative process? From the first spark of an idea to the finished track, what’s the most essential part of your process, and how do collaboration or external influences shape your work?
KRISSY ADALUZ: Most of the songs I’ve written begin with a spark from a chord progression or arpeggios on the piano. From there, I figure out the key and start building the rest of the song. Since the lyrics don’t always come in the early stages, I let the tone and feel of the music guide the mood. Sometimes, I even remove the piano altogether if it no longer fits, but it always helps me lay the initial foundation. Eventually, I start writing lyrics that naturally come to mind as I listen to the music, even if I haven’t fully worked out the melodies yet. And after what feels like a billion years, I bring the music and lyrics together.
7. What’s been the most challenging hurdle in either your personal life or music career, and how has it shaped you as an artist?
KRISSY ADALUZ:
Getting through life itself is definitely one of the biggest challenges. Balancing my artistry with a day job and other responsibilities can be tough. Still, that struggle gives me an even stronger hunger to write and find relief through music.
8. On the flip side, what moment or achievement in your career so far has made you feel the proudest, and why? And let’s talk about your latest release and future plans.
KRISSY ADALUZ: So far, releasing two singles from my debut album, Conflicted, has been such a rewarding and proud achievement for me. It takes courage to put yourself out there, especially when it’s art that has been brewing for so long. ‘In the Medium’ was certainly a bold choice for a first impression. With ‘Sunset at Midnight,’ I wanted to start the summer with something dreamy and nostalgic. I love both songs and hope they offer a glimpse into how dramatically my sound can shift. Conflicted is set to be released this year and will feature 11 tracks, all centered around the emotional turbulence I experienced during my teenage years. A cool hint? I’m already in the process of finishing my next album, which explores a more mature and complex sound, with deeper concepts and lyrics.
9. With social media having a heavy impact on our lives and the music business in general, how do you handle criticism, haters, and/or naysayers in general? Is it something you pay attention to, or simply ignore?
KRISSY ADALUZ: So far, the ‘no’s haven’t been too difficult to move past. Everyone is entitled to their own opinions and personal preferences. That said, I genuinely appreciate positive, constructive criticism. It’s something you can choose to use and grow from, and I truly value receiving it. I also remind myself not to internalize unnecessary harsh criticism or negativity because some really do thrive on anger and hatred.
10. Creative work in a studio or home environment, or interaction with a live audience? Which of these two options excites you most, and why?
KRISSY ADALUZ: In the past, performing live has always been exciting and invigorating for me. However, I’ve never performed my own material live before, so that would definitely make me a bit more nervous. I think I’d still find it thrilling, but I’d probably spend weeks obsessively practicing to get it just right. That said, my favorite part of the process is the creative moments that happen when I’m writing at home. I always write at night, and the hours just before dawn seem to bring out my strongest ideas.
11. Do you think is it important for fans of your music to understand the real story and message driving each of your songs, or do you think everyone should be free to interpret your songs in their own personal way?
KRISSY ADALUZ: It’s really important for me to convey the intention behind my music. Since I’m not always explicit with the story, I think sharing the ‘behind the track’ stories on my website is a great way to connect with fans who appreciate that context. However, I also encourage all listeners to connect with the songs in their own personal way. Music should always be open to interpretation.
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