Through his music and stories, he invites you to join him on his musical journey. He gets his inspiration from legends like Beyoncé and Prince as well as modern artists like Pink Sweat$ and Blxst. Breaking the mold of staying in a small Tennessee town, he brought his dreams and artistic ability to Los Angeles. His songs have something that everyone can enjoy. As he makes his way to the top, he promises to keep working hard, keeping faith, and believing that anything is possible.
The summertime song “show off” is entertaining and will energize your main character. Check out the song and the exclusive interview below:
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1. Can you tell us a bit about where you come from and how you got started?
AUNASTI: I am from a small town in Tennessee. I’ve grew up in church singing and I’ve always wanted to pursue music, but was scared. Until one day I pushed myself to follow my dreams.
2. Did you have any formal training or are you self-taught?
AUNASTI: mostly self-taught, but currently taking lessons to perfect my craft
3. Who were your first and strongest musical influences and why the name ‘AUNASTI’?
AUNASTI: my first and strongest musical influence is Beyoncé. I love her stage presence and how she gives every single part of her in ever song. The name aunasti (honesty) came up up with a conversation with my two best friends. I was looking to rebrand myself and still stay authentic. I said I wanted to be honest about myself and my music so everyone can see the light in me. My friends said “how about honest legend” and I thought was incredible. I asked him what about honestly and he told me yes but spell it “aunasti”
4. What do you feel are the key elements in your music that should resonate with listeners, and how would you personally describe your sound?
AUNASTI: my sound is definitely one of a kind. If you were to here my song on the radio, you’ll be able to tell that it was me. I just wanna have everyone being able to relate to the stories I tell and see the Pyrenees in every song
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AUNASTI:
at first I was struggling trying to make sure I sound like this guy or do the same type of music as this girl. It took me awhile to figure out who aunasti is and he is this fearless king that commands attention when he walks into a room. He is this soulful RNB & Pop prince thats rising to the top.
6. 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?
AUNASTI:
as queer artist. I’m here to show every kid like me that there is space in this world for us and we shouldn’t hide because of fear
7. Do you feel that your music is giving you back just as much fulfilment as the amount of work you are putting into it, or are you expecting something more, or different in the future?
AUNASTI:
it’s definitely fulfilling me. I do no I have a lot more work to do! I have to be 10x better than I was the day before
8. Could you describe your creative processes? How do usually start, and go about shaping ideas into a completed song? Do you usually start with a tune, a beat, or a narrative in your head? And do you collaborate with others in this process?
AUNASTI:
sometimes I start with a beat and there are days where a melody just pops in my head. I’m constantly writing music. I wake up out my sleep some days because of a melody I hear in my dreams.
9. What has been the most difficult thing you’ve had to endure in your life or music career so far?
AUNASTI:
not even your close friends or family will support you. That’s okay because you have to be your biggest cheerleader.
10. On the contrary, what would you consider a successful, proud or significant point in your life or music career so far?
AUNASTI: the day I’m acknowledged by my gifts and talents. Bringing light to my small town and making a difference in everyone’s life.
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Photo credits: Palm Tree Vision