Check out our interview with talented Canadian artist Spade.
Follow Spade at @thisisspade
Hi Spade, please tell us a little about you?
Hey! I’m from Toronto, Canada. I’m 22 and I’ve been singing since I was 7. I actually started training classically. I am super grateful to my first ever vocal teacher for taking me in that direction. That foundation of training was so wonderful because I was able to branch out into many other vocal styles like pop music. I started writing songs when I was about 10 years old. I would chord a lot on the piano and just write whatever I was feeling. It was a great outlet for me to start writing without judgement. As I got older, it allowed me to try out so many ideas and filter through the ones that I loved and wanted to share. Outside of my music, I am a huge history geek. I love British history and Ancient history … like Rome and Greece. My cultural roots are Italian, and I even speak a fair bit of the language (thanks to my grandparents). I just released my-self entitled EP in January and I am over the moon excited for you all to take a listen and get to know my music more.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Passionate. Bubbly. Creative.
Who has made the biggest impact on your life so far, and why?
This is a tough question. There are so many people who have helped me along my journey through life and music. I can’t really pick one, but I will shout out all of my wonderful and amazing teachers. Music and in regular school! There were some who really inspired me and motivated me to pursue my dreams and to always put 100% into everything I do. My mom and dad are another huge inspiration to me. They always worked so hard to achieve their goals and constantly supported me. I also have to give a shout out to some of the friends I’ve met along the way. It is really wonderful when you have certain people you click with and inspire you. I am very lucky I have so many amazing people in my life.
How did you get started in the business?
I started taking voice lessons at 7 years old. Through that, I began making some connections by meeting and studying with different teachers in my area. After taking a few years of voice lessons, I really wanted to get into acting as well. I was in TV commercials, musicals, plays, and was lucky enough to network with people in the music business through all those experiences. One connection definitely leads to the other and I wanted to give it a try because I always knew from a young age, I enjoyed writing and performing my own music.
Did you go to music school?
I did! I was lucky enough to attend an arts Highschool majoring in voice and drama. After I graduated, I went to Sheridan College for their Honours Bachelor of Music Theatre Performance program. I took a bunch of dance, voice and theatre classes throughout school. There was even a pop class! I think it was in that class I realized I really wanted to get into the pop world.
Describe your sound in 3 words?
Personable. Relatable. Creative.
Who influenced you and why did you choose to make music?
I had a teacher who taught me at my regional arts high school. My brother was in the band program there before me and he had joined the voice programs choir as well. I absolutely adored this teacher and I was only in grade 2. Every time I would go see their concerts, I saw how loving and encouraging she was with the students. It motivated me to want to start taking music classes and then eventually audition for that Highschool. I really loved seeing the environment of people sharing their love for music in a community. It was so fulfilling to witness at such a young age.
Do you ever get nervous?
Depends on the situation! I still do sometimes if things are new and unfamiliar. I think nerves are good.
What is your next goal as a musician?
My next goal would be to continue to branch out to different listeners and create more music that widens my style. I really want to explore some new sounds.
Now tell us about your single “Hardest Thing?”
“Hardest Thing” was the first song I wrote with my amazing team in LA. I had a very clear vision of what production aspects I liked. We began writing based on a quote that I brought in. My quote was “It’s hard to walk away from something you want when you know it’s not right”. I wrote that in my book because I was reflecting on the losses in my life and how similar they are. Love, friendship, death, you name it. There was a time in my late teens when I was really going through it all. I then began to realize how that also connects to such a positive place. Not wanting to leave or let go of that person because it’s so hard to move on from those good times and memories. The track became so light and up-beat that it kind of surprised me. I guess I just didn’t expect it to take that turn. The depth of the lyric is still there. The heartache and pain of having to let someone go is there. Listeners can artistically interpret the song to their own depths and experiences because the vibe and energy invites them in. Also, who doesn’t love a good bop?
Do you have a tour coming up or where we can see you performing?
As of right now I don’t have anything coming up in the near future. The world is a little bit crazy with this pandemic that is currently happening. I think everyone’s goal right now is to stay safe and healthy. I have some ideas going on in my mind for the future when all of this is over!
What we can expect of Spade in 2020?
Hopefully a performance…. Definitely more video content and social media content! I also want to start recording again once everything settles down.
What is your favorite song to belt out in the car/for karaoke?
“I Feel It Coming” by The Weeknd.
Name one your strengths?
Music!
What is your own definition of happiness?
Loving your-self.
Any loves other than music and acting?
Yes! Like I had mentioned before, Ancient history and British history. I love documentaries, conspiracy theories, and murder mysteries. I also love bullet journaling and organizing.
Any exiting news you want to share with us?
I have a lyric video coming out in the next few weeks for my song “Sirens” on my EP!
How’s a typical day in your life?
I teach online, so I usually get up at around 7 and work till 10am. Then I go to hot yoga. I LOVE hot yoga! I practice music literally every day for at least an hour. Take my dog out for a walk and maybe if there’s extra time, hang out with some friends.
Idea of a perfect Sunday?
I am going to give you the lazy version because my life is usually very busy… once Sunday rolls around I will do anything to have a chill day. Netflix and a good ol’ Nutella sandwich in bed.
What is your favorite healthy food?
I really love salads. I’ve always been a huge fan of veggies. You can bet that every day I am always craving a good salad.
And your favorite cheat food?
Nutella and/or chips !!!
What would be a deal breaker on a first date?
If he wasn’t a good communicator.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
I would love to meet Michael Jackson because like… who wouldn’t? He is a genius and I am so sad I never got to see him live before he passed. I would love to get to know him and hear about his journey as an artist all those years. He is so inspiring.
How do you see yourself in 5 years?
Hopefully continuing to make music and connecting with people. I’d love to move in the city and travel more!
How would you describe your fashion style?
Edgy and cute. I really like a good dress down outfit, cute pair of track pants and a T shirt with some gold jewellery. I also love dressing up in a skirt with a nice top and heels! Leather and lace are a favourite of mine too. Depends on my mood. I definitely do go for neutral and dark/vampy colours.
What do you think of Social Media?
I think it is a really great outlet to connect with listeners and promote your music, but I do think it’s healthy to take a little break once and a while and recharge.
Where we can follow you?
You can follow me on Instagram and twitter @thisisspade and you can find me on Youtube. Come say hi!
Quote: “A crowded mind leaves no space for a peaceful heart” – Christine Evangelou
Song: “I Feel It Coming” The Weeknd
Movie: TROY
Travel Destination: England or Italy
Food: Pasta or Sushi
Sports Team: Toronto Raptors!
