Courtesy
In a time where streaming numbers are at an all time high and melancholic music is needed the most, Los Angeles indie-artist [Sam Valdez](https://www.instagram.com/samvaldez/) has gifted us with her new track [‘Toothache’](https://soundcloud.com/user-741709641/toothache-3/s-E9N2H). Channeling 1960’s nostalgic Americana with her own contemporary twist, Sam Valdez brings us into her world of self-love and acceptance. In addition to the exclusive premiere, the singer-songwriter speaks to Flaunt about finding her sound, growing up in Nevada and what fans can do to support independent artists during the COVID-19 pandemic.
**Congrats on the release of “Toothache”! After listening to your lyrics, you really connect with the idea of reclaiming self-identity after a breakup. What do you believe is the importance of taking these steps?**
Breakups are always painful but there’s also something so empowering about them. Toothache is about a romantic relationship that you are happy to get out of, it’s a moment of reintroducing yourself to reality. I think it's important because you need to understand who you are and your limits to maintain an independence, but also keep a vulnerability.
**Your sound can be described as indie-alt with soulful and nostalgic elements. What connected you to this style of music?**
It's just what has felt most genuine to me. I've always been really into poetic lyricists so I like to blend that with very straight forward lyrics. I'm really inspired by shoegaze and classical music so I think that translates into my songs.
**How did growing up in the outskirts of Nevada impact your sound?**
I wouldn’t say it had a huge impact on my songs because I wasn’t writing or singing at that time yet but I do write about memories or stories from childhood sometimes. I love the emptiness of a desert, it gives you a safe solitude.
**“Toothache” is the first single off your forthcoming album. Can listeners expect this same theme and sound throughout the project?**
Toothache has a similar feel to my EP as do a few songs off of the new album but I used a lot of new elements on the other album songs that I'm excited about. I've definitely branched out a bit.
**How have you been occupying your time at home during quarantine?**
Every day has been different, there’s been some ups and downs but overall music has really been what’s made it easier. Sometimes I forget how powerful singing and screaming is but it’s such a good release. I've been doing yoga and weird workouts I made up that I'm not sure are totally helpful, reading, embroidering new merch, watching movies I’ve wanted to check out and facetiming with my friends. It's such a surreal time but everyone is in it together so I think having that relation helps in such a stressful situation.
**Top 3 tracks that you have on repeat right now?**
I've been listening to “Fond Farewell” by Elliott Smith, a lot of Frank Ocean and Sufjan Stevens record “Carrie & Lowell” - it's one of my all time favorites. I’ve been listening to more music than ever and have got to check out a lot of new releases like King Krules latest record, it's amazing.
**With the current impact that COVID-19 has on the music community, how can we continue to support independent artists?**
Everyone can still support artists by buying merch online, streaming and donating during live streams since that is our new form of shows.
**What are you most looking forward to once life goes back to normal?**
I can’t wait to hold my friends and play live shows again. I also can’t wait to eat bananas that aren’t laced with Lysol because of my obsessive sanitizing.
**Are you planning any live stream performances that fans can check out?**
Yes, I am playing a show through Earmilk Friday, April 3 at 6pm pst on facebook live. It's my first time playing live online so it will be interesting but I’m excited to keep doing it and see how comfortable it becomes.
**Is there anything else you would like to share?**
Just that I hope everyone is safe and finding ways to cope during this time. Thanks for listening!
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