With a high-spirited mentality and not wasting another moment on something meaningless, the courageous Katija kindly had a chat with us recently and led us into her life as a proudly queer artist, living between two cities and that real connection.
Hello there Katija. What are you most passionate about at the moment and where in the world do we find you today?
Katija: I am most passionate about creating things that bring positivity and understanding to the world! Music has always been a major part of my life and has helped me through so many dark and amazing times. I want to be able to share my experiences with others and provide connections through music. I’m currently based between Auckland, New Zealand & Melbourne, Australia.
What was the creative process like during the making of your latest single Won’t Waste My Time.
Katija: It was a very interesting one! Like so many other artists, during the pandemic, I was isolated and away from working collaboratively with my band in one room! I had always sung blues and soul before the pandemic, however, I was inspired to try something new with what I had at my disposal – my voice and my computer! I had recently gone through a rough breakup so I need a creative way to process my emotions, and the song was born! I then worked with Melbourne-based producer, MarKia, to develop the song and record it when I was back in Australia. The process took about 18 months, but it was worth it!
Please tell us more about how being a queer artist inspires you in this rather odd time for humanity?
Katija: I believe that everyone, no matter who you are or where you come from has a place in this world. In my adult life, I have always been an advocate for inclusion and self-expression. I have run Queer events and worked in Queer organisations, providing safe spaces for people to be themselves. I am inspired by other amazing performers who truly embrace who they are. There are so many in the Queer community and it’s AMAZING. My vision is to provide music and environments that inspire people to be 100% them!
When you close your eyes for a few seconds and imagine your ideal music stage, what does it look like visually to you and who is there?
Katija: Sequins, colour and fabulous dancers! Ideally, a stage show that is high-energy and a damn good time!
Which local music venues would you recommend we visit in your area?
Katija: As I live between two cities, I have a few to mention! In Auckland, my favourites are The Mothership, Fitzroy Lounge Bar and Whammy Bar. In Melbourne, I’m a Northsider so for me it’s the Bendigo Hotel, Old Bar, Northcote Social Club and The Tote.
What was the last song you listened to?
Katija: I was recently introduced to an old soul/gospel song by my friend Fraser. It’s called “Nobody Knows” by Pastor T. L. Barrett and The Youth For Christ Choir. It’s absolutely beautiful.
Last, if you could be in charge of the music industry, what would you change and why?
Katija: I think the music industry has diversified so much in the past years with the help of social media and platforms such as Patreon and Bandcamp allowing artists to build their own communities. I would love to see this trend continue to grow so more incredible artists can share their music and vision with the world! Having more representation of different communities and points of view fosters connection, and the world needs more people to know that there are others just like them.
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Listen up on Spotify. See more on her IG.
Interview by Llewelyn Screen