Josephine Relli is a recording artist, model and actor. She released her debut album “Miscellaneous” in 2016 and has continued to churn out an eclectic array of music ever since. She attended the International Modeling and Talent Association (IMTA) and has participated in high-end events with the likes of the mega-brand Macy’s. And she made her onscreen debut in Chloë Sevigny’s short film, “Carmen.” Josephine is now writing and producing her own music as she fine-tunes her unique sound. She prides herself on intentionally avoiding genres, and is as equally at ease in the hip-hop and R&B worlds as she is in alternative or pop space. Josephine’s new duology album “Slow Down/Falling” is available on all major platforms.
What is your earliest memory of music? And, how did you get started in music?
My earliest memory of music would have to be back when I was anywhere from 2 to 5 years old. I distinctly remember hearing my dad blasting AC/DC throughout the house. I'm pretty sure back then I complained to him about turning it down. From then on I have many memories of listening to music and singing along, but I didn't really start with music myself until around age 13 or 14 when I got the opportunity to write an album with my music coach. From then on I've just been exploring, expanding, and my passion has kept on growing.
What was the first song you ever wrote? What or who inspired you to start writing music? I can't really remember the very first song I ever wrote, but I know my song "Hold The Light," which I released, was one of my first 5. I never really experimented with songwriting until the chance to create something arose. My music coach at the time first inspired me, and from then on I've found my inspiration everywhere.
Please take a minute to view the video teaser of "Falling" from Josephine's latest Duology Album release Slow Down/Falling.
Do you play any instruments? If yes tell us about it. If not, do you work with a band or studio musicians? Do you produce your tracks or work with a producer?
I like to say I dabble in many instruments and can manage, but I am first and foremost a singer – that being said, the instruments I dabble in are piano, guitar, and some bass and drums. I do my music. My main studio band is back in Portland, but I also continue to meet more and more talented musicians. I've done a mix of both, but mainly I produce my own songs or collaborate with producers.
What is your favorite part about being an artist (performing, recording, writing, playing)?
Getting to make a career out of a love for something, which I am very grateful for because I know not everyone is able to have that. Of course, I enjoy all the aspects of it, from the writing to the performing, but mainly with my career, I just love that I'm able to love it.
Do you have any advice for young women pursuing music?
To stay authentically you, which goes for anyone trying to pursue music. There are many instances where people will try and find a label to describe you, assign you one, or tell you that you need one. But I disagree. If you are doing what you love, making what you love, and it speaks true to you, it doesn't matter if it's classifiable or not. Something else I'd recommend is working to build your skill set. There are many wonderful people in this industry – producers, engineers, songwriters – but it doesn't hurt to pick up those skills yourself in order to be self-sufficient.
For readers who have never heard your music, can you suggest one or two songs to start with?
I'd have to suggest my latest Duology Album release "Slow Down/Falling." It has two songs on it, "Slow Down" and "Falling" (I know – fairly obvious), and it being my most recent release, it really showcases where I'm at as an artist right now. Hope you enjoy!
Where can fans access your music?
m on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon Music, Soundcloud, etc. My website has all those links on them. But also, here's my iTunes link.
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