“Fantasy” is the debut single from Venice surf-indie rocker Mad Hawkes released January 24 on Parts & Labor Records.
Mad says on her new single, “‘Sometimes fantasies are better kept as just that, a fantasy. Its so fun and easy to let your mind wander to the other side of the world and back. To live in a dream state. Unfortunately actions have consequences…I wrote this about an experience I had that should have stayed in my dream world.”
https://soundcloud.com/jimmymesser/fantasy-1/s-h4Z0Y
Read Girl Gang Music’s Q&A with her in full below:
What was the moment of inspiration behind this record?
‘Fantasy’ came from a restless and frustrated time in my life. I wrote this song to try and a get a grip on what I was experiencing. Which resulted in a song with semi-dark lyrics but an upbeat fun melody. I was feelin torn, hence the juxtaposition.
What was the moment you knew you wanted to pursue music?
I was 14, and like most teens felt isolated and pissed off for no reason. I started writing songs and playing the guitar and it turned into an outlet for me. It was right around then that I decided this was what I was going to do. Nothing was as fulfilling or rewarding as writing a song and singing it.
You’ve obviously found huge songwriting success. Love love love your sound. What’s the key to good songwriting?
Ahhh thank you! For me, a good song is an honest song. I really enjoy the shock factor of being completely transparent. If you can catch people off guard or captivate them in some way, you’ve probably written something worth listening to. Also, you need to be open to getting feedback. If you’re not, your song might suck and you’ll have no idea. Nobody wants that.
What’s one thing most people don’t know about you?
“Ummm. I think everyone knows everything. I should probably work on keeping my life more private…”
What’s your one piece of advice you’d give to any young artist just getting started out there?
Work harder than everyone else. This industry is survival of the fittest, so when people start throwing in the towel around you just keep going. And ditch all those assholes that think you’re being ridiculous for pursuing your dream. Cuz you’re not.
Do you think being a woman in the music industry has affected your career? If so, how?
Totally, but in the best way. I love being a woman. The people in my immediate music family are amazing and supportive. I have never felt belittled or underestimated by them. But I have by others. I don’t think it has ever been intentional, it’s just sort of the way things are right now.
“The cool thing about being a woman in this industry is you have the power to prove people wrong constantly. And you have to in order to be taken seriously.”
I have spent a lot of time developing my voice as a female artist, so now it is easier for me to make my presence known and feel respected. Once you have gained respect in a man’s world people notice, and they listen. In some ways it might be harder for a woman in this industry, but in my opinion it’s more valuable to be a woman in this industry.
Mad Hawkes’ Girl Gang Picks
“I’ve been lovin’ K. Flay lately, she’s radddd. Also love Hinds, they are super cool girls and their music is really fun.” – Mad Hawkes
K. Flay
Hinds