Non-binary rock singer, Mx.iTerra has been growing their discography and online footprint consistently over the past few years and has moved from “getting their feet wet in the music scene” to being a bold, inspiring and explosive presence in the queer music movement. With a passion for diving into the honest and ugly truth of emotions, they hope to deliver music and a song for everyone. The Q is proud to have Mx.iTerra as a network member and is excited to put some light on them in our artist spotlight series.
Let’s get to know…Mx.iTerra
What first got you into music?
When I was little, the only time I felt safe and whole was when I was singing. I started making up my own songs and doing karaoke to my favorites on old cassette tapes. Singing was the one thing that I felt like I didn’t screw up, it was my safe space.
Are you from a musical or artistic family?
My family isn’t particularly, however my late Great Aunt was quite the music lover!
Who are the artists that inspired you to make music?
Initially, it was the Spice Girls! But as my love and need for music grew, more and more inspirations came forth. Fall Out Boy, Within Temptation, Green Day, Linkin Park, just to name a few!
How would you describe the music that you typically create?
Overcoming internal adversity is a major theme…so dark and thoughtful?
How would you describe your creative process and how you approach?
Most of the time with my creative process, I will randomly think of a word/phrase and I’ll be like…”Oh my god, I need to write that down for something”. After that sometimes I go into a full on writing session (if the words/melodies are there), or I come back to it a few days/weeks later and get to it.
Typically though, my songs are triggered by something substantial in my life that I am going through or that someone I love is going through (good or bad).
Who would be your dream artists to collaborate with?
I’m such a dork, but Fall Out Boy…hands down.
Has your music style changed much since you first started creating music?
Most definitely! The first 2 tracks I released on Spotify (which are no longer available) were highly experimental. The first song Shaking Down Sunset had good structure…but lacked almost everything else I wanted in it production wise and stylistically. I’m not a frilly singer by any means, I like to be raw. So that just was ill suited. My second experimental track, Black Hole was a higher production value, but still completely missed my mark.
It wasn’t until I met with my dear friend and composer Artem and wrote Time that I started to really feel authentic and a breakthrough.
If you could go open a show for any artist who would it be?
I am going to hold strong to Fall Out Boy, they have been pivotal in my growth over the past three years, whether they know it or not (probably not, but that’s ok).
What is one message you would give to your fans?
I would say, “Don’t ever give up on yourself”.
Do you sing in the shower? What songs?
Yes! Not so much lately, but anything by Enya or Loreena McKennitt feels like it absolutely jams in the shower!
What do you get up to when you’re not making music?
I am a talent manager for a small indie game company called Lunar Tale Games! We’re working on our first game release (Phantom Hysteria) that is hopefully to be released later this year!
How do you feel the Internet has impacted the music business?
The internet has made the music business far more accessible. When I was growing up, even what I have done thus far seemed impossible!
What is your least favorite thing about making music?
Definitely when I have writers block, be it for lyrics or a melody!
What is it about music that makes you feel passionate?
It’s this undeniable feeling that I am completing myself. It just feels right when I am singing and making music; as if my life finally makes sense. Just like a Formula One driver who only truly feels present when they’re calculating their maneuvers on the track….it just feels like home!
Which famous musicians do you admire?
My absolute favorites vocally are Patrick Stump, Chester Bennington, Sarah Brightman, Joan Jett, Adam Gontier, James Hetfield, and Billie Joe Armstrong. However I have a countless list of musicians that deeply inspire me, this is just in one facet.
What is the best advice you’ve been given?
Never give up has been a ringing anthem in my mind. I’ve been told this by friends and family for years, not just for my music…but for myself!
Do you follow a process or ritual before a performance to get rid of nerves or performance anxiety?
Seems kind of counter intuitive, but I scream and shake my body out. I store a lot of chaotic energy in these limbs, so it’s best that I get it out beforehand!
What advice would you give to someone staring out in music?
Find what speaks to YOU! Don’t let anyone else dictate what you want to make and how you want to sound.
What does the next year look like for you?
2022 is busy! I am working on my 2nd album this year, and I am also trying to get myself and my husband to California for both of our careers. So very thankful to be at this point and to keep pushing.
If you were stranded on an island and could only have one album with you, which one would it be and why?
This is the toughest question, but if I need to feel something and let emotions out— Fall Out Boy’s Infinity On High.