Monthly Archives: January 2015

Think Before You Type Interviews Roxie Bardo

This photo is owned by Roxie Bardo.

This photo is owned by Roxie Bardo.

We caught up with singer-songwriter Roxie Bardo. We chatted about her music, songwriting process, and taking the time to be kind.

TBYT: You’ve been performing since a really young age. How did you get your start?

Roxie: When I was very young I’d put on shows in my front yard. I would perform songs from Brittney Spears and Mariah Carey for my family. When I reached middle school I began attending a performing arts school that really allowed me to branch out performance wise.

We did musicals mostly but it was a crucial time in my life with regard to setting my career choice in stone.

TBYT: If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

R: I would say that being artistic in any sense is difficult. When you’re young you don’t fully understand what makes you different, but you know that you don’t think the same as your peers. I would tell myself to relax and to not worry so much about what others think. To not be concerned with blending in with the crowds and to embrace my view of the world.

TBYT: Do you have a favorite inspirational quote?

R: Not particularly. At some point in my life someone told me to “Just Be.” It hit home for me. I’m such a perfectionist and those two words get me threw a lot of hardships.

TBYT: What is the one thing that keeps you from getting discouraged on a bad day?

R: I go through quite a few ups and downs in my line of work. Every time I feel hopeless I remember all that I have. All the support I have from my family, all the love I get from my fans, and all the opportunity that’s in front of me. When you find gratitude in your life you’re able to accomplish so much more because all the worry is gone. I have everything I need right now. All my future accomplishes will just be excess.

TBYT: Who are your musical influences?

R: I’m really into Die Antwoord and The Weeknd right now. They are both free, musically speaking. I’m hoping some of their bravery will seep into my subconsciousness!

TBYT: What’s your favorite part of your job?

R: I’m most joyous when I’m performing usually. Although, as of late the creative process has been very exciting. I’m just loving writing right now.

TBYT: How do you deal with negative comments online?

R: Well, as an artist I’m a sponge. I absorb everything around me or being told to me. Because of this I tend to try and stay away from any negativity or cruelty with regard to my music. If I don’t see it or hear about it, I’m good.

TBYT: Do you ever get stage fright?  If so, how do you overcome it?

R: Every time I perform I have a deep nervousness. It comes, for me, before I go on stage. While I’m immersed in the performance I’m fine. I think that’s the key – completely loosing yourself in your music and lyrics. It makes performing an elevated experience that can be quite spiritual.

TBYT: What advice do you have for young people who want to follow their dreams, but might be too afraid to try?

R: I would say that if you love it, do it. There are so many minuscule things that cloud our minds when we are making these life decisions that can drive us crazy. We think too much, all of us. When you let go a bit you end up being the best you. So let go, and if you naturally are steered towards one direction then follow it. Don’t ask questions.

TBYT: You’ve stated that you want your music to have a “deeper meaning” how does this perspective impact your songwriting process?

R: I want my music to evoke emotion. I want it to make you consider ideas and experiences you never have before. So naturally when I’m writing I’m aware of the end goal. I tend to try and surprise or shock myself. If I can make myself question my thoughts and feelings then odds are whoever is listening will feel the same way.

TBYT: Why do you think that it’s important for people to think before they type?

R: Everything you put into the world matters. Every statement, every good or bad feeling, it all can have a domino affect on not only you but those around you. My generation is very careless it seems when it comes to how we treat each other and I pray that we are able to realize that above all else we have to be kind to one another. If you only do one thing in your lifetime let it be being kind to all you come in contact with whether they deserve it or not.

5 Reminders for the New Year

2015_new_year

1. Breaking a resolution is not the end of the world

Statistics show that over 30% of people break their resolutions within the first month. This can be really discouraging and can hinder your progress. Instead you should set attainable goals and build on them throughout the year. Once you get something simple done, take it up a level and keep going until you reach the larger goal.

2. A little bit of kindness can go a really long way

Think about a time when a complete stranger made you smile. There probably was not a grand gesture involved, it may have been as simple as them smiling at you first. Impacting others’ days and even lives can be that simple. Take time to think of others this year, and watch how much you will change.

3. Words are powerful

If you haven’t noticed, one goal of TBYT is to remind others, and ourselves, of the power of words. The words that we speak have the power of life or death. The impact that they have is up to us. Our words can either help or hurt others. This is true both online and in the real world. Take the time to think before you speak and type. How will your words define you?

4. There’s only one you!

Conforming can be the easy thing to do, but that will hinder you from reaching your full potential. Everyone is unique and we forget that so often. By trying to be like someone else you’re leaving an empty space, and only can you fill that void. Each person has something incredible to add to the world just by simply being themselves. This year figure out who that is, and work on embracing it.

5. You are not alone

Not every day is easy. Sometimes bad things happen. Sometimes things that are out of our control make our lives a million times harder than we could have ever imagined. These times make it hard to even get out of bed, let alone live our lives. If this happens to you, don’t try to carry everything yourself. Sometimes the strongest thing that you can do is let others share the weight. Your friends and family are there to help you through tough times. Lean on them. Let them help carry you through. If you feel like you don’t have anyone like that in your life, we’re here, and we’re just an email away. We’re wishing you a happy and healthy 2015. Remember, to step back and enjoy the beautiful adventure that you’re on. We’re rooting for you this year!