We are thrilled to bring you this exclusive interview with the multi-talented Angelica Artifex. Her music, deeply rooted in her Cuban heritage, showcases a unique blend of traditional rhythms, Spanish lyrics, and evocative instrumentation. Angelica’s journey from Cuba to Los Angeles is marked by her relentless pursuit of musical ambitions and artistic growth.
In this interview, Angelica opens up about the challenges she has faced, particularly the transition to managing her career independently. She highlights the importance of self-sufficiency and the growth that comes from overcoming obstacles. Angelica also shares how balancing her time between the United States and Europe influences her creative process, with the tranquil pace of Spain and Sweden fostering introspection, while the dynamic energy of Los Angeles inspires vibrant compositions.
Angelica discusses how her experiences in modeling, acting, and TV hosting have enriched her music career, building resilience and confidence. She also reveals exciting details about her upcoming projects and collaborations, promising fans a fusion of Caribbean vibes and innovative sounds. Join us as we dive into the world of Angelica Artifex and explore her inspiring creative journey.
Your new single “Out in the Wild” is an exciting blend of Caribbean rhythms and dreamy dance vibes. Can you tell us more about the inspiration behind this track?
The inspiration behind my new single comes from my Caribbean roots. I’ve always loved the vibrant tunes from the Caribbean, particularly the dembow style that’s popular right now. I wanted to create something along those lines but with a touch of sophistication. Working with producer LUGO, we developed a fusion that combines Caribbean rhythms. Interestingly, Greek and Middle Eastern melodies appeared by accident during the process, which is fascinating. It amazes me how all these influences and references came together in the song “Out in the Wild.” Diversity is divine, and this track is a celebration of that blend.
You mentioned that “Out in the Wild” is one of the closest songs to your heart. What personal experiences did you draw from while creating this song?
I drew from my experiences in relationships, particularly the dynamics of partnerships that have reached their expiration date. The song reflects the outcome of a breakup and the beginning of a new chapter. It symbolizes a fresh wind that carries me toward new adventures, embracing the journey alone. It’s about all the possibilities and opportunities that lie ahead. Spending more time with myself has been golden; I’ve learned so much more about who I am compared to when I was in relationships that didn’t work. This song is a celebration of self-discovery and the freedom that comes with it.
“Out in the Wild” conveys themes of liberation and self-discovery. How did these themes shape the writing and production process of “Out in the Wild”?
The themes of liberation and self-discovery were central to both the writing and production process of “Out in the Wild.” I had so many emotions inside that needed to get out, and the track reflects the intense feelings I had to release before they exploded inside of me. One day, I called Lugo and said, “I want to do something along the lines of dembow, with a hard beat and drum, smooth but powerful vocals—something sophisticated and classy but hard.” Lugo was immediately on board, and we started creating the track.
Once we had the foundation, we invited Celeste Williams to write with us, and she played a crucial role in capturing the smooth melodies of the song. We aimed to reflect the raw emotions of vulnerability and the edge I felt at that moment from my experiences, transitioning the lyrics to convey the freedom and liberation I felt after a breakup. Musically, we experimented with diverse sounds and unexpected melodies to evoke a sense of exploration and self-discovery, resulting in a track that embodies both the intensity of emotional release and the thrill of newfound freedom.
Your music combines Caribbean rhythms with urban pop, creating a distinctive sound. How has your multicultural background influenced your musical style?
My multicultural background, growing up in Sweden surrounded by diverse cultures and with parents from Cuba and Finland, has profoundly influenced my musical style. This upbringing exposed me to a variety of rhythms, melodies, and musical expressions. It’s this blend of cultural influences that shapes my music, allowing me to create a unique fusion that resonates with a global audience. Each element adds a layer of richness and diversity to my sound, reflecting the diversity of my Cuban-Finnish heritage.
Growing up, you traveled frequently between Sweden and Cuba. How did these experiences shape your musical palette and artistry?
Traveling between Sweden, Cuba, and Finland has deeply shaped both my musical palette and my artistry. These experiences aren’t just influences on my music; they are integral to who I am.
Living in neighborhoods that are polar opposites culturally has been a profound learning experience. It’s taught me to navigate and appreciate the richness of diverse cultures. I’m immensely grateful for these experiences, as they have uniquely shaped my artistry. They’ve inspired me to blend elements from these distinct cultures into a cohesive musical expression that reflects both the challenges and the beauty of cultural diversity.
What was it like to perform at Expo Milan, and how did that experience impact your decision to pursue a singing career in Los Angeles?
Performing at Expo Milan was an incredible experience. I was invited to sing with the San Marino Philharmonic Orchestra, and I performed “The Best” by Tina Turner. It was a thrilling moment because I hadn’t had the chance to rehearse with the orchestra beforehand, so I had to trust my instincts and give it my all on stage. Despite the pressure, I had an amazing time performing, and the energy of the audience was unforgettable.
After the performance, I realized how much joy and fulfillment I found in being on stage and performing. It was a pivotal moment that reignited my passion for pursuing a singing career. I decided that it was time to take the leap and head towards Los Angeles, where I could further pursue my musical ambitions and continue to grow as an artist.
Your music often reflects your Cuban roots. How do you incorporate elements of your heritage into your work?
My Cuban roots are a fundamental part of my musical identity, influencing both the rhythms and melodies that define my sound. I incorporate elements of my heritage in several ways. Firstly, I draw inspiration from traditional Cuban music styles such as son, salsa, and Afro-Cuban rhythms, infusing them into my compositions. Secondly, I integrate Spanish lyrics and vocal inflections that reflect the warmth and passion inherent in Cuban culture. Lastly, I use instrumentation and arrangements that evoke the vibrant and lively atmosphere of Cuba, creating a musical tapestry that pays homage to my roots while resonating with diverse audiences worldwide.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your career, and how have you overcome them?
I’ve faced numerous challenges throughout my career, and I often approach them with a mindset of forgetting, forgiving, and moving forward to the next endeavor. One of the significant challenges I’m currently tackling is the transition to handling everything myself. Previously, I had a supportive team to streamline processes, but now I’m adapting to a new reality of managing tasks independently.
While it’s a learning curve, I’m embracing the opportunity. I have supportive individuals offering advice and encouragement from various quarters, which is invaluable. Being part of a generation where self-sufficiency is crucial, I find satisfaction in overcoming obstacles and achieving milestones largely on my own. It’s a challenge I’m rising to with enthusiasm and pride.
In addition to your music career, you’ve also made a name for yourself in modeling, acting, and TV hosting. How do these different creative outlets influence each other in your work?
Branching into modeling, acting, and TV hosting alongside my music career has been incredibly enriching. These diverse creative outlets have helped me develop resilience and confidence, fostering a thicker skin and teaching me to assert myself as a businesswoman. Despite having agents for bookings, I’ve learned the importance of advocating for myself and ensuring my best interests are prioritized.
Each of these careers demands discipline and a spark of charisma to carve out a distinct identity. Creativity and artistry sustain all these pursuits, intertwining seamlessly. Whether I’m performing on stage, embodying a character on screen, or presenting on TV, they all require a commitment to creativity and a drive to make a lasting impression. These experiences have collectively shaped me and contributed to my multifaceted career journey.
You mentioned that you divide your time between the United States and Europe. How do these different environments influence your creative process?
My creative process varies depending on where I am. In Spain or Sweden, the pace feels normal, allowing ample time for reflection and creativity in the tranquil environments. This atmosphere
encourages a more introspective and deliberate approach to music creation. On the other hand, in major cities like Los Angeles, specifically, time seems to fly by at a rapid pace, almost as if I wish I had wings to keep up with its speed. The dynamic and fast-paced energy of LA inspires more upbeat and vibrant compositions. It’s a good balance.
Can you share any details about your upcoming projects or collaborations? What can fans expect from you shortly?
I have exciting projects in the pipeline! I’ll be releasing a new single around the end of September, which is one of my personal favorites. It features a chill vibe infused with Caribbean tunes—I can’t wait to share it with you all! Additionally, I’m currently collaborating with incredibly talented artists on new music. While I can’t announce details just yet, I’m thrilled about these collaborations and hope to share more with you very soon. Stay tuned for more updates and music coming your way!
