Today we’d like to introduce you to PAPRIKA.
Hi PAPRIKA, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
PAPRIKA has always been a part of me since I was a child. I grew up loving music and performance thanks to my mother. I enjoyed watching her sing and blast music while she would clean the house. When I was a pre-teen, my sister and I used to take our dad’s home video camera and she would film me singing, dancing, and lip-syncing to songs. At a young age, I felt this huge instinct to put on a show.
I have played the piano at different parts of my life. I was classically-trained when I was a girl, but I put it down for about a decade. I picked it back up in high school but mostly played for myself in my room. Playing the piano and singing has been an important, cathartic way for me to process my emotions. I’ve always been an emotional person, and diving into music felt like a safe space for me to be my true self.
When I hit my 20’s, I slowly started playing in front of others again. I jammed a bit with friends. At 25, I dated a music producer and he encouraged me to put myself out there. I started writing songs during that time, and one day, the name PAPRIKA slipped out of my mouth the way butter was fated to bread. It was the deepest knowing I’ve ever experienced in my life. I felt like, “I am PAPRIKA. That is the name of my soul.” Since then, I have been writing songs, putting out videos, recording music, putting a band together, and playing shows. I feel very lucky to have found my passion and thankful for everyone who has supported me along the way.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My biggest obstacle has been myself. I think a lot of artists would say that!
I have often been someone who felt like she needed validation or permission from others. Sometimes, I tend to tread lightly until I feel like I can put something out that is perfection. I have been self-conscious about different things during my musical journey. Sometimes, I think, “Am I too much? Is my voice good enough? Is my piano-playing good enough? Have I gained too much weight? Am I beautiful enough? Does anyone even want to hear this shit?!”
However, I know that these doubts are what make me a stronger artist. Somehow, even through all of the inner turmoil, making music and performing still feels like my destiny. It takes a lot of courage to put one’s art out there. I commend anyone who is an artist for that reason.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I make songs about being a badass sad girl, overcoming obstacles, feminism, fighting the system, and connecting as humans. The genres that influence my music are indie rock, pop, punk, neo-soul, jazz, Latin, and world music.
My music is currently evolving as I am working together with a band to play my songs. Shout out to Myles (@mylezelite) and Luis (@fuego_walk_with_me)!
Stay tuned for new song releases and upcoming shows on IG @paprika.songs
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Singing and dancing, human connection, quality time with family and friends, my cat Chica, sunny days with a breeze, good food, and exploring. It’s the simple things that make life worth living!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/paprika.songs
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paprika.songs
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paprika.songs
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@paprikasongs
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/paprika-songs/take-back-time
- Other: https://paprika-songs.bandcamp.com/track/take-back-time
