The pop scene better make room for Princess Fortier‘s talent, especially in 2016. We chatted with her earlier this week only to discover a deeper appreciation for her music. Check it out below:
What inspired you to become an artist?
I went to school to study Neuroscience because I was a victim of acute migraine headaches, and I wanted to find a cure. Migraines suck. Especially when you endure one for 24-48 hours coupled with temporary blindness, nausea and vomiting. I grew up loving music; singing in jazz bands, concert groups; choirs. My singing helped burn the midnight oil as I studied for classes. One day something miraculous happened. As I left my organic chemistry lab at UCLA, I felt a migraine. My lab partner drove me to my local band rehearsal in midtown Los Angeles; the agonizing pain was so bad I couldn’t see. When I arrived to rehearsal, I started singing the first song and my migraine disappeared! It was an “aha” moment. Singing was the cure I’d been looking for.
When did you know that you were finally an artist?
The day of my first video shoot. One of my scenes was at a public location. I jumped out of the car and about 30 teenage cheerleaders swirled around me and asked who I was and if I could sing for them. I sang and they started screaming frantically. They hassled me for my autograph and asked to be in my music video. The moment your expression causes someone to laugh, scream, cry, reflect or change: that’s the moment you’re an artist.
Where are you from and how does that influence you?
I am from Stockton, California, a town that strives to provide excellence for its citizens. Stockton, California makes people and I appreciate our community, diversity, and strength. I represent.
What inspires you in general?
Full self-expression ranging from laughing children, authenticity, beauty, boldness and sometimes adversity.
Who are your musical inspirations?
Sia, Katy Perry and Celine Dion.
What is your earliest memory of music?
My mom singing lullabies to me and my sisters as we drifted to sleep. I felt at home and peaceful.
Who would be your dream collaboration and why?
Sia! She’s a genius! My writing process and music is similar to hers.
Where do you see yourself musically in 15 years?
I will be an icon and my music will allow me to facilitate the end of world hunger.
What has been your most memorable recording experience?
During the recording of “Breathe,” I felt chills up and down my spine. My vocal producer inspired me to push past my mental and vocal limits. I prayed and asked God to sing for me. I think that was the first time I used my diaphragm to sing. “Breathe” will be released in March. When you hear it, you’ll know what I mean.
When did you realize the healing properties of music and how do you apply them?
I wrote a song to disseminate the hurt I felt about my relationship with my dad. After recording the song, I transformed and built steps to build a great relationship with him. When I shared the song with a friend, she felt inspired to look for her father so he could give her away at her wedding. Music is powerful.
Does your institutional knowledge ever get in the way of your music creativity?
Oh, yes! When I write, I have to remember it’s not an English paper. Everything doesn’t need a million words, transitional sentences, correct grammar or fancy language to get the point across. It’s not easy when your mom is an English teacher!
Outside of music, what else do you enjoy?
I love eating exotic foods! I’m a foodie to the max. I also enjoy traveling to new places and doing adventurous things like bungee jumping.
How does being fluent in more than one language impact your approach to music?
It expands my opportunities. I have no problem learning a song in any language because my mind is open to singing any sound. I performed in Japan recently and sang in Japanese! Because I’m confident in speaking a completely foreign language, I can mimic any sound I can hear (with the exception of Mongolian throat singing).
What do you want people to know about Princess Fortier?
She’s here and here to stay. She will move, touch, inspire and change the world.
How does seeing the world impact your music?
Traveling is the best thing you can do to invest in yourself because it’s better than any form of education. It expands your horizons firsthand; it allows you to see things from different perspectives. Seeing the world will show you, that despite differences in countries, we are all the same.
What makes you a Stereo Champion?
I dream big and I’m relentless with my commitment to making my dreams come true. I want to encourage my listeners to do the same.
This is awesome!!! Awesome Awesome!!!!! I love the comments that you made about the transformational nature of music! Wonderful! Can’t wait to hear more music from Princess! Great article!