When the KingQueen band takes the stage, the crowd knows they’re in for a great time. Today Ina joins us to discuss their new single ‘Roller Coaster’, their inspirations what we can expect from them in the future! Make sure to check out our interview below:
We are happy to have you today. Tell us about your fall season so far! What have you guys been up to?
With the lockdown and everything, I’ve just focused on finishing up mixing songs that were recorded with the band before the lockdown that started in March. And of course, editing and releasing the music video for “Roller Coaster”
Can you share more with our readers about your latest release “Roller Coaster”? What inspired the single?
I write a lot in my car while driving. Melodies and words pop up and this one I started and finished writing on my way back to LA from a gig in Vegas. It was honestly a mix of emotions not towards one person but just to people in general. It’s not like I wrote it as a breakup song to a singular person it was more of my thoughts on how some people just can’t be clear but will hit you up whenever they feel like or when they are drunk haha. I guess we all have been in that situation so it’s a tribute to us all that have felt a bit used and not given the attention we actually deserve. Or the answers we needed in the moment. So yeah it’s about heartbreak but not like a deep and sad kind of heartbreak, more like “ehhhh this sucks and you’re messing with my mind” kind of thing.
How did the band first get started?
Wow. So KQ have had so many different band members throughout the years. But the band itself started in 2011 after I left a record deal with Universal as a pop solo artist. I was craving the pop punk rock I was born to perform. So I became independent and have followed my heart ever since.
How did you all decide on the band name KingQueen?
KingQueen actually was my solo artist name and nick name. After a long night out with my drag queens I was named KingQueen and I kept it and performed under it and I love it and I love what it represents and it’s truly me and the sound of the craft we perform.
How would you describe your sound to someone who just listened to your music for the first time?
Energetic, powerful, in your face and inviting at the same time. It’s a mix of the past and the future.
How has these past few months of quarantine affected you all creatively?
Creatively it’s actually been a blessing. I’m obviously not happy about this pandemic and I miss performing live sooooo much! But it’s given me the time I’ve begged for these past years to just sit down and tune into the mixing and production part. Truly work through the songs. And I love it. Now we have tons of music coming out that I’m truly proud of since I got to work through it with no distractions.
What advice do you have for anyone interested in starting their own band?
Do it. It’s not easy! It’s a relationship, learn when to let go and when to give. Some people will stay some people with go and that’s the heartbreak of music and bands but don’t worry, those who are meant to go all the way will be there. And don’t take it all personally! Keep doing you. Keep going!
How do you get pumped up before a big event?
Ohhhh man. It’s like so exciting I get so nervous and excited at the same time it’s like a ball of energy so honestly, I do nothing all day I’m lame. I am quiet and I just prepare mentally and then as soon as my feet touch the stage it’s like lighting comes through my body and it’s showtime. It’s where I feel like life happens. Life is that stage, the people, the band, the music and the lights. I love it!
Biggest lesson learned in your career so far?
There are so many. But I think the most important one is to let go of all the noise. The times I didn’t quite enjoy the stage as much was when I knew someone from the industry that was important was watching and I regret that! I let it cloud myself and it kind of ruined my moment of fun because I was thinking to impress rather than just do what I always do. So I think that’s a big lesson because it’s important to connect and enjoy and do your thing every time. Industry people are just people and opinions. In the end of the day what matters is how you feel about yourself.
Are you currently working on any special projects?
Yesssss!! Releasing a single every 2 months, both with the band KingQueen and solo as Ina Of KingQueen. I do solo stuff for different genres or song I don’t think fit to perform with the band and then collaborate with other artists too. The next one is “Bad Kids” with She and Bandits and Blake English. Super excited for you all to hear!
Thank you for speaking with us! For our final question, is there anything else you would like to add?