Andi just released her new track “Agoraphobic,” and it is BEAUTIFUL. Prepare to be transported to a summery otherworld full of dreamy soundscapes and catchy melodies. With a keen focus on womxn’s autonomy and sexual expression, toxic masculinity and male fragility, and sharing her experience as a womxn in the LGBTQA+ community, Andi’s music is frank and vulnerable. She’s performed with David Foster, placed top 4 in CBC Spotlight’s National Competition, and toured Canada with a nine-piece band. Now she’s ready to release her first full-length project.

We caught up with her this week. 

SDTC: Describe your dream getaway scenario.

I really do love my work, so probably a well-equipped music studio on a lake with high-speed internet and family and friends nearby. Work during the day, hangs in the evening.

What is commanding a lot of attention in your life lately?

My upcoming first full-length album is taking up most of my time and is pretty much my main concern nowadays!

What have you learned about yourself in the past year?

That it’s important to take time off and that productivity does not equal worth.

What is a fun little-known fact about you?

I have a colourful side job as a professional tattoo artist/tattoo shop owner! I have a studio in rural Caledon. You can check it out at @hushclubstudio on Instagram.

What book/film/show have you connected with recently, and what about it appeals to you?

I’m always consuming media and recently I’ve been a big fan of Last Podcast on the Left. It’s a way to laugh at the monsters in the closet, to deal with the worst in the world. Also, I have a huge appreciation for comedy (a gift I do not personally have).

What’s the worst piece of advice you’ve been given?

To create what others will want to hear.

What is your motto at the moment?

A tie between “Don’t forget what you are capable of” and “Take up space.”

Any plans for the summer?

I’ve got another release coming in August which I can’t wait for! In between work days I plan on taking some time off to enjoy the Ontario summer with loved ones.

What are the qualities you like least and most about your parents?

Whoa, heavy. My parents have always supported me and are amazing models in pretty much every aspect of life. My father’s an artist, my mom’s a badass, and they’re both close friends of mine.

One thing that is hard to deal with (no matter how wonderful your support system) is the censorship of your own art in relation to other’s expectations. Sometimes family and friends can be hard in that arena, because as an artist you may be passionately driven to create things they cannot understand. You have to go forth and create what drives you on your own terms.

Rewind five years. What advice would you give yourself?

Be strong, be loud, and don’t reserve an ounce of patience for men in the music industry who are looking to exploit you and your peers.

What is the most courageous thing you’ve ever done?

Standing up for myself and other assault victims in the music industry by directly addressing predators in the Toronto scene. Acting on that zero-tolerance policy by voicing what was right, making tough conversations happen and letting go of team members and instrumentalists who wouldn’t protect their peers/be bystanders to violence.

What childhood memory makes you laugh out loud?

I dressed up as Elvis so that all the girls at school would dance with me at the Halloween dance.

What unnecessary object would you love to own?

A record player with all my favourite albums on vinyl.

What tip, technique or hack has made your life better in the past year

Listening to podcasts instead of music to keep my busy/anxious mind at bay.

What issue do you wish people took more seriously?

Violence against womxn in the music industry, and violence against the trans black community in Toronto.

What outfit makes you feel the most you?

Hair in a big bun, workin’ glasses on, weird earrings, nails lookin’ fly, wearing a loose jumper with a crop tee underneath. Big platform sneakers on my feet, drink in my hand and a smile on my face.

Who/what has surprised you lately, and how?

The Game of Thrones finale. I don’t want to talk about it (nobody does).

When you look back on your life, are you at where you thought you’d be by now? Why or why not?

Another heavy one. I thought I’d be living in Toronto! Turns out I love hiding away and making music in my Caledon studio. Besides that, I am where I thought I’d be and much more. I am grateful every day for the opportunities I’ve had (and still have), and I will always try to do more by the privileges I’ve been given.