emerging artist yanicka kastner discusses her debut single 'the city'
Interview by Mackenzie Wagner
Yanicka Kastner, a rising artist from the Chicago suburbs, is just a senior in high school, yet released her first single on November 28. "The City," inspired by Kastner's experience in Chicago at night, features dreamy vocals and entrancing instrumentals. Our writer Mackenzie Wagner had the chance to speak with Kastner regarding her new single and the future of her musical career.
Ease Up: What inspired you to write "The City?"
Yanicka Kastner: I was inspired to write the city after I was hanging out with my friend. It was one of the most exciting days ever. We went to the beach and Evanston and did a lot more. The last stop we had was Chicago at night.
EU: How did you know you wanted "The City" to be your first release?
YK: I knew I wanted it to be my first release because it was the first song where I really sat down and fully recorded. It was different from my other songs and I really enjoyed the feel of the song.
EU: What is your favorite thing about your new release?
YK: I'm most proud of the vibe that the song seems to give off. It’s very relaxed yet has a very engaging beat.
EU: Did you have an intended feeling that you wanted listeners to feel after listening to "The City?"
YK: Going into writing the song, I really didn’t have an intentional feel, it just felt extremely natural and it was a very collaborative song. Everyone there just bounced ideas off of each other and created that specific feel.
EU: Have you received any advice on becoming an artist?
YK: I’ve been told to just keep creating and putting myself out there. The main thing that seems to pop up a lot is perseverance — to just stay strong and do what I love.
EU: What are your future goals as an artist?
YK: My future goals as an artist as of right now are to go on tour and put myself out there. I’m hoping to get into songwriting programs at a couple of colleges and really enhance all of my skills in college so I can further my passion.
EU: What more from you can listeners look forward to?
YK: I would say that listeners will be able to hear a variety of different genres, moods, and vibes from me. I really like to collaborate and have a different sound with each song I create and or collaborate on.
"The City" is just Kastner's first release. Although she's balancing schoolwork with music, she plans to broaden her musical horizons and release new music with the help of new collaborators soon. For now, stream "The City" below and keep in touch with Kastner to hear her upcoming releases!