Rock-Pop Singer IRIS Opens Up About Her Latest Song, ‘Crazy’ and More!

Photo Credit- Steven Tayler

On May 15th, the singer-songwriter Iris released her latest music video for her debut single, “Crazy.” Produced by Grammy® Award-Winning Malay (Frank Ocean & John Legend) and Taylor Johnson, “Crazy” was featured on Netflix’s Santa Clarita Diet Season 3 premiere, starring Drew Barrymore.

Channeling Stevie Nicks, Rock/Pop’s newest weapon, Iris, is ready to shake up 2019. Raised in New Jersey with an Icelandic heritage, this prolific singer and songwriter pens music that strikes listeners in the heart – specifically ones going through heartbreak, and ones going through the journey of finding happiness. Citing Parkinson’s Disease, equality, and positivity as some of her most impassioned causes, Iris strives to enlighten and strengthen each and every listener through positive messages and heart-wrenching lyrics.

Connect With Iris Here:

www.instagram.com/iris

www.twitter.com/penny_lane915

Learn more about Iris in the following All Access interview:

Thanks for your time today! Where does this interview find you?

I’m just at home hanging with my dogs, about to go drop off some film to be developed for my next music video!

Now that we are into the 6th month of the new year, how has 2019 been treating you so far? What are some goals that you have for yourself this year? How close are you to reaching them?

2019 has been great so far. I’ve finished up some records, shot a couple of music videos (one is out now for my song, “Crazy” and one is in process of being edited). I’m still recording and writing as of now but definitely have a sound shaped for my project. I’m doing my first show on June 23 at the Bootleg opening for KidEyes. I’m just keeping it moving!

Growing up, how important was music in your life? Can you recall the moment when you decided that you wanted to be a musician? Was it an easy or difficult choice to make?

Music has always been a big part of my life. My dad was always playing music in the house and we’d take drives and listen to his favorite bands from Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd to Van Halen. I joined the choirs in my school, did talent shows and decided at a young age that singing/music is what I wanted to do with my life. It was an easy choice to make, as it always brought me joy and a sense of completion. I love connecting with people as well, and I truly believe that music brings every kind of person together, no matter what beliefs you have, and I think that is beautiful.

Was there ever a time when you thought about doing something else? If you weren’t a musician today, what else could you see yourself doing? Would you be as fulfilled in life?

I never really wanted to do anything else with my life. I always wanted to perform, sing and just be a part of the music industry. I definitely have other interests, but as far as doing any of those things professionally, those would be something I would look into after I accomplish my musical goals. I love fashion and interior design, but I only do those as hobbies.

What has been the biggest surprise so far about making music your career? What has been an unexpected or welcome challenge to it all?

I always knew it never happens overnight and that you have to constantly work super hard to get to where you’re going. Even when I had a record deal, I used to think that’s all you needed to “make it”, but that was just where the work began. There’s really no right or wrong way to do things. You just have to stick to what you believe in and not expect other people to do it for you. Having a record deal vs. not having one now is basically the same thing except now I don’t have to answer to anyone but myself and what I want to do. I don’t have anyone saying yes or no to me. It’s literally up to me to make it happen.

Congratulations on recently released your debut single, “Crazy”! What was the inspiration for it? How would you say that it introduces people to you and the kind of music that you are going to put out in the future?

Thank you so much!  “Crazy” is a song about how love doesn’t make sense. The thoughts that consume you and the things that you do seem out of character, but that’s what love can make you do. I would say that this song is a good introduction to myself and the kind of music I will release, but every song I write is truly unique and expresses a different part of myself.

How was it working with your producer Malay on “Crazy”?

Malay is one of the most talented people I’ve ever met. He really understands how to help artists find their own unique sound. He is very easy going, and he really pushes you to be the best that you can be.

What was it like making the music video for “Crazy”? How creatively involved with the whole process were you?

It was crazy, haha! I worked with my best friends from back home in NJ for the creation of the video. I had an idea that I wanted to shoot in Asbury Park at the Grande Arcade, which is right on the beach. It’s a really beautiful space and AP always held a special place in my heart. It’s kind of where I got my start as a singer – doing shows at the Stone Pony and at The Saint. It was in the middle of winter and the Polar Vortex hit the tri-state area. It was -15 degrees Fahrenheit when we shot the video. I was fighting off looking like I was freezing to death, but I still had an amazing time shooting it.

Do you plan on releasing more new music soon and a full collection of new songs?

Yes! In fact, my next single will be releasing on 6/21, so make sure to follow me on Instagram @iris for updates!

Where can people see you perform live next? What has been an ideal show of yours in the past?

I’m doing my first show here in LA June 23rd at the Bootleg! I’m opening for KidEyes. I’m super excited. Check out my Instagram for the flyer as I will post all updates on there.

How do you think you have grown as a musician since you first started singing and writing songs?

I think we all grow with our experiences. The more you experience and the people you encounter will help you find more things to write about.

What has it been like keeping up with your social media accounts and all of the different platforms? Is it hard to stay up to date on it all? What would you say is your favorite way to connect with your fans now?

Sometimes it’s hard because I don’t want to be on my phone all the time, but I do want to make it a point to connect to everyone as best as I can.  I like to use Instagram and Twitter for the most part.

Who are some of your favorite artists or rather, what musicians have continued to inspire you and your music? Who would you absolutely love to work with in the future?

Some of my inspirations include Stevie Nicks, John Mayer, Alicia Keys, and Amy Winehouse. I’d love to work with John Mayer someday, along with Stevie Nicks, Alicia Keys, Tame Impala, Empire of the Sun, and Zayn.

Photo Credit- Steven Taylor

If you had an unlimited budget and your schedule was free, what would your dream music video look like?

My family is from Iceland on my mom’s side and I’ve always wanted to shoot a music video there. I really want to incorporate things that are true to me and that I love in my videos. That’s definitely on my bucket list of places to shoot.

What was it like hearing “Crazy” on Santa Clarita Diet on Netflix? Were you a fan of the show before? Where else would you love to hear a song of yours on? 

I thought it was awesome. I was super excited to be a part of such an amazing show. I’m really sad that they canceled it because I was a fan of it even before they chose my song to be a part of it. I want my music everywhere haha, so it would be an honor to be a part of anyone’s projects. I’m all about supporting everyone in the arts.

At the end of the day, what do you hope people take away from your music?

I just want people to connect to something, whether it’s the lyrics or the music. Just something that you can vibe to and be taken to another place for 3-5 minutes.

Would you like to share anything else with our readers about your music?

There’s more coming and to please keep listening! I love you guys! Thanks for riding this wave with me. <3 I hope to see you at a show!