What is your earliest memory related to music? Did you dream of becoming a musician as a child?
My earliest memory is traveling with my mom and dad from Riga to Dikļi - we always sang something in Ukrainian in the car, or I would listen to my favorite tapes on my Sharp tape recorder. From a quite young age, I dreamed of being on stage, but what exactly I would do there was the biggest question. That’s why my life involved endless searches for what I truly enjoyed and excelled at on stage. Initially, it was piano and classical music, which I did quite well, if not more, but it didn’t fully match my temperament. Then came theater, which for some reason seemed too simplistic as an art form. Eventually, I found my true calling in popular music.
What do you consider more important in a song – the lyrics or the melody, and why?
When I write songs alone at the piano, the lyrics are the most important because they provide the initial conceptual impulse that I then develop musically. At first, it’s crucial for me to understand what the song will be about, and then everything else can follow. When we write songs for "Varslaff 'n' Edwolf" in the recording studio with music producers, it’s different. Then the musical foundation comes first, followed by the lyrics.
What kind of music resonates with you the most? Are there specific genres, artists, or albums that are particularly special to you and why?
I’m drawn to vibrant music and dynamic artists, regardless of style or genre - Lady Gaga, Freddie Mercury, Beyoncé, Aretha Franklin, Rosalía, The Weeknd, Michael Jackson, Sam Smith, George Michael… Those who have a presence and captivate with their entire being, not just their music. My musical taste has evolved significantly over time; I’m constantly seeking new sources of inspiration and love delving deeply into the work of artists who resonate with me.
How did you come up with the idea for the song “Pupiņu zupiņa” and was there a special reason you chose bean soup as the theme for the song?
Ha! It all started with my mom’s bean soup, which I brought to the recording studio and shared with music producers and co-writers Edgar Vilcāns and Armands Varslavāns. Eating the soup while listening to Benny Benassi’s “Satisfaction” inspired the song “Pupiņu zupiņa.”
Watch “Pupiņu zupiņa" video
The song "Cat’s Song" not only won the hearts of Latvian listeners but also attracted fans abroad. Do you think participating in Supernova opened up new musical horizons for you? How did this experience change or perhaps further inspire your future musical path?
The entire creative team is still amazed and thrilled by the immense resonance and love that “The Cat’s Song” has brought. It started from the very first moments when LTV announced the Supernova semifinalists and published the selected songs on YouTube. Countless excited reaction videos, thousands of comments, and letters from fans all over the world. And it continues to this day, both virtually and at concerts, where the whole audience dances “The Cat’s Dance” with me and then lines up for photos and autographs. I had never experienced anything like this before - it’s such immense energy and love that truly inspires me to create something special again. After “The Cat’s Song” story at Supernova, many new opportunities opened up, and many doors that were previously closed are now wide open.
Watch “The Cat’s Song” video and join “The Cat’s Dance”
Can you share your upcoming plans in music? Are you preparing to release a new single or album, or planning any concerts? And what about Supernova 2025 — can we expect you to participate?
I’m currently working on two exciting projects. One is the “Latvian Retro” program, with the first messenger being a modern version of the legendary “Noktirnes.” In this program, Katrīna Gupalo is joined by the Disco Brothers, and together we’re giving new life to the most delicious Latvian retro hits with an eternally relevant disco sound. The other is my original music project, which currently includes quite a few new songs I can’t wait to introduce to my listeners. This might also result in a mini-album. Regarding Supernova - if there’s a song that we feel can make it into the top 3 of Eurovision, we’ll apply. Otherwise, it’s not worth it. We aim only for victory!
How do you view the role of social media in a musician's career today? Do you feel pressured to be active on social platforms?
Certainly. On one hand, it takes away time that could be dedicated to art and self-growth. It also divides the audience's attention at concerts because, instead of immersing in the ocean of music and emotions, there’s a constant stream of filming. On the other hand, it gives artists a chance to be closer to their audience than ever before.
If you weren’t a musician, what profession might you have chosen and why?
I could definitely be a great music manager, but I’m not sure if I’d want that. I have some natural talent for it, but for some reason, management work really gets on my nerves. I could also be a wonderful homemaker, but only for a while, as I doubt I could stay home for long. If I were born in the U.S., I might have become an actress. But in Latvia, I enjoy being an event host. I discovered this ability recently and thoroughly enjoy it!
What energizes you the most both in everyday life and in your creative work? How do you like to spend your free time?
I love love. What energizes me the most is the love from my audience at concerts and the love I receive at home. That’s the greatest energy that can move mountains. On weekends, I enjoy traveling, either far away or just somewhere nearby by car.
What kind of entertainment events do you like to attend?
Danceable ones.
Do you have a life motto or quote that you live by?
“Get yourself together!”
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians who dream of a career in music? What is the best advice you could offer to succeed in this industry?
A career in music is not only exciting but also full of challenges. If you really, REALLY want it - everything will fall into place. If you have doubts, it’s better to keep music as a hobby. Not only talent but also immense work, love, and most importantly - persistence, are, in my opinion, the foundation of any success story.
