Sophie Mars Interview
Sophie Mars is a 17-year-old musical prodigy whose journey into the world of music began as a stroke of serendipity but quickly evolved into a purposeful life pursuit. A self-taught musician, Sophie Mars delved into the realms of melody inspired by the ethereal tunes of Billie Eilish on the ukulele and the soul-stirring chords of Phoebe Bridgers on the guitar. We got to chat with the talented singer around the release of her debut single “Hate Me Too”.
- Can you share more about how your journey into music started, especially considering it began by happenstance?
I started writing music alone in my bedroom in the same way that I keep a journal. I didn't intend on anyone else hearing it. Creating the track was meant to be more of a way for me to process my emotions. But eventually I played it for some people really close to me, and I was encouraged to make a studio recording so the world could hear it. Brad was the only producer I had ever met – so I sent him a handful of songs and he suggested that I work on "Hate Me Too."
- Your debut single "Hate Me Too" is described as a brutally honest meditation about teenage life. Can you delve into the inspiration behind the lyrics and the emotions you wanted to convey?
In the song I try to convey the terrible feeling of taking responsibility for hurting someone. Accepting the fact that you’re the problem has to be one of the most difficult things to come to terms with, because it’s always easier to place blame on other people.
- How does the song reflect your personal experiences as a teenager in the current climate?
I wrote it about 90 days before we released it, so it's as close as it can get to how I'm feeling right now.
- How did working with Brad Wood shape the production and sound of "Hate Me Too"?
Going into the studio, I was imagining the song to shape up into a synth pop type beat, but his older (sorry Brad!) references brought in some more classic types of vibes that I ended up loving so much more.
- "Hate Me Too" is the first of several new songs to be released. Can you give us a glimpse into what themes we can expect in your upcoming releases?
Oh, man. I have to do my college applications first. So. many. Supplementals. I could probably make a whole album about this intense experience haha.
- What are your long-term goals as a musician?
My long-term and short-term goals are the same: to get people to dig my music while I stay true to what I want it to sound like.
- Are there specific artists or producers you aspire to collaborate with in the future?
Gracie Abrams is such a huge inspiration for me. I am always in awe of her lyrics, and how much texture her voice adds to them. It’s very admirable when an artist establishes a consistent aesthetic for their brand, and she does it beautifully.
