Getting To Know: Izzy Spears

1. "Serena" explores the chase of a drug-induced high and its connection to the pursuit of the American Dream. How did you conceptualize this unique thematic link, and what inspired the choice of Serena as the representation of the Miss American Dream in the narrative?

The idea behind the video came pretty naturally. The original chorus was “drug dealer” but I felt it was too on the nose so I started to think of girl names with the same syllables and just as impactful. I also have a thing for songs named after a person. Loads of my classic favorites.

2. The music video for "Serena" is described as a soul-stirring visual that follows you crawling through mud and grime in pursuit of Serena. Can you elaborate on the symbolism and creative decisions behind the video, and how it enhances the storytelling aspect of the song?

The storyline is basically the chase and where you could end up chasing after the wrong things. I was chasing her in the video and when I finally got close I ended up in what I imagined to be her lair or a personal hell. The idea is like how desperate are you to get to the prize and how low are you willing to sink for it.

3. Your upcoming EP, M*A*D, is set to release on December 15th. How does this project build upon the themes introduced in "Serena," and what can listeners expect from the EP in terms of its exploration of creativity and the unconventional lens through which you examine the American Dream?

Serena plays a big role on the EP. Serena represents the desire of man and the chase to get to the dream, whatever that may be. Every song on the EP has its own personality and ultimately tells the story of a journey to achieve that dream. Serena is just a part of the overall story. Listen to find out.

4. "Serena" delves into the universal struggle between the highs and withdrawals of various pleasures. How does the sonic landscape of the single, including the mesmerizing bassline and seductive melody, contribute to capturing the essence of obsession with the chase but never reaching fulfillment?

Well I feel the sonic landscape is pretty obvious. Throughout the beginning of the song it's really lauring and seductive which represents the urge and desire and then the breakdown is the high. That's why the breakdown part is so short cause the high never lasts that long does it? But the chase is forever.

5. Your debut EP, Monstar, received acclaim and landed placements on notable playlists. How has your journey since then, including the debut European and U.S. tour with Yves Tumor and performances at venues like Boiler Room, influenced your approach to music and the distinctive space you're carving in the cultural landscape?

Touring with Yves Tumor really showed me how impactful real instruments are and the different reaction the crowd gives with a band vs just a backing track. Yves has been a big inspiration, even before we met. Most of my time since Monstar has been on the road with Yves, so I've soaked up a lot of cultural and music ideals traveling the world and working closely with him. He even styled the Serena music video.

6. You draw inspiration from diverse musical influences like Andre 3000, Lauryn Hill, and Funkadelics. How do these influences shape your bold and fearless energy in tracks like "Serena," and how do you see your commitment to challenging societal norms reflected in your music and artistic expression?

I feel like with all these artists listed there was a certain sense of vulnerability that is very rare in music, especially today. I feel like artists today are always consumed with flexing and being relatable instead of talking about their truth, as gay as that sounds. Feel like none of these artists have ever been afraid to flaunt their individuality and they shamelessly are themselves in a world where it hasn't always been acceptable to be outside the box.