Olivia Rees is a multi-talented Canadian singer/songwriter based in Toronto. She plays both piano and guitar, which she taught herself to do at only 12 years of age. A passionate artist, her music showcases her powerful voice combined with the lyrical depth of her songs. Although based in Toronto, she has performed in England & Dubai, and was showcased at the Just For Laughs festival in Montreal.
Where are you based?
Toronto, Canada
How long have you been making music?
All my life! I wrote my first song when I was 8 years old.
What genre would you consider your music to be?
I would say my music is a range of Pop/RnB.
What inspired you to pursue a career in music?
I believe being an artist is what I was meant to contribute to the world. There is nothing like being able to connect with people over shared experiences and feelings and share that through the power of music. Music connects people in ways that simple conversations can’t, and doing that through singing/writing/playing instruments/performing combines all my passions.
What are your biggest musical influences?
I love the energy of artists like Dua Lipa & Lady Gaga, and I also really connect to the depth of the lyrics of musicians like Sia & Adele. Honestly, I’m inspired by different traits from a number of different artists.
Are you signed to a label or are you an independent artist?
Right now, I’m an independent artist.
What have been the biggest challenges in your music career?
I would say finding the best way to be able to share my music with the world. The music itself comes to naturally to me that that has never been a struggle. I’m so passionate about giving others a place to be able to hear my music and know they are not alone, that other people have been where they are and know what that feeling’s like. The highs and lows – the best moments of your life and the darkest ones too.
How many songs or albums have you released to date?
Ive released 15 songs, including 1 album, and have many more on the way!
Can you tell us a few things about your latest release?
Kiss Kiss is a bad-ass, empowering track about unleashing your inner warrior! People want things to look pretty and not cause problems, but the world isn’t pretty, and you have every right to fight back when someone tries to break you. Take back the power that was stolen from you. There are many different kinds of abuse, & I wrote this track because I wanted other survivors to know that they DO have the power to take back their lives.
Any plans for new music or upcoming projects we should know about?
I always have new music in the works, and new tracks are on their way! I will also be performing at the “Sing For Mental Health” fundraiser on June 29th, would love to share some of my music live with you as well!