Interview With Hannah Koivu
What’s the story behind your artist name — and does it reflect who you are today?
My artist name is my birth name Hannah Koivu. I wanted to keep my artist persona authentic and as true to who I am instead of creating a new image for myself. I think this helps me to write with honesty — without presuming to be anyone but myself.
Which song of yours means the most to you, and what inspired it?
My most recent single “Chemicals” is one of my favorite songs I’ve ever written. I have a soft spot for a sad heartbreaker. I wrote it about my own experience and I it makes me proud that I turned a hurtful situation into something really beautiful.
How would you describe your sound in three words — and why those?
Relatable - I write about my own real life experiences
Raw - I say what I’m feeling even if it’s not pretty
Relentless - Every song is a testament to me not giving up my dreams or the life I want. I think there’s a bit of defiance sprinkled into my music.
What was the moment you truly felt like an artist — not just someone making music?
A songwriter writes songs. A singer sings them. I think a true music artist is the one who creates a world around the song. It’s a wider scope than singing or writing. The first moment I felt like an artist was when I released my first song “Redhead” and I created a visual concept, merch, and a whole world where red was synonymous with confidence.
Who are your biggest musical influences, and how do they show up in your work?
I love rnb, pop, and rap — I think all three show up in my music and some of my influences include Sara Bareilles, Raye, Dermot Kennedy, and Amelia Moore.
What’s your creative process like — from a blank page to a finished track?
I think my best songs usually write themselves. Whenever I have something to say or I need to process something, I default to writing a song. I honestly don’t know how it happens but the words just kind of fall out of my mouth and voila a song is written. Sometimes I write with an instrument and sometimes I use a track — depending on whether I’m driving or not. After the song is written I work with a producer who can understand the sound I’m going for with the song, and after a bunch of blood sweat and tears, a song is born. Fun fact, the hook for “Redhead” was written entirely in the car as I was driving down the coastline of Florida.
If someone’s hearing you for the first time, which track should they start with — and why?
“Redhead” because it’s a confident feel good anthem and I think everyone needs some redhead energy in their life! I think it sets the base for my mindset in life and how to approach the rest of my music.
What’s been your most unforgettable moment on your music journey so far?
It’s not one specific moment, but every time someone gets emotional listening to a song I write it makes me feel like I’ve done some good in the world. Giving someone a moment of connection is fulfilling and that’s the biggest gift as a songwriter.
What do you want people to feel when they hear your music?
I want people to simply feel. I hope someone connects with each song and knows they’re not alone. Not every song is going to be for everyone but I want each song to evoke a feeling that anyone can grasp.
What’s next for you — and what should fans be excited about?
My new single “SHUT UP” is coming out May 16! Follow me on my socials because I have a big surprise right after that:)
