A benefit of the lockdown and isolation period of 2020 has been having more time to listen to the amount of incredible new music being released. Because of this we have been able to discover incredible rising artists, such as Rainsford. Rainsford is an incredible creative, with a multitude of talents and a distinct sound. Her latest video for her song “Crying in the Mirror” was directed by Cara Delevingne and stars model Kaia Gerber. With a new release, now is the perfect time to become familiar with Rainsford.

How have you been keeping yourself sane during this period of restrictions and lockdown? Has it affected your creative processes positively or negatively?

Luckily I’ve been pretty busy! I shot three music videos in the past few months, as well as, a mini-series called Love In The Time Of Corona for Freeform/Hulu. I’ve also been writing new music, my photoshoots have started picking back up, and now I’m fostering four precious baby kittens.

How did you first become interested in music?

I started dancing at a really young age, so I think that was really impactful for me musically.  Basically as soon as I realized I could sing, I just loved it.  I used to be really shy about my voice and performing, especially because I’m an introvert. My mother used to put me on the spot to show off to her friends, lol.  But now I love it! I really miss performing.  

 Were there any artists in particular that influenced your music?

Lots! I’ve been influenced by Etta James, Prince, Kate Bush, Mariah Carey, Marvin Gaye, Spice Girls, Hanson, and Backstreet boys.

smartURL for track: https://frtyfve.lnk.to/OMG

Directed by Dana Boulos @danaboulos

• Cinematography by Bernard Evans @bernardevansdp
• VFX & Editing by Michael Flanagan @michael.a.flanagan
• Styled by Janet Gomez @janetdgomez
• Makeup by Yasmin Istanbouli @yasminist
• Hair by Vera Iwanoff @verafied_hair
• Produced by BRAINFREEZE @brainfreezeproduction

You seem to be inspired by some 80s influences when looking at your music and videos, would you say you’re influenced by the 80s aesthetic?

I would!

Before you started pursuing music you had somewhat of an acting career, is that something still in your sights?

Yeah for sure.  I’ve shot three movies, a pilot, and a mini-series within the last year and a half.

How do you feel your family influences you in your art?

The influence my family has on me is kind of indescribable.  They’re the most important people to me on Earth, and their existence shapes my existence.    

Both your latest singles were promoted via music videos, how important do you feel music videos are?

I think music videos are crucial now more than ever.  Musicians can’t play live.  I’m personally not interested in virtual performances, both as an artist and a consumer of music.  So I’ve been putting a lot of attention into my music videos and the visual presentation of my songs

Do you have a favourite music video which you enjoy? Or a favourite show/film/document which influences your visual style?

I really like Kenneth Anger films.  I’m drawn to stuff that’s a bit more surreal and strange.  

Who are your favourite fashion brands at the moment? Anyone we should check out?

I mostly buy vintage.  Ever since I shot the “Oh My God” music video, I’ve been lusting after the vintage yellow Versace set we used.  I’ve been scouring the internet trying to find one.

Moving onto new music, what can we expect to hear from you in the upcoming weeks?

“Oh My God” came out September 18^th and will be followed by another single in October.

What can you tell us about your new single “Oh My God”? Is there a new video in the works?

Yes, the single and music video both came out September 18^th! This song is a bit unusual for me because I was trying to write something fun, funny, and silly.  Typically everything I write is deeply personal and emotional.  I wrote, “Oh My God” with one of my best friends. You can actually hear me laughing at the beginning.  The vibe is very OMG. 

Does it feel strange to not be able to perform your new releases in front of people yet?

It does.

Following an ease of restrictions can we expect some tour dates from you anytime soon?

Fingers crossed! I’m down as soon as we’re allowed!

After your upcoming release, what is next for Rainsford? Do you have any plans for a second EP or an album in the pipeline?

I’ll have another single next month and a bunch of new stuff in the works!