Have you ever imagined your favourite song of the moment in a different musical style or vibe, and then found the perfect cover of it on YouTube? Chances are, you’ve probably seen and heard a few of Tiffany Alvord’s covers. Since starting off on YouTube posting covers of different hits, she’s found a special place in the hearts of many with both covers and original music!
CelebMix got to chat with Tiffany about her start in music, her career thus far, and releasing a new album!
When was the moment that you realized that you wanted to pursue music as a professional career?
I’ve always had a passion for writing songs ever since I was about 10, but the moment I realized I wanted to do this professionally was when I started sharing my music on YouTube. I realized how much my music touched others and how it allowed me to connect with people around the world and with fans. It hit me that my music could make a difference in letting people know they aren’t alone in what they’re feeling.
How would you personally describe your musical style?
My music is like an acoustic guitar covered in glitter. It’s playful and feel-good pop music mixed with love, sweat and tears!?
What have you found to be more difficult — putting your own spin on songs to cover or writing original music?
Putting my own spin on cover’s is quite easy and fun as the song is already produced and I get to try a few different styles and decide which I like best. For example: it could be slowed down on piano, or upbeat and acoustic, or half time. Writing original music is also so much fun and comes naturally to me, but I would say this is more difficult. It’s not difficult to write, but it’s sooooo much harder to DECIDE what songs I want to release and which songs represent me as an artist. I love to write in all different styles and I love all genres so pinpointing who I am as an artist becomes the difficult part.
How would you say you’ve grown as a person or artist throughout your career thus far?
I think when I first started releasing music the whole process was so new: recording, learning my strengths, filming videos, performing, touring, etc. But after doing it for all these years, my confidence as an artist and a person have blossomed. It is true, the more you do something, the better you get. Experience is the best teacher. My first time in a studio, my producer wanted to do a test recording and I looked to his daughter (as I had no idea what I was doing) and she told me to put the headphones on. There was a huge learning curve. I realized every trial and challenge along the way, the doors that got closed, or the people that didn’t have my best interest, were really all stepping stones and has all lead me to where I am and who I am today and I’m so thankful. I’m more cautious, more intentional, and definitely stronger than when I started. I’m more confident in knowing who I am and knowing what I want.
Do you have a favorite original song you’ve written?
My favorite original I’ve written is “Baby I Love You.” It was the most personal and most terrifying song for me. The first time I ever said “I Love You” to someone, I sang it to them with this song. I was so scared, but it was easier singing the words than saying them. Writing is like my journal where I pour out all my own thoughts, dreams, and wishes. I didn’t know how to say “I Love You,” so naturally I turned to writing. It’s amazing hearing the stories of how people connected with this song!! Someone put it to their wedding video! 14 million views on YouTube later, it will always have a special place in my heart! It’s nice to know other people have felt the same way I did!
You’re getting ready to release an album of original music this year – what has been the most challenging part of putting together an original album?
YES! I’m so beyond excited to get my new music out! The most challenging part of putting together an original album is deciding which songs to put on the album! Each song I write has a special place in my heart and so I love them all and want to share them all. Narrowing down 20 songs and picking my favorite 5 makes it extremely difficult. Thankfully, that’s the hardest part and writing/recording/producing is always fun because I get to create and make something new.
Where do you find most of your inspiration for songs?
I find most my inspiration from things I’ve gone through, things I’ve seen (whether it be things my friends have gone through or something sparked by a film I’ve seen), or little catch phrases I hear or say. I love just sitting down with an instrument and playing chords til it fits the vibe of what I’m feeling and just letting the words come out. It’s cathartic.
What would you say has been the most rewarding element of your career?
The most rewarding part has been meeting my fans face to face. It’s one thing to have a worldwide fan base online, but to meet them in person and hear their stories, connect faces to names, and hug them.. it makes what I do real. My songs have more meaning as I get to see how they have influenced or inspired my fans. It’s definitely the highlight for me. I think another rewarding part is realizing my fans connect with my music. It can change someone’s mood, help them through hard times, or help them have a fun time, and that’s all I could ask for as an artist!
Outside of music, you’ve also been doing some acting – what was your first time trying acting, and how did that feel?
I absolutely love acting and performing! The first time I tried acting I was 9 and went out for “Annie” with my community theater. I fell in love with being on stage and playing a character outside myself. My first time being on film was in 2016 on my first movie, “School Spirits” and it just reminded me of how in love I was with the process. I love learning the character, bonding with the cast and crew, and being able to create a new world to play in. It was just so inspiring and gave me the itch for wanting more!
Is there anything you’d like to say to your fans?
My fans are Tiffanatics and they have always been the reason I’m able to do what I love and not a day goes by that I’m not extremely thankful to them all! I’m blessed to have such amazing people supporting this journey! So to my fans: Thank you for believing in me through all these years and continuing to inspire and support more! I can’t wait to see what’s ahead!! Always Sm:)e!
You can stay connected with Tiffany Alvord on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and YouTube.
Are you excited about her new album? Let us know by tweeting us at @CelebMix!