From Songwriting Secrets to Soulful Melodies – An Exclusive Interview on Inspiration, Challenges, and the Joy of Creating Music With Asta

 

Welcome to this episode of Star Spot! I’m Merry, and in this series, I interview InterContinental Music Awards winners and insiders, bringing you exclusive insights into the music industry. Today, I’m thrilled to have with me Asta.

join us on a journey with Asta, the multi-talented artist from Taiwan, as we explore her musical prowess and triumphs at the InterContinental Music Awards. From penning her first song at 12 to clinching two Golden Indie Music Awards for her debut album, “YACHUN ASTA TZENG,” Asta’s talent knows no bounds.

Let’s dive right into the interview summary and tap into Asta’s stroty and experience. The full interview is available on Instagram – click here to check it out.

 

Can you share a bit about yourself for those just joining us?

I’m Asta, an artist from Taiwan, wearing multiple hats as a songwriter, singer, music producer, and flutist. My musical journey started at a young age when my mom bought me a keyboard at nine. Initially playing for fun, I discovered a passion for music, and by the age of 12, inspired by a talented artist, I wrote my first song with that little keyboard. Despite the challenges of school, I pursued learning the piano and flute in my junior high school years, constantly writing songs. Eventually, I released my debut album after college and now have four records under my belt. My latest, “FEAST OF THE SOUL,” takes a unique turn into instrumental music, distinguishing it from my previous vocal-centric albums.

 

Can you tell us more about your latest album, “FEAST OF THE SOUL,” and the transition to instrumental music?

“FEAST OF THE SOUL” is a departure from my previous vocal-focused albums. This fourth record delves into the world of instrumental music, featuring the enchanting sounds of the flute. It’s not just a flute album; it’s a fusion of soulful vocals and ethereal flute notes. This shift allowed me to explore new dimensions of musical expression, creating a unique listening experience for my audience. Each track on this album is a musical journey, telling a story through the interplay of instruments and emotions.

 

Who currently serves as your primary musical influence, especially in the realm of flute playing?

At the moment, my biggest musical influence in the world of flute playing is Jef Kearns  , a remarkable Canadian flutist. He’s a genius for playing the flute and plays flute with R&B and soul music. I find his work to be incredibly inspiring. His contributions to the world of music have left a lasting impact on me, and I admire his skill and artistry. When I found him on YouTube and listened to his flute music, I was blown away. There’s a high percentage of flutists play in classical music, and some of the flutists play in jazz, but if you want to find flutists play in soulful music, it’s very difficult. So he’s my big inspiration for playing the soul flute!

 

Can you walk us through your creative process when starting a new piece of music?

Certainly! My approach to songwriting involves a unique sequence of steps that I find most effective. I begin with the arrangement, creating the background music to set the tone. This allows me to immerse myself in the overall atmosphere and feel of the music. Next comes the melodies composition, where I carefully craft the musical elements. Only after these foundational steps do I dive into the lyrical aspect of the song.

I’ve found that this order, starting with arrangement and melodies before lyrics, provides a more liberating and fluid creative experience. If I were to start with lyrics, I might feel constrained by having to match every note to each word. This way, I can first grasp the essence of the music and then seamlessly weave in the lyrics, resulting in a more organic and harmonious composition.

 

How have you managed to sustain your career as an independent artist, considering the challenges that come with it?

Being an independent musician certainly comes with its fair share of challenges, and I’ve navigated through three significant hurdles. Firstly, effective music promotion remains a constant puzzle for independent artists like myself. It’s an ongoing journey, and I’m always exploring new ways to reach a wider audience.

The second challenge revolves around budget constraints for music production. I don’t have extravagant budgets for my records, but I’ve learned to view the support from fans and family as the most precious budget of all. Their encouragement and backing fuel my musical endeavors, turning limitations into opportunities.

Breaking the language label constitutes my third challenge. Initially writing and singing in a specific Taiwanese dialect, I discovered that language can be a barrier for some listeners. Music, however, is a universal language, and I’m determined to transcend linguistic boundaries. It’s a journey, but I’m confident that I’m making strides in breaking the language label.

 

In your opinion, what is the overarching challenge that all independent musicians face in the current music landscape, especially concerning promotion?

Without a doubt, one of the biggest challenges for independent musicians today is navigating the complex landscape of music promotion. Finding the right avenues to showcase your work and connect with a broader audience is an intricate process that demands careful consideration. It’s an ever-evolving challenge that requires adaptability and innovative approaches to stand out in the crowded music scene.

What advice would you give to aspiring musicians or artists who are just starting their careers?

For those embarking on the journey of a musical career, I’d offer this advice: Stay positive. It might sound challenging, and I admit I’ve had my moments of negativity, but I’ve learned that gratitude is a powerful force. Be thankful for what you have, focus on your abundance and prosperity, and surround yourself with people who genuinely love and support you. Instead of dwelling on what you lack, concentrate on the positives in your life. As you elevate your vibrations and embrace a positive mindset, you’ll find that more good vibes will naturally flow into your life. This advice isn’t just for musicians; it’s a universal approach that can enhance anyone’s journey.

 

Are there any exciting upcoming projects or music on the horizon that we should eagerly anticipate?

Currently, I’m taking a well-deserved break from the studio after completing my latest album. Every time I wrap up a project, I find it essential to recharge creatively and mentally. However, rest assured, when the inspiration strikes and the desire to immerse myself in music returns, I’ll be back in the studio working on new and exciting projects.

 

Where can people find your music online?

You can find my music on various platforms such as Apple Music, iTunes, Tidal, Spotify, and many others. Just search for “Asta Music” and you’ll find my collection. Specifically, the latest album you should check out is called “Feast of the Soul.” I’m excited for everyone to experience the unique sound and vibe of this album!

 

Any final words you’d like to share with your fans and our viewers?

Absolutely, I want to express my deep gratitude to each one of you. Your unwavering support means the world to me. Whether I’m in the spotlight or facing challenges, you’ve always stood by my side, and for that, I feel incredibly blessed.

 

Asta Contact Info:

• Website: https://dovecote.wix.com/asta
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astamusic.ig/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/Astatzeng

 

Click here to watch Asta ‘s  full interview on Instagram 

 

InterContinental Music Awards Team

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