By Nicholas Jason Lopez
Some genres were made to be defied.
Miami indie pop singer-songwriter Julia Bhatt dropped her latest single “Hair Salon Vibes” in mid-August, an example of her ability to both have an ear for dance-crazed hooks and a way for words, all while she finds a way to deal with her mental health struggles.
Since her emergence on the scene in late 2019, Bhatt, 19, has garnered a massive following on social media, something she hasn’t shied away from, as her cautious approach of “influencer fame” even became the subject of her previous single “1:30.”
The Music Bugle had the chance to talk with Bhatt about what she’s been up to lately and more.
Music Bugle – What do you miss the most about performing live?
Julia Bhatt – Making people happy!
Music Bugle – What excites you the most about your style of music?
Julia Bhatt – That it’s ever-changing. I don’t know what my style is and I think that’s kinda cool. Not great for when people ask what type of music I make, though.
Music Bugle – What was your goal for your single “Hair Salon Vibes”?
Julia Bhatt – I just wanted to make a modern song that I wanna dance to!
Music Bugle – What do you attribute your success to, so far?
Julia Bhatt – My producer, Elliot Jacobson. Wouldn’t be anywhere near where I am without him.
Music Bugle – How have you been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic?
Julia Bhatt – Definitely been working on my own a lot more. I’ve been messing around with production software, which is creating a lot of different sounds, like “Hair Salon Vibes.“
Music Bugle – What makes you the most proud about where you come from?
Julia Bhatt – Probably that I’m still standing, honestly. I’ve come from a very different place than I’m in now and that makes me proud.
Music Bugle – Who are you listening to right now, music-wise?
Julia Bhatt – Weirdly enough, I’ve been getting back into John Mayer’s first couple of albums. Some real bangers.
Music Bugle – Where do you go when you need a break?
Julia Bhatt – I like to drive. There’s a place called Robert is Here, near the Everglades. It’s just a big fruit stand with smoothies and animals and strange fruits. It’s a very chill vibe and the drive usually makes me feel better.
Music Bugle – What’s a quote that motivates you to keep doing what you do?
Julia Bhatt – “The only person you’re truly competing against is yourself,” by Jean-Luc Picard.
Music Bugle – What do you hope for by the end of 2021?
Julia Bhatt – Probably a little more self-assurance.
*Photo Credit – Shervin Lainez*