Interview by Carol Wright | Photos Courtesy of Crystal Starr

We got to chat with musician Crystal Starr about the music video for her song “All Mine” and keeping herself creatively motivated.

Has music been your passion from a young age?

Yes, music has always been a passion of mine. When I was little, I used to go around singing EVERYWHERE. I knew from childhood exactly what I was going to do when I grew up. 

Who are some of your musical influences?

My biggest influences have got to be Tina Turner, Janet Jackson, Whitney Houston, and Ella Fitzgerald. Easily.

Tell our readers about “All Mine.” What inspired the lyrics?

“All Mine” is the first song I’ve ever produced, so releasing this as my first single is pretty special for me since women aren’t generally given much credit for being producers in the music industry.  I wrote it along with my friend, Cortney Janea, during a low point – things were feeling pretty sad during the quarantine and lockdown, and I wanted to feel that joy again. My husband was the inspiration behind the lyrics.

How creatively involved were you in the “All Mine” music video?

I was heavily involved in making the video for “All Mine.” I’m always the creative mind behind every music video I make. The process is simple: I have a vision when I am writing the song, and I love to see what I’ve envisioned come to life on screen. I did everything from directing to wardrobe, creating the shot list, and scouting the location. I bought most of the clothing on Amazon and in-person in downtown LA. As far as collaborators go – I worked with my longtime friend Jane Lawata, who helped me produce and edit the video. 

The pandemic put a lot of things on pause. How did you keep yourself feeling creative while the world was in a state of flux?

As difficult as it was, the pause was the best thing that could have happened to me. I’ve been touring for years and haven’t had the time just to sit and be still. During the forced quiet of lockdown, I was able to solely just focus on being creative. I learned how to play the piano, produced music, engineered my own sessions, bought a blow-up jacuzzi, and created a movie theater in my garage – and was just generally able to find me again. That is the trick. The best thing a creative can have is quiet time because that’s when the music flows the best and creative juices start going. 

What advice do you have for aspiring singers?

Be the inspiration you’re looking for. Remember that you are bigger than your voice, and your gift will make room for you. Be a good business person, always. Learn your craft and the business behind your craft. Be smart about your choices and never settle for less than what you were made to be.