Words by Carol Wright | Photographer: David Schuler
We got to chat with YVR about their new song “How Have You Been” and the creative process behind making the music video.
When did the both of you know you wanted to pursue music full-time?
Courtney: As soon as I entered college, I fell in love with songwriting. It was then I knew I wanted to pursue music full-time.
Stephen: When I started playing guitar at age 9.
Is your songwriting process different when you’re writing songs for other artists versus creating songs for yourselves?
There are definitely some differences. When we write with and for other artists, we give them the creative space to speak their minds and drive the direction of the song. When writing for ourselves, we start from a different, more internal and personal space that feels authentic to us.
Walk us through the process of creating your new EP How Have You Been. What direction did you want to take your sound on this project?
Our goal with this sophomore EP was to dive even deeper into our most vulnerable and authentic selves. We spent weeks and sometimes months on each song making them as real and raw as possible, re-working them until they felt just right. The production is driven by warm synths, driving beats and guitar riffs.
Tell us about the title track “How Have You Been”. Its messaging is a bit different than most love songs in terms of how it touches on reflecting on a past relationship. What inspired the lyrics?
The lyrics were inspired by a past relationship. When a relationship ends, you always hold a place in your heart for that person, regardless of who ended it. The lyrics in this song reflect on how breaking someone’s heart can sometimes hurt worse than being heartbroken.
Were you both heavily involved in the making of the music video for “How Have You Been”? What was it like seeing the final product?
The music video was directed by our good friend David Schuler. The 3 of us planned all the details together and then David took creative freedom which he is so amazing at. He captured the feeling of the music and lyrics perfectly.
What advice do you have for aspiring singers?
Being a singer is a beautiful thing, but the music industry isn’t always beautiful. Always remember to do it because you love it or you will burn out fast.
