We got to catch up with singer/songwriter Halston Dare and hear all about her latest single “Pinnacle” which is out now!
During the pandemic has music been a welcome escape for you?
During the pandemic, as much as I would’ve liked it too, music definitely was not an escape for me. I felt very trapped, unmotivated, and lost. I was out of my element and it was a huge shock. I was so used to traveling and constantly going to in-person writing sessions and going to meetings and it was all taken away from me within minutes. However, it took me out of my comfort zone, and I evolved and found my niche.
Tell us about “Pinnacle.” What inspired the lyrics?
When I went to the writing session that day, I had no idea what I wanted to write about, but I walked in knowing that I didn’t want to write about a breakup. That’s what I usually write about! I decided to write about the meaningful, romantic and intimate parts of a relationship that I hadn’t explored before in my songs. It was one of the greatest writing sessions that I have been a part of.
You co-wrote “Pinnacle” with Jordan Sapp and Shane Stevens. What was it like collaborating with them?
Collaborating with Jordan Sapp and Shane Stevens was definitely a treat. They are the most incredible producer/writer combo that I have ever worked with. And they are a joy to be around. Jordan is so funny, and Shane has so much personality. You’re definitely gonna have a good time being in a room with both of them. I’m very grateful that I was able to spark a new work relationship and friendship between all of us.
When you are vulnerable and pull from personal experiences to write your songs, does it make the finished product that much more rewarding?
Being vulnerable and writing about personal experiences does make the finished product absolutely that much more rewarding. You’re telling a story. And not only are you telling a story, but it is also true! It feels that much more rewarding knowing that you’re being transparent, sharing your experiences and your feelings, with your fans and listeners. I would much rather open up my entire world and heart, then write about a lie.
“Pinnacle” has been a hit with Triller users and even got a choreographed dance. Is it exciting to be able to connect with fans via social media platforms and have you recorded your own version of the dance?
From everything that I’ve seen and the response that I have been getting from Pinnacle, it has definitely been exciting! Triller has been very helpful and I’m very excited for everybody to start hopping on that app. I am a part of a really exciting group of ladies called the Troope House on the app and an incredible dancer named Joana created a dance to my new song Pinnacle. I am not the most graceful dancer, and I am not very coordinated with my body when it comes to dancing, so I don’t think I will be doing a video. If I did try, it would be something to laugh at!
What advice do you have for aspiring singers?
Practice and push yourself out of your comfort zone. Diversify yourself. The only opinion that you should be listening to is either your idols or yourself and that is it. If you want it bad enough, you will make it happen! No laziness! No excuses!