Skylar Simone is an exciting new voice on the R&B scene that should be on everyone’s radar. The multi-instrumentalist spoke with NYOTA about her song “Pedestal,” drawing inspiration for songs from real life, and not letting outside opinions get in the way of creating her art.

You play both the piano and the drums. How has that shaped the way you make music and perform?

Playing instruments at a young age has given me a better understanding of musicality and rhythm, just in general, which I’m so grateful for. Whether it’s starting and writing a song on the piano or playing the drums live, instruments have influenced both me and my music in countless ways. 

“Pedestal” is about the need to be loved for who you are, something that is especially relatable to a lot of young women. What message do you want to share with them?

I think everyone at some point has felt the pressure of expectations or needing to be the best version of themselves to the point where it feels like if you’re anything but that, you’re letting others, and yourself, down. But with this song, I want to hopefully remind others that authenticity is beautiful, and vulnerability is strength.

For the “Pedestal” music video, you chose to do a live performance with a six-piece arrangement. How did you come to that musical direction?

Lyrically, “Pedestal” speaks about vulnerability in a stripped-back manner. So I thought doing a live-style video felt like it represented the song perfectly. My amazing music director, RJ, and I have been working together for years now, and he did such a beautiful job bringing my vision to life alongside the other incredible musicians who were also a part of the video.

Your recent singles, “Pedestal” and “Do U Ever,” while different in vibe, are two romantic letters to authentic human connection. Do you find yourself coming back to that theme a lot?

Yes, definitely! I am a sucker for romance and writing about all things in the world of love and relationships. Whether good, bad, healthy, or toxic, I have always drawn inspiration from real life! As a 23-year-old girl, those experiences are very true to where I’m at and what I’m going through in my life currently.

For artists, laying it all on the track might be liberating, or it can be scary. Do you find giving voice to your feelings through songs daunting at times?

Sometimes yes! I think it’s a bit scarier when I get in my head and start worrying about how things might be perceived by people listening in the outside world. However, I do try my best not to let those intrusive thoughts get in the way of creating art because music is supposed to be a safe place where you can find comfort in sharing experiences and thoughts unapologetically.

You’re not just a singer, songwriter, and musician, but you’re also a fashion girlie. Who or what are your biggest sources of inspiration?

Pinterest (lol). I draw a lot of inspiration for my music through art and fashion! Recently, I’ve been really drawn to 70s/80s rock and hip-hop culture. I loved how free everything felt and the confidence that was shown through fashion and music in that era.

You have recently gone independent and have released two singles since then. Is this a signal of a new Skylar Simone era? What should we expect?

I am currently in the studio and really enjoying making music and seeing where that creative process leads me.