Interview by Carol Wright | Photographer: Alissa Wyle (Holy Smoke Photography)
We got to chat with singer/songwriter Hunter Blair Ambrose about her album Scorpio Season and her advice for aspiring singers.
Was there a specific moment you can remember that sparked your interest in music?
Since I was a kid, I really felt this distinct, intense connection to music and to certain artists that I felt drawn to. For as long as I can remember, I was utterly obsessed with music, in comparison to my peers. I think the first music that really registered as idols of mine that piqued my interest in music and performing were Britney Spears, Michael Jackson, and a lot of Disney soundtracks.
Who are some of your musical influences?
My most significant influences include The Weeknd, Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande, Drake, Kanye West, Dua Lipa, Tove Lo, Jhene Aiko, etc.
Do you feel as though you grew as an artist while working Scorpio Season?
I grew immeasurably as an artist and as a human being from making my album Scorpio Season. Every artist’s first album is a huge milestone in life, but the combination of events and circumstances that occurred in my life while making this record forced me to really look in the mirror so to speak. These songs are very much a reflection of the personal metamorphosis that I underwent while creating this project. The storyline present in the album certainly was meant to represent that.
Tell our readers about your single “Right Now.” What inspired the lyrics?
“Right Now” was the very first song I had written for the album way back in 2017. Over the course of five years, the song’s sound and production has shifted but at its core, the song is about fear and lust. It was written about my desire for a relationship but being held back by damage and personal issues from the past despite wanting to give into desire for a person.
This past year and a half has been a whirlwind for everyone. Has music helped get you through this time?
I made my new album Scorpio Season right in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. It was a savior for me in the midst of such a chaotic, unnerving time. I really don’t know how I would’ve been affected had I not had this incredible project to keep me productive, focused, and creative. It was crucial for me to get through the last year and a half and certainly was a much-needed escape. I think music did that for a lot of people in 2020 and 2021.
What advice do you have for aspiring singers?
My advice would be to just keep honing your craft at every opportunity. Whether that means performing at any chance you get, writing music consistently, practicing, collaborating with others, etc. I also would say, never become complacent as a music fan and listener. Exploring new music and expanding your palate is imperative.