If you missed the release of multi-platinum singer-songwriter Sorana’s new single and music video for “Karaoke,” then you are missing a hardworking spirit’s creativity personified. The Romanian-born pop star hit the big time when she released “redruM” with chart-topping DJ David Guetta. Sorana’s journey has been anything but ordinary and she’s determined to make it to the top despite the odds and language barrier she’s already overcome.
What’s the backstory on “Karaoke”?
“It has to do with an actual karaoke bar. In my teens, I would to an old bar every Friday night. I used to go there with my friends. And at the time, when I was really shy. Nobody knew I wanted to be a singer. I was really nervous singing in front of people. I started going through these videos, to see if I can actually get over the fear of singing in front of people. So that’s one side of the story. And then the other side is going through this heartbreaking experience, my first ever heartbreak. I was in a relationship with this guy who was cheating on me. And I knew but thought ‘oh well’ just because I thought he would leave me. I didn’t know what to do with the heartbreak that I felt. So I think I used going to karaoke night as a coping mechanism. And to express my heartbreak, I found the saddest song and sang that out loud, expressing my emotion to music.”
Watch Sorana’s music video for “Karaoke” below:
What’s your experience as a blooming pop star been like so far?
“Well, I grew up in Romania and spoke Romanian most of my life. I’ve always wanted to be a singer and I always wanted to sing in English. It was a hard journey for me. I guess I’m one of the only ones who got to get out of there and actually get a record deal in America. It seemed like a lot of work. I first started doing songwriting sessions growing up and learned how to write in English. I started writing songs for other people as well. I got to write some amazing songs for some big artists along the way too, like “Heartbreak Anthem” for Galantis to “Takeaway” from The Chainsmokers. And then in the meantime, Atlantic Records found me. We had a meeting and I played the song “Karaoke”, and that’s why I’m signed.”
When did you realize you wanted to pursue music as a career?
“I think it’s been a decision I’ve always known. I knew that I wanted to do this. I don’t know where it came from. It’s like I was born with it. I remember I was in my bedroom listening and singing along to the tv. I remember hearing English while watching Cartoon Network. And I’m like, what is that language? I always liked to sing in English. I guess it was meant to be with my looks as well. I do makeup and I want to make unique looks for my music videos and have unique hairstyles when I perform.”
Do you think it’s good for people to express themselves through their appearance?
“Yeah, everyone should express themselves. I like myself no matter what I wear, but I use my looks as an expression. It’s purely artistic for me. I was trying to figure out what I want to look like and I want to be different when I appear on the news. And then I thought this idea of my hair and it would look so crazy because it’s a way I express myself.”
How have visuals and expressions shined through in your music videos?
“Filming videos is one of the most exciting things as a ‘visual person.’ I think “Karaoke” is my favorite thing I’ve ever shot before. It was like singing on stage, when someone wants to be an artist or whatever. And then you face all these emotions. I used to be very shy with people and had to train to get some courage. Then you can act confident. So the video feels like a lot of the emotions that go through my head. To finally find that courage and then have a great performance? Yeah, that’s why I wanted to showcase this song with a video and I love that having a music video allows me to show different meanings to the song’s audio. then. And also filming it was an amazing experience because I got to rehearse and it took lots of weeks worth of planning before we shot it. So It was definitely a really fun time and really challenging. Like, a lot of work.”
Sorana’s releases have found their way into the top 20 charts in four nations across the world. She has served as the pen behind some of the most recognizable songs from pop’s biggest stars. Her multi-talented style is apparent to her listeners and peers. Now she isn’t afraid to sing for the globe, let alone a karaoke bar or the millions of ears she has played for on streaming services.
Follow Sorana on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
Subscribe to Beyond The Stage for more interviews and news on your favorite artists like Sorana.
- Beyond The Stage’s Best Music and Concert Photos of 2024 - December 20, 2024
- PHOTOS: Farmer’s Wife – Chicago, IL – 11/30/2024 - December 2, 2024
- Samantha Crain Shares New Single and Announces Massive 42-Date Global Tour - November 19, 2024