Castella is a national adult R&B, Smooth Jazz Independent Recording Artist. Pick up her new EP
Interview conducted on March 5, 2021
By Dan Locke
What is your upbringing?
I grew up in Long Beach, California with my parents and my big brothers… I also have an older sister. My family wasn’t wealthy by any means, but they took good care of us and I didn’t want for anything. My parents worked hard to earn a living. We attended church each Sunday. I did activities like cheerleading and of course singing in the church choir as a kid.
How did you discover music?
I discovered music through singing at church and playing violin in 3rd grade.
How did you start to write music?
I think I’ve always been a writer, poetic… using flowery words and such. But it wasn’t until I met Mr. Darryl Swann that I really sat down and started paying attention to what was always there. The melodies, harmonies and words that were there, I started recording them and writing them down. It was an amazing outpouring!
Describe your music.
My music is kind of all over the place because I like some of everything, so MY music reflects it. My music has a soul, gospel, smooth jazz, R&B feel. There is something there for everyone!
What was your first performance at like?
I’ve been singing in church for a long time… BUT my first performance of my own music with a “live” band is most memorable. It was euphoric, it left me wanting more!! It was an absolutely amazing experience! I had an amazing band behind me and the energy from the audience fueled me. Can’t wait to do it again!
What makes a good songwriter?
Someone who can tell a good story that the audience can relate to – something they can feel. Also, clever use of words is good too – not sounding overly cliche’
How did you come up with your name? Because Castella is a kind of wagashi originally developed in Japan based on the “Nanban confectionery”.
I know… if you Google Castella, you’ll get a cake first! Castella is the nickname of my grandmother – Kathleen, who I just so happened to be named after. I always heard people call her Ms. Castella when I would visit her in the summers. When trying to find a stage name, for some reason, Castella came to me… it resonated with me and it is in her honor that I sing – I think she’d be very proud of me!
Why did you start your own label?
I was essentially doing what a record label would do for me… doing administrative work, marketing, PAYING FOR EVERYTHING… why not. – it just felt right! Now I can honestly say I have a small business and it is an amazing feeling!! I also own my masters and I can control what I do and when I do it. Music Freedom!
Do you belong to any to songwriters’ organizations like the international singer-songwriter association, SESAC, BMI or ASCAP?
I do! I am a member of ASCAP and the International Singer Songwriters Association.
What was the title of your first original song? Did you record it?
The first lyrics and melodies that have stuck with me for years was a song I wrote in memory of my best friend who passed away 20 years ago… I would sing this tune whenever I’d think of her. That song is called “I Miss You” and it is on my debut EP.
How was it to share the stage with trumpeter Willie Bradley and EnVogue?
It’s just amazing to say I was on the same ticket with them! I was so honored!!
Tell me about your single “Mojito” which comes out Feb/ 22nd?
The single Mojito is a cool story… I wrote the lyrics to the song as I waited for my family to arrive for my mother’s birthday dinner. I was feeling really good about myself and what I had been writing and sharing with my mentor Darryl Swann. I ordered a Mojito from the Happy Hour menu at Cheesecake Factory and it inspired the words I wrote. The beat to Mojito was created by my producer Corey Stampley. He happened put it on and I FELL IN LOVE with it. I sifted through the myriad of words I’d been writing and stumbled upon the words I had written on that October day. They fit the music like a glove and the tune Mojito was born.
How do you stay healthy while performing?
I work out, cardio and weight lifting… I try to avoid bad foods… It’s hard though!!
What are you’re feeling about streaming music?
I have no issue with it… We have to change with the times and try to figure out how to make it work for us. Not a lot of money in it for the artist unless you’re able to get millions of streams. Therein lies the challenge for me
The symbol # is known as the number sign, hash, [ or (in North American usage) pound sign. The symbol has historically been used for a wide range of purposes Since 2007, widespread usage of the symbol to introduce metadata tags on social media platforms has led to such tags being known as “hashtags”, and from that, the symbol itself is sometimes called a hashtag.
Are people forgetting that the # is a part of music?
I’m sure those who actually read music haven’t forgotten (smile)
Digital vs. vinyl?
I love the nostalgia of Vinyl… the sound it makes… the idea of dropping the needle and letting it play! It’s kinda sexy and romantic…. But we can’t beat the convenience of having music right at our fingertips!!
What song from the past is in your mind right now? Moreover, what is the meaning that song means to you?
My favorite song of all time is Sailing by Christopher Cross., It’s a song that instantly puts me in a good mood! The idea of getting away, being out sailing without a care in the world, relaxing…
How was it to sing the National Anthem right at the start of the beginning of the virus?
I always consider it an honor to sing the National Anthem. Having the opportunity to sing it at my alma maters was really cool!
Both (Pfizer and BioNTech) and Moderna have conclude Phase 3 Study of the Coronavirus vaccine. With the both vaccines, it takes two shots. How many people do you think will take it and how many will forget to take the second shot?
It appears that many will take it. My mother just got her second shot the other day!
How long before the whole world will be vaccinated against the virus. You have to remember there only has to be a 70% for Herd immunity (Herd immunity occurs when a large portion of a community (the herd) becomes immune to a disease, making the spread of disease from person to person unlikely. As a result, the whole community becomes protected — not just those who are immune.)
If “Video Killed the Radio Star” do you think that the Covid-19 virus has killed live music? Do you feel the Covid-19 virus going to affect the music business in the future?
For the time being, yes, the virus has shut down live music at full capacity. I am hoping that someday we will be able to pack people in like sardines who wish to be… But I honestly believe we musicians are resilient and we will not let the virus kill the art. We have to adjust and continue to create and share our gifts. We will be back at it!!
What have you been doing with your self-quarantine?
I produced two records during the pandemic and a little jingle. I continue to work with my producer Jeff Canady on the songs for my upcoming EP “Let Me Love You”
How was it to be part of TEG International Jazz Fest, which was virtual?
Being asked to be a part of the TEG International Jazz Fest was quite an honor! It was my first Jazz Fest as an artist! I am grateful for the opportunity!
You were nominated for Best Female Artist of 2020 by The Soul Train UK. Are you ready for the Grammys?
What a fierce competition that was… My family, friends and fans really came through for me and casted many votes!! It was quite the fun journey – a daily interaction with my fans – I saw how much people really support me. I’m grateful. I am ready for the Grammys and hope to one day be nominated and WIN!! That would be a dream come true!!
Were you surprise to see your music at the Top 100 chart for Smooth Jazz Network for “Let Me Love You”?
I never take anything for granted. I recall the day I first saw Let Me Love You made the chart!! I almost jumped out of my seat! I was so happy!!! I was really nervous about the song, hoping people liked it. So, to see it there was a big sigh of relief. I was so honored to be on the chart. It was in the Top 100 for many weeks! It was a birthday gift to myself to my fans… It was a gift that kept giving for many months and is still giving!
Have you discovered or rediscovered any new hobbies?
I’ve been picking up books and also trying to work out more. I tried gardening, but I’m not good at it… Especially Basil!!
95% of people said that they have changed the way they watch television. This includes people who don’t have television and using their computers to do streaming of programs and movies. Which is your favorite streaming channel?
I like Netflix… I like Amazon Prime… I like Hulu… I like good old-fashioned cable! I love TV!!
Many artists are doing nightly concerts over either YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. In October that is going to change at least on Facebook. Facebook is cracking down on livestreamed shows that include recorded music with new terms of service, preventing artists from using the platform for “commercial or non-personal” purposes, unless they have obtained the relevant licenses.
The updated music guidelines state that users “may not use videos on our products [which include Instagram] to create a music listening experience […] This will includes [Facebook] Live,” and stipulates that such content should be posted for the enjoyment of friends and family only.
How do you think this will change the landscape of Facebook?
That was a tough pill to swallow. Artists have found a way to still stream. Follow the rules etc. It definitely is no longer a free for all.
How can bands keep their fans if they cannot play live in front of the fans and sell merchandise to them at the show?
Fans are loyal. True fans are not going anywhere!
Is pay to play still a thing? Now pay to play also means thinks like playlist on the internet and opening slots for a major band on tour.
I believe it is. Some people purchase streams or pay to be on playlists. I can’t say I’ve done that…
What about Holographic concerts in our living room?
I’ve sang in my living room… I can’t wait to sing before a live audience to feel their energy.
Governments around the world are hearing the call of thousands of music creators and included protections for the music community in the omnibus bill. In addition to extended and improved unemployment benefits and small business loans for freelance creators, the package includes several bills which the Recording Academy, its members, and the larger music community advocated for. From the Save Our Stages Act, provided a lifeline to performance venues and promoters, to the CASE Act, which creates an avenue for smaller creators to defend their copyrighted works, Congress has ensured that both music creators and those who act behind the scenes to bring music to life are given the support they need during this difficult time.”
Do you think this will help the music industry?
Anything to help artist protect their craft will help,
Did you know that the Grammys MusicCares can help artist? The MusiCares COVID-19 Relief has helped thousands of music industry artists and professionals during these difficult days. This is the most recipients helped, for any single event, in MusiCares’ history. The need remains great, and these unique times remain critical for music people. It has taken a community uplifting one another to get through this pandemic, and MusiCares has pulled together a list of additional organizations and resources to further support you. https://www.grammy.com/musicares/get-help/relief-resources
In the past if a musician stop doing music, they find a new career. For example, David Lee Roth from Van Halen became a licensed EMT in NY for 6 years, San Spitz (guitarist for Anthrax) became a master watchmaker, Dee Snider (Twister Sister) voice over work for SpongeBob SquarePants. If you can’t do music, what would you like to be doing?
Well, I am not your typical musician. I did it backwards. I worked as a Human Resources professional for many years for local cities in southern California – most recently as a Human Resources Director… I kinda do that still…people are my passion, both to entertain and help them solve problems at work – And then I became a National Recording Artist. My colleagues are still rather shocked at my transformation!
What is your happy place?
My happy place is in the studio… I absolutely love it!!
Spotify just deleted 750,00 songs, mostly from independent artists. Was your saved? Yes…
Sony Music in November and Warner Music Group in December, The ByteDance-owned video app revealed on (February 8) that it has struck an “expanded” global licensing agreement with Universal Music Group. Now that TikTok is now fully licensed by all three major record companies, will you start using TikTok more?
I probably should… it is all the craze!!
