We had the good fortune of connecting with Sonja Midtune and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sonja, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
It’s impossible to know! Sometimes you need to give up and see how you feel. Do you feel more like your self? Do you feel a sense of relief and freedom? If yes, then it was a good idea.
However, if you give up and don’t feel like yourself anymore, then get back on it!! I’ve done this a few times and I think it really made me realize that I’m an artist whether I choose to be or not.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My degree is in Music Theory and Composition, so I have classical knowledge behind my music! It took me a long time to figure out how to write without trying to “keep it interesting” in terms of music theory, or in other words, avoiding making songs that are just 4 chords. As the late and great French composer Narcís Bonet says, it’s about “tension and release”. This can be accomplished in any type of song! Doesn’t matter how many or how few chords.
The biggest challenge I’ve faced is balancing work life, social life, and music life. When the pandemic hit, I was relieved to have an excuse to stay inside and make music. I wrote and recorded a 4-song EP called “Dreams Melt Away” that was just released on all streaming platforms April 2nd!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Catch a rooftop dinner at Mama Shelter, then an intimate show at the Hotel Café, no matter who is playing. Spend one day at Zuma Beach and have your “splurge” night at a nice beachside restaurant. Sunday, hit up Melrose Trading Post for vintage clothes and art. The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Special thanks to all the people who have worked on my team! From making the music, to music videos, and IG content. My bf especially… we stay up until midnight every night packaging merch, making promo videos, etc. There’s always something!

Website: www.sonjamidtune.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/sonjamidtune

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ppBFTeKOhho

Image Credits
All photos: Michelle Lanning

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