Meet Tecuani | Artist

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

Hi Tecuani, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I’ve always been an easily inspired person- since I was little, I wanted to be a veterinarian, an actress, an anesthesiologist, a surgeon, a zoologist, etc. And if I could, I’d do them all. But the only thing I’m willing to dedicate my whole life to alone is music. It’s been there with me since I can remember, shaping almost every important moment along the way. Although I still love other forms of art, it’s the one which I can connect to the deepest parts of myself with, and feel that I’m connecting with other people. I believe music is the closest form we get to magic on this earth, and I feel that every time I sing or write or perform.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I grew up on my parents’ 70s and 80s music, their Latino music, and whatever was hitting the top 40s at the time. I loved to sing all the time. Even then, I contemplated a lot of career paths and did a variety of things before I hit the music track, which I finally did when I was 16. By that time, I had accumulated a lot of different music- I loved everything I did before, and had grown love for shoe gaze, soul, indie rock, hip hop, jazz, and more. But I didn’t know what my artist identity was, or what kind of music I wanted to pursue specifically. Around the time I started college, I realized that I wanted to focus on alternative R&B. I’m still not 100% sure what led to the decision, but it’s what feels absolutely right for me. I think I find that a lot of things sort of happen like that for me in life. They don’t necessarily fall right into my lap- it’s more like walking around a brand new city all the time with no directions. And some day, after you’ve walked all over and learned a lot, you realize you’re not lost anymore, and you know exactly where you are. I spent my next 2 years at college pinpointing exactly how I first wanted to present myself as an artist to the world. More than anything, I learned a lot about trusting myself- you are the first person you’ve got, and if you don’t truly support yourself, it won’t matter how many other people do. (I’m still kind of learning that.) But I also have an incredible support system, and that’s never something to take for granted. Community matters. There is really nothing more important than the love we give and the love we receive.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Not sure how much I want to give away about the real beauty about L.A., but it’s even great just to start with some of the most obvious. I would love to take them to the Griffith Observatory- it’s been one of my favorite points in L.A. since I was little, as my parents used to take me all the time. I looked through that big telescope once when I was probably still three feet tall and I’ve never gotten the image out of my mind. I’m afraid they wouldn’t be able to escape a hike with me either- Malibu is right there, and you’ve got to take advantage of its beauty! Besides that, it’s home to some of the most beautiful beaches you’ll see outside of any tropical area. In between all that, the most important thing is food. I think I can call myself a certified foodie at this point. We’d be hitting up Nino’s Place on Vermont for some incredible Peruvian food, Pine and Crane in Silver Lake if you’ve never had Taiwanese, and maybe a Zankou Chicken location for the best chicken kabob I’ve ever had here! And of course, we’d have to see some live music too- although the kind of music would depend on whoever I’m with.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Mi mami- we have literally (scientifically) been with each other our whole lives. She has always made sure I feel comfortable stepping through the doors she helped open for me. I couldn’t have asked for a more wonderful mom.

Instagram: tecuaniii

Image Credits
Paloma Gonzales