Insider Advice for Aspiring Singer-Songwriters: How to Nail Interviews and Handle the Spotlight
As an artist, every interview is a chance to showcase your talent, your personality, and your professionalism. Whether you’re a singer, songwriter, actor, or any performer pursuing your dreams, how you conduct yourself in interviews can make or break your public image. From my decades of experience in the entertainment industry—starting at age 14—I’ve learned a few lessons I want to share. These insights come from hosting radio shows, including Industry Revue In the Mix on IRMIX Radio, and interviewing a wide range of industry professionals. Let’s explore some critical takeaways and tips to help you succeed when it’s your turn to be in the hot seat.
A Lesson Learned: The Importance of Preparation
A few years ago, I interviewed an artist with a major recording contract and a motion picture deal. Out of respect, I won’t name them, but this experience taught me a valuable lesson about preparation—for both the interviewer and the interviewee.
Before the interview, the artist’s PR team sent multiple emails requesting a list of questions in advance. This was unusual for me, but I understood their intent: preparation minimizes surprises. However, I prefer authentic conversations that flow naturally, so I explained that we’d be working directly from their biography. They agreed… or so I thought.
When we called them at the scheduled time, they sounded fresh and ready—despite the three-hour time difference between my studio on the East Coast and their location in California. Things started off well enough. I congratulated them on their latest single and asked about its inspiration. They stumbled. No big deal, I thought—maybe they were nervous. But as my co-host, Tee Spence, asked more questions, it became painfully clear they weren’t familiar with their own bio.
The interview quickly unraveled. What should have been a lively hour-long conversation ended in just 15 minutes. Afterward, I was frustrated. How does someone with such impressive credentials show up unprepared? I debated airing my candid post-interview remarks, where I vented my frustration. Ultimately, I left them on the cutting room floor out of professionalism, but the experience left a lasting impression.
Why I Conduct Interviews the Way I Do
As someone with a background in life coaching and extensive experience in the entertainment industry, my interview approach is intentional. I prefer to ask challenging questions that go beyond surface-level career highlights, aiming to understand where an artist’s mind is. However, I always provide the option for guests to skip a question if they are uncomfortable. I believe interviews should feel authentic rather than rehearsed. This philosophy was shaped by earlier experiences when offering pre-submitted questions led to guests preemptively answering before the interview began, throwing off the rhythm and authenticity of the conversation. To maintain spontaneity and depth, I now avoid pre-planned questions and rely on well-crafted biographies to guide discussions.
Tips for Conducting Stellar Interviews as a Singer-Songwriter
If you’re a rising star hoping to make the most of your media appearances, preparation is non-negotiable. Here are my top tips:
Know Your Bio Inside and Out
Your biography is the foundation of most interviews. Expect questions about your career journey, inspirations, and notable projects. If you wrote it, reread it. If someone else wrote it, study it. Being unfamiliar with your own story can come across as disingenuous or disorganized.Be Authentic but Prepared
It’s okay to be spontaneous, but having key talking points in mind will help you stay focused. Think about the messages you want to convey. Why did you create your latest song? What themes are important to you as an artist? Prepare thoughtful answers to common questions.Respect the Format
Whether it’s a radio, TV, or podcast interview, know the format and flow. Is it live or recorded? Will there be a co-host? Understanding the setup helps you stay comfortable and confident.Engage with Enthusiasm
Energy matters. Even if it’s early in the morning or late at night, bring your best self to the conversation. Enthusiasm is contagious, and listeners or viewers can sense it.Be Honest About Your Boundaries
If certain topics are off-limits, communicate that clearly—preferably before the interview begins. Most hosts will respect your wishes, but transparency is key.Promote Your Appearance
When you, the artist, appear on a radio show, it is particularly important to also post on your social media accounts about the interview and share any clips that the station provides you with. People like Rhymacide and Intelligent Diva understood this, and at that time, they had not been interviewed on the station—they had been featured on IRMIX Radio’s top 20 weekly countdown.
Why Advance Questions Can Be Tricky
Requesting questions in advance isn’t uncommon, but it can backfire. When answers are overly rehearsed, interviews feel stiff and unnatural. Moreover, having pre-submitted questions often leads to answering before being asked, disrupting the flow of the conversation. If you’re asked to provide potential questions, offer general themes instead—and trust yourself to respond authentically.
Final Thoughts
Interviews are more than promotional opportunities; they’re a reflection of your brand. Every appearance builds your reputation. Take them seriously, prepare diligently, and bring your best energy. You never know which conversation will lead to your next big break.
Stay ready, stay sharp, and most importantly, stay true to yourself.
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