by martina rexrode
photo courtesy of taela
TAELA is an artist who is unapologetic in how she feels her emotions, no matter how big or overwhelming. Born and raised in Missouri, TAELA has been striving to create music that people can feel in their souls since she saw her mom lose herself in Joss Stone songs when she was younger. Her latest single “beetlejuice (dead to me)” is another step on that journey with a music video to go along with it. We talked with TAELA about this single and the fantastical inspiration behind it as well as her goals and the evolution of her style.
It’s probably pretty obvious from the, title but tell us about the inspiration behind your latest single “beetlejuice (dead to me).”
TAELA: “A couple months ago I had a dinner reservation at the Tim Burton restaurant Beetle House and I was so excited to go. I was in a studio session a couple hours before the reservation when I got a call saying the kitchen had flooded so they had to close it down. I was so bummed out and couldn’t stay focused during my writing, so I decided to pivot and challenge myself to write a Tim Burton inspired song. Beetlejuice is my favorite movie, I couldn’t stop thinking about the scene where he says, ‘I’m tellin’ ya, honey, she meant nothing to me! Nothing at all!’ And the lyrics just started flowing.”
Did the idea of comparing a line by Beetlejuice to a specific type of ex in a relationship come fairly quickly to you? What was the writing process like?
TAELA: “I had been wanting to write a song about an ex trying to crawl out of their grave for a while. Comparing my toxic ex to a ghost that’s trying to haunt me really helped me move on. I knew I needed to put that concept into lyrics and share it with the world.”
Have you been inspired by movies and other media for songs in the past or is this the first time you’ve brought something like this to life?
TAELA: “This is the first time! I definitely feel like I’ve unlocked something now, though. I’m sure more movie inspired songs will be happening in the future.”
Who do you hope to reach with this single?
TAELA: “Anyone who needs to cut ties with somebody who brings darkness into their life. Whether it’s a family member, friend, ex, coworker. I hope whoever needs it is able to listen to this song and quit giving their past opportunities to hurt them.”
How does it feel to have “beetlejuice (dead to me)” out in the world along with the music video?
TAELA: “It feels amazing! Like the start of a new era.”
Has your personal style evolved since the start of your career? Do you find your personal style bleeding into your musical sound or vice versa?
TAELA: “It’s evolved so much. I used to be so scared of my sexier, feminine side. I didn’t know how to find a balance between that and the tomboy/emo style I’ve always had — I didn’t think it was even allowed to be both. It’s definitely bled into my musical sound! I really feel like my music fully represents exactly who I am now which is really incredible.”
Who are some of your favorite badass artists from the past or making music today?
TAELA: “Joss Stone will always be my favorite artist. She went against the grain and wrote about really uncomfortable but important topics when that wasn’t really a thing and I’m forever inspired. Sleep Token is 100% my favorite band! I listen to them every day. Addicted.”
What is the biggest goal you hope to achieve from here?
TAELA: “My main goal with all of this is to tell my story exactly how it is and reach people who need to hear it. I just want to be a safe place for people to feel things.”