Victoria Tyler

When did it all start?

I started singing when I was just five; it came naturally to me, and I never took any lessons. I studied classical piano for 13 years while singing in every school choir I could find. I also participated in school musicals and then college a cappella groups. It wasn’t until last year, after decades of musical and life experience, that I began writing my own music. Before that, I just never felt like I had anything to say.

If you were an advertisement, what would your slogan be?

“You don’t know unless you go.” That’s been my philosophy for years, and I actually wrote a song about it. It’s a simple concept, but one that a lot of people are afraid of because it can mean putting yourself out there without the comforts you’re used to. But what comes of always doing the same thing? The same result. And if that is what you want, fine. But there is so much out there – the people, the opportunities, the connections, that you won’t ever see if you don’t take chances and try out new things. So just go.

What does your career mean to you?

It means everything because every minute I spend writing a song or working on a social media post is a minute away from my kids. So those minutes have to be worth it. It means hard work, sacrifice, and, ultimately getting to a place where I feel satisfied that I’m contributing something positive and helpful to the world.

What is your main motivation?

My main motivation for pursuing a singing career stems from my belief that much of the music on the radio today lacks substance lyrically. I want to create music that resonates with listeners on a deeper level and ignites meaningful conversations. My children also inspire me. I want them to witness their parent setting goals and achieving them, so they understand the importance of perseverance and passion in pursuing one’s dreams.

What is the part you enjoy the most? And the worst?

The part I enjoy the most is the creative process—writing, recording, and collaborating with my producers. There’s something truly exhilarating about bringing an idea to life and expressing myself through music. On the other hand, the worst part for me is keeping up with social media. The constant demand to stay engaged and relevant can be overwhelming and detracts from the time I wish to spend focused on my music.

Who are your idols?

I draw inspiration from female singer-songwriters of the 90s like Tori Amos, Sarah McLachlan, and Alanis Morissette. They exemplified nerve and profound lyrical skill that still influence my craft today. Additionally, I admire legends like Billy Joel and Dolly Parton, whose artistry and storytelling have left a lasting impact on the music industry.

In case you need a break in your career, what else would you like to do?

Well, as you just learned, I have a few things I can fall back on. In fact, right before I started writing music, I enrolled in a business psychology program. So if I need a break from this, I’ll go back to that. But I don’t see myself needing a break from this because if you were to say to me, “Victoria, what are you?” I would answer, “a singer.” And now that I have the tool of songwriting to help me move forward, I don’t see needing a break from it for a long time to come.

Do you consider that nowadays there are more or less opportunities for new artists? Why?

That’s a complicated one to answer. On one hand, the internet and social media provide platforms for artists to share their work and reach audiences without needing traditional gatekeepers. However, the sheer volume of content can make it difficult for individual voices to stand out. This duality means that while access to exposure has increased, so has the competition.

What would your idyllic life be like?

My idyllic life would involve a balance of personal fulfillment and professional success. I envision a life where I can create meaningful music, share it with the world, and connect with my audience on a personal level. Simultaneously, I want to be present for my family, fostering a nurturing environment where my children can pursue their passions while watching me pursue mine.

What are your next projects?

Currently, I’m working on new music, focusing on crafting lyrics that reflect my thoughts and experiences. I’m also looking to collaborate with other artists to explore different styles and sounds. Additionally, I plan to enhance my social media presence, sharing more behind-the-scenes glimpses of my creative process and engaging with my audience in a more meaningful way.