Today we’d like to introduce you to Thatgirlava
Hi THATGIRLAVA, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’ve always wanted to be involved in music, starting in the 6th grade when I first tried to play the saxophone. When I was 17 and received my very first paycheck from my first job, I bought an acoustic guitar and taught myself how to play. For years, I would just play around, creating what we called “little diddies.” One day, I decided I wanted to record the songs I was writing, and that’s when I discovered Pro Tools. It began with me in my room, playing my little diddies and recording them into my laptop. Eventually, I enrolled in a year-long audio engineering course in 2015 and invested in a much more efficient setup.
However, after I graduated from the program, I lost my way and fell into alcoholism and addiction. I lost all my equipment and so much more; I lost everything.
In 2019, I was able to get sober, and I felt a strong desire to make music again. I slowly started buying more equipment. Then COVID-19 happened, giving me a lot of time to get creative. In 2021, I released my debut album, “Aviation.” I was and still am incredibly proud of that album. Seventeen-year-old Ava never thought she would actually release her own music for the world to hear. It’s crazy to me, and I am grateful.
Since my first album, I’ve released one more full-length album, an EP, seven singles, and I was featured on one single. I also have a new single coming out on Valentine’s Day—two sexy tracks for the lovebirds out there.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Struggling with addiction was debilitating, but now that I’m sober, my biggest obstacle is often myself. The imposter syndrome is real. Also, I’m not the most outgoing or social person, so I tend to work alone, and that can be a hindrance at times.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am an artist known as THATGIRLAVA. My sound is fluid, but I’ve been drawn towards a lo-fi house vibe. I’ve produced tracks for other artists, mixed and mastered as well, but I primarily compose my own music. I think I’m most proud of my latest song, “Let’s Just Leave.” I genuinely believe that with each song I release, I’m improving and evolving as an artist.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
Everything I’ve done I’ve worked for. I wish luck played a part in my story but it hasn’t.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/Avadidthat
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatgirlava
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thatgirlava/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thatgirlava_
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/user-183103232
Image Credits
Allycia Mallory
Ian Torben
Nene
