Daily Inspiration: Meet Amber Fornoles

Today we’d like to introduce you to Amber Fornoles.

Hi Amber, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I am a 26 year old singer songwriter from the Bay Area. My music is a mix of pop, folk, alt, rock, and jazz. I was particularly inspired by dodie to start writing my own songs in 2017. My video “A Very Bisexual Song” reached over 77k views which helped me gain a following. After being invited to my first open mic as a featured artist, my music career jumpstarted. I recorded 2 studio EP’s with a Grammy award winner and Berklee College of Music alumni’s. I finally released my debut studio album, “Handle With Care” this August on the 28th.

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?
I wasn’t able to make the music I wanted to at first. At the time, I struggled with undiagnosed OCD. I constantly faced hours of rumination and avoided the things I loved most. Now with a professional diagnosis and proper treatment, I’m able to create music freely. I still find myself ruminating and wanting to quit music from time to time, but I am confident that I will stick to my values and continue doing what I love.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’ve written over 80 songs since I first started writing in high school. My favorite instrument to write on is the baritone ukulele which is essentially the last 4 strings of a guitar. I’m best known for my single “A Very Bisexual Song.” I’ve gotten a lot of comments saying that people have used my song to come out to their loved ones, which is an incredible honor. I have to say I’m proudest of my new album. It is a collection of all my favorite songs over the last 9 years. I actually had my friend, Izzy Snyder, do the artwork for my album. It was made to be in a physical form so a CD or vinyl gives you the full experience. I think what sets me apart from others is my honesty and willingness to melt genres. I am very open about my sexuality and my mental health. I think it is so important for others to be able to see themselves in the art they consume. Representation truly matters and I like to think that I’m doing my part in helping others that way.

Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
As an artist, I constantly take risks. Music takes a lot of time and money so it’s always a bargain whether it’ll be worth it. In the end, creating music from the heart always wins. I have been rejected countless times. That said, the people who do like my music welcome me with open arms. My song, “Garden Fairy,” has been ranked on the A-List on Amazing Radio next to beabadoobee. I have been in the Top 20 charts on ALT-Q radio for weeks. I have also been featured on multiple radio shows. It’s always a risk to put yourself out there but hearing a bunch of “no’s” is better than giving up on a “yes.”

Pricing:

• $15 CD’s
• $30 vinyls (not available yet)

Contact Info:

• Website: https://amberfornolesmusic.com/home
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amberfornoles/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amber.fornoles
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amber-fornoles-065752255
• Twitter: https://x.com/avf_2000
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@amberfornoles
• Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2x0crwDlDlxH3qfRa1uHxZ

Image Credits
Photography: Sina Zieminska
Cover Art: Izzy Snyder