Tanja shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Hi Tanja, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I’m a voracious reader- when I’m not working on music, I’m usually buried in a book. I love gothic literature and fantasy (Lord of the Rings is a favorite), and right now I’m re-reading Phantom of the Opera, which is also my all-time favorite musical.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Tanja, a Los Angeles–based pop artist and songwriter. My music blends cinematic pop with a love for literature and fantasy. I like to create songs that feel like they transport you into another world. Storytelling has always been at the heart of who I am, and I think that’s what makes my music unique: it’s rooted in books and imagination, but delivered with the energy and honesty of modern pop. I just released my single LA Boy and accompanying music video!
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
I’ll set the scene: I’m in third grade at my very first concert-Hilary Duff. I was (and still am) her biggest fan. Watching her on stage, hearing the crowd scream every lyric back to her, it just lit something in me. I’d always wanted to be a pop star, but in that moment it shifted from a dream into a kind of conviction. I felt this surge of possibility, like that was the kind of power I wanted to hold one day -not power over people, but the power to move them, to make them feel joy and connection the way she made me feel.
Do you remember a time someone truly listened to you?
For sure- my friend and closest collaborator, Claire the Joyce. In such a male-dominated industry, I’m so grateful to have her by my side. She’s the person I can always go to with a crazy idea, and instead of brushing it off, she helps me bring it to life. She’s been a steady rock in my journey and an incredible talent to work with. Most importantly, she always makes me feel truly seen and heard. Claire also founded an amazing music networking app called Open Mic that you should definitely check out!
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. How do you differentiate between fads and real foundational shifts?
I really value building a strong foundation as an artist and working toward a legacy rather than chasing quick internet virality. For me it’s always about quality over quantity, and focusing on the kind of music and career that will last beyond a passing fad.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. If immortality were real, what would you build?
I’d buy a massive plot of land and spend forever building a full-scale, screen-accurate version of Middle-earth from Lord of the Rings. And of course,I’d invite Viggo Mortensen to come live there too.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tanjaofficial.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tanjaofficial/
- Other:
Streaming Link:
Music Video:
Image Credits
Brandon Hudson/ B90 Creative
Valencia Free
