Great to have you on Xttrawave! Please, introduce yourself.
Hey Xttrawave! My name’s Trynket, and I’m an urban pop artist in Los Angeles. I like to sing, write songs, play keyboards and synthesizers, and direct music videos. I also have two cats and a parrot that are my world haha.
Is there any special meaning to your artist name?
Trynket comes from one of my favorite words in the English language – “trinket” – which means “a small ornament or item of jewelry that is of little value.” Although the word is often associated with items “of little value,” I actually very much value and treasure all of the trinkets, souvenirs, and special keepsakes I’ve collected over the years because they all have high sentimental value for me and remind me of some of my favorite memories in life. For me, all of my trinkets are precious and priceless. I think I got the habit of collecting from my mom because she’s always loved collecting memorabilia. Maybe one day I’ll show my trinket collection to everyone!
What got you into music and made you realize that it was your chosen path?
I grew up in a musical household where my mom and dad were always singing and playing guitar and teaching me songs, so my love for music pretty much started ever since I could breathe. But I think what really solidified my choice in pursuing music was when I started writing my own songs after my mom convinced me to start singing at church and take piano lessons when I was five. I started writing my own stuff when I was around seven.
Tell us about your new song “Downbeat” and the story behind it!
“Downbeat” is my latest single that I released on Sept 17th (on both my mom’s AND sister’s birthday!). In musical terms, the word “downbeat” means “the first beat of a measure,” and in this single I use it to represent music. My song “Downbeat” is basically a celebration of music and how it can empower us and change us and unite all of us – no matter our background or what part of the world we live in – even in the most difficult times of our lives. It also celebrates womanhood and the island life I was born into (I was born on an island called “Cebu” in Philippines).
What makes your music unique? And how would you describe it?
I love synth pop music from the 80s and also R&B and hiphop from the 90s, so I think these influences tend to surface through my music and add such a different vibe to the modern pop songs I write now. I used to ONLY write electronic pop and synth pop songs when I was younger, but I’m very happy that the new material incorporates more of my urban influences and soulful vocals which is how I naturally sing. I feel like what I’m doing now really represents who I am.
Do you play any instruments? And why do you love it?
Yes! I play mainly piano and synth keyboards and a little bit of guitar and drums. When I first started taking piano lessons when I was a kid, I actually didn’t like it at all but this all changed when I learned how to make my own songs on the piano. I love playing instruments because it’s so fun to create songs with them!
Who are your biggest musical influences? And any particular artist/band you would like to collaborate with in the future?
I would say my biggest musical influences are Michael Jackson, Depeche Mode, Stevie Wonder, and Aaliyah. And my biggest vocal influences are Mariah Carey, Beyonce, Rihanna, & Whitney Houston. I would absolutely LOVE to collaborate with Depeche Mode one day. They are my favorite band in the whole world, and I am still obsessed with their music to this day.
Which is the best moment in your musical career that you’re most proud of?
Ooh that’s a hard one! I loved loved loved performing at some of LA’s legendary venues – the Whisky A Go Go, The Mint, The Hotel Café, The Viper Room, etc. But I think I’m always the most proud and most excited when I get to release a new song or new music video. I am EXTREMELY proud of my recent release “Downbeat” and everyone who was involved in the creation of this song and video! It was so much fun to create and everyone who worked on this project is so gifted and amazing. The best part of this whole journey, for me, is really just surrounding myself with like-minded creatives and people who are positive and super talented.
How do you balance your music with other obligations – family, friends or work?
I’m not perfect at this, but I think what helps me balance everything is just staying organized. If there’s one thing I’m OCD about, it’s organizing my daily schedule and tasks which is soooo boring but it helps make a busy life so much less complicated! There was a time when I was working four survival jobs and simultaneously playing shows, recording and releasing music, and still making time for family and friends – and I could do all of this because of time management. If something is truly important to you, you’ll make it happen and you’ll for sure make time for it. All the other “little stuff” can always be done later.
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians?
Keep creating and keep going! The more you practice and the more you “do,” the more you will master your craft – but also remember to pace yourself and to take breaks when needed so you take care of yourself and don’t burn out. Also, determine exactly WHY you’re pursuing music and what your exact goals are. The more you map everything out, the faster you’ll reach your goals. And finally – Google everything! Knowledge about this crazy industry is key and it’s literally at our fingertips. I’m still learning every single day and will always be learning.
If you had one message to give to your fans, what would it be?
I LOVE YOU GUYS SO MUCH!!!!!!!!!!!! You don’t even know how much you guys light up my day every day. I appreciate every single message, every email, every video you guys send me and I can’t wait to release more music for you guys soon!
What’s next for you? Any upcoming projects?
I *might* be dropping another new single soon…and I *might* be working on some new web series projects that I can’t wait to talk about soon! I’m also excited to play more shows in 2021 (if it’s more safe out to play – God-willing!). Everyone who’s on my socials will always get the first updates, so stay tuned y’all!!
