We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Abby Berman. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Abby below.

Hi Abby, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

The most meaningful project that I have worked on was actually a two-part project. In 2018, after taking a long break from music, I released a short album, “Don’t Kiss the Frogs,” and paired it with a small book of poetry and lyrics called, “The Frog Kissed Me.” It was the first release I’ve ever done that was distributed in any major way. The recording and production took years, but when it was finally complete I was thrilled!

Previously, when I had recorded music, I spent a ton of money on the recordings, would get CDs made, and then they didn’t go anywhere. Only a handful of people ever heard them. To release something on a global level, that was packaged in a professional way, made it feel like my work was more valuable; like I was finally acknowledging how special my music is. This was also the first time that I felt that I was in charge of taking my craft seriously.

The album and book were both created from pieces of relationships, heartaches and growth that happened throughout my twenties. So many thoughts and emotions were woven into each note and word. I’m proud to have something tangible that represents such a time of growth in my life. They are Me.

If you get the chance, please check them out!

Abby, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’m a singer-songwriter out of Los Angeles. I love it being a musician and I love Los Angeles!

I frequently tell people that my music is not for everyone, but I’d like to think that it’s for a lot of people; People who are active listeners, who reflect and connect with art, and who are looking for something earnest.

My music is mostly piano based with thoughtful lyrics and emotive vocals. If you like Regina Spektor, Amy Winehouse or Fiona Apple, you might like my stuff!

Currently, I’m working on recording a new album that is more pop focused than what I’ve released in the past. I’ll be releasing singles on the way, so please look out for them and listen!

I’m also extremely proud of being a high school english teacher here in Los Angeles. While it’s not a career in music, I get to do something that feels meaningful and inspires me.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

I desperately desire to give people something sincere; Something real. I feel the need and responsibility to remind people that sincerity and connection really do exist.

We live in a world that seems to be spinning faster than we can handle. Our brains can’t keep up with it. We are overwhelmed with the idea that we are constantly being conned by social media, the news, AI, or anyone who seems like they can benefit from us. People need to know that there are artists in the world who are having human journeys, that are offering truth in their craft; Real people who honestly want to provide their imagination as a gift to anyone who needs it.

I also feel that artists and appreciators of the arts provide a beautiful way to connect with others. When we need healing, or reflecting, or to not feel so alone, it’s the art that replenishes and rejuvenates our hearts. It makes life richer to be able to connect with people (artists and art lovers alike) who feel as we feel and think as we think. I know that anyone who connects with my music, or the music I love, is a kindred spirit.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

I would say that the best thing that you can do for yourself and for the artist is to see them perform live.

Obviously, this can help in a financial way. But more importantly, when I perform live to people who love my music, it makes me feel the impact of what I’m doing in a dramatically intense way. It’s so validating for those of us who frequently feel that what we create isn’t noticed or appreciated. There is a magic in live performance for both the artist and audience, that anyone who has ever gone to a live show can understand.

Just to further illustrate:

One time, I recorded a live performance in my classroom during lunch. I invited any students who wanted, to observe. After performing the song for the recording, students asked me to do a full set. I loved it! I couldn’t believe that these teenagers wanted to hear more of my songs about life, love, and heartbreak. They really did!

When the bell rang for the next class to start, many students came up to thank me. What really stood out though: One student told me that she had never seen a live performance before. Her eyes were glassy, she was almost in tears. She said, “I get it now. I understand. It’s not the same.” My heart is still so full to think that she has a new understanding of the power of art and performance.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.TracingAbby.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/abbyberman
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/AbbyBermanMusic
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/AbbyBermanMusic
• Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/abby-berman
• Other: Don’t Kiss the Frogs: https://ampl.ink/dMv2k
  The Frog Kissed Me: https://linktr.ee/AbbyBermanPoetry

Image Credits

Posed photos: Carlos Ponce
www.carlosponcephoto.com

Live photos: Samantha Paige
@samanthapaper

Album and Book artwork: Erika Hernandez
@erikahcreative