We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Elisabeth Duffy a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Elisabeth, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

Embarking on the journey of creating Occasionally Humans has been a deeply meaningful and transformative experience for me. The genesis of this musical venture dates back to early 2022 when the idea of a band exploring the profound nuances of the human experience started taking shape. Despite my background in learning guitar, ukulele, and omnichord, my true strengths lay in poetry and singing.

The pivotal moment came when I joined forces with my exceptionally talented friend, Alessandro Marquez. Alessandro’s impressive track record in collaborating with musicians on the production side added a layer of richness to our partnership. Armed with his knowledge of music- software, a formidable drum kit, and an impeccable ear for sound, he brought a unique dimension to our collaboration. Together, we formed a duo where my ability to envision the end project and craft lyrics seamlessly complemented his technical prowess.

The journey was not without its evolution. Various members contributed to our initial releases, but in 2023, we were fortunate to welcome Ian McDaniel into our fold. Ian, our funky bass player, brought not only musical talent but also a vibrant energy, injecting humor and joy into our creative process. Cynthia Zitter, a multitalented actor with a penchant for flute-playing, added dreamy sounds to our repertoire. Lastly, Charlie Rhoad, our synthist and occasional guitarist, contributed his keen musical ear, guiding the entire band when direction was needed.

What makes this project profoundly meaningful to me is the collaborative spirit that infuses every session. As we collectively explore the sonic landscapes of each song, we delve into the emotions they evoke and open our hearts to the listener. The synergy among all the members, each bringing their unique talents and perspectives, has been a source of immense gratitude and happiness. Occasionally Humans is not just a band; it’s a shared journey of creativity, connection, and the celebration of the human spirit. I am truly thankful for the joy and inspiration each member brings to every musical session, making this project an enduring testament to the beauty of collaboration and shared artistic exploration.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Hailing from Louisiana, my artistic odyssey began with a passion for poetry that earned me awards and a spot in the local paper. Raised in the church, I honed my vocal skills under the guidance of the marvelous Miss Mar. Despite a desire to start a band back home, I felt the constraints of NOLA’s limiting genres and the city’s confines.

My artistic education took a significant turn during high school when I attended NOCCA, the only arts conservatory in the area. There, I delved into three years of Media Arts and four years of Theatrical Design, laying the foundational blocks for my love of art direction and music production.

The yearning for change led me to Los Angeles, a magical hub teeming with creative souls. Two visits and a hurricane warning later, I packed my belongings, drove cross-country within a day, and found myself in the heart of the artistic pulse. The excitement and joy I felt then continue to fuel my journey as I navigate the world.

In my recent role with art direction, I contributed to the music video for Kucka’s “Cry Cry Cry.” The experience was enriching, surrounded by talented individuals whose creativity resonated with my soul. While not crafting my music, projects like music videos and films captivate me, offering an opportunity to bring ideas to life.

My approach to art direction involves delving deep into the core of a project, understanding its nuances, and translating the envisioned idea into tangible reality. I prefer not to dismiss ideas but to enhance or comprehend them better, a philosophy that seamlessly bleeds into the music I create and the future music videos I aspire to produce.

Currently based in LA, I am eager to collaborate with local artists to bring collective visions to life. While our existing projects are commendable, my goal is to merge storyboards with the vibrant local artistic community to create a profound visual narrative.

Beyond my personal endeavors, my mission extends to fostering a positive and uplifting community for emerging artists. Having experienced the challenges within the industry, I am committed to contributing to a future where creativity thrives in a nurturing environment.

I’m immensely proud of the strides I’ve made, and I invite you to join me on this artistic expedition. Together, let’s build a future where artistic expression knows no bounds, and the creative spirit flourishes.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

Absolutely, navigating the path of a creative journey comes with its unique set of challenges that may be hard for non-creatives to fully grasp. One significant aspect revolves around the struggle with confidence in artistic capabilities. Growing up, I often found myself surrounded by individuals whose dreams were either dismissed or overshadowed by more conventional societal norms.

The difficulty arose when people questioned the pursuit of art, often reducing it to a mere impractical endeavor. The misconception that “artists don’t make money” became a prevailing narrative. It’s essential to recognize that, like any other profession, being an artist requires passion, dedication, and time to flourish. Just as a doctor passionately invests time in studying and excelling in their field, artists too pour their hearts into their craft.

The challenge lies in conveying that the pursuit of art is not just about monetary success but about a profound love for the craft. It’s about waking up every day with a desire to create, learn, and express. This passion is a driving force that fuels artists to persist, grow, and eventually succeed.

For those outside the creative realm, understanding that artists share the same level of dedication and passion as individuals in “normal careers” is crucial. The key is to believe in oneself, to surround oneself with a supportive community that appreciates and encourages creative pursuits. It’s about finding people who light up when you enter the room, provide constructive critique, and love you for being authentic.

In essence, being an artist is a journey of continuous inspiration, perpetual learning, and an unwavering commitment to self-expression. It’s about stepping outside the ordinary, exploring the unfamiliar, and nourishing the mind and heart with diverse experiences. By doing so, the creative spirit remains vibrant, resilient, and ready to tackle the challenges inherent in the pursuit of art.

To those on a creative journey, I encourage you to hold on to your passion, surround yourself with positivity, and never let anyone diminish the spark within you. Your artistic endeavors are valid, important, and contribute to a richer, more colorful world. Always stay inspired, keep learning, and embrace the fullness that creativity brings to your heart and mind.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative, for me, is the profound connection forged through the exchange of feedback with listeners. Witnessing individuals take the time to share their thoughts on a song, unraveling their interpretations and emotions, brings an unparalleled sense of joy. Whether the feedback is positive or constructive, the fact that someone invested their attention and wanted to express their perspective is immensely gratifying.

Engaging with audiences during live shows is another dimension of this rewarding journey. Observing both new and familiar faces, each attuned to the music in their unique way, is like witnessing an ancient wheel turning in their minds. The energy of a live performance is unparalleled, and the shared experience, whether through dancing or simply existing within the same musical space, is a powerful and emotive connection.

One particularly memorable instance was at our last show, where a few new faces sought my signature on a special concert poster for the evening. It struck me as incredibly cool and served as a tangible reminder of the impact our music had on those individuals.

Moreover, the ability to inspire others within the various communities I’m a part of is a source of deep fulfillment. It goes beyond the music itself, extending to the connections made and the positive influence shared. The entire experience, from creating music to witnessing its effect on people, is something I genuinely appreciate.

In essence, the reward lies not just in the creation of art but in the expansive ripple effect it creates. It’s in the stories unraveling within the minds of listeners, the shared moments during live performances, and the inspiration cultivated within and around the creative circles. The appreciation and connection experienced throughout this journey make being an artist a truly enriching and fulfilling pursuit.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://sites.google.com/view/occasionally-humans-music/home?authuser=5
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/occasionallyhumans/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IntoTheStrawBerryFields/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elisabethlandryduffy
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCR0MjVSbPrtRBUq8YbUhWMQ
• Other: OH LinkTree : https://lnk.bio/occasionallyhumans personal instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clownfishdrinksinkwater?igsh=NGVhN2U2NjQ0Yg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Image Credits
MAIN PHOTO: Dillion Howl Other Photos: Laura Moreau Dark Green Blue Group Photo: Elisa Noemi Other Photos Editing : Elisabeth Duffy