Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Lyla Joyce. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Lyla, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

The project I’m currently working on, which I like to call my “Back to My Roots” era, has been the most fulfilling thing I’ve done in a long time. Every project I’ve been part of has shaped me, but this one feels like the culmination of all those experiences, bringing me to my most authentic self.

I began my musical journey as a rocker girl, drawing inspiration from artists like Amy Lee of Evanescence and Ville Valo of HIM. Over the years, I’ve explored a variety of genres—starting with a gothic metal band, transitioning to a Blink-182/Green Day-inspired pop-punk band, then moving on to a pop/metal fusion, and even embracing a pop/country princess phase (It was a vibe!). Each era had its own purpose, but after two years in Nashville doing country music, struggling to find my place, experiencing heartbreak, losing a dear friend and my dog, and feeling like I didn’t fit into the mold that was expected of me. I realized I needed to return to my rock roots—this time, more authentically than ever.

I dug deep and embraced my rebellious, quirky spirit. Rock music was calling my name once again, and it all started with a song called “Rock n Roll Bitch,” which narrates my journey back to who I’ve always been—wild, free, and full of feisty energy. I recorded three songs in Nashville with an incredible producer, Cody Stewart, during one of the lowest points in my life. Ironically, writing from that mindset became a driving force for my music.

The song “Loser” emerged from a place of feeling jobless, hopeless, and confused, with too much time on my hands to internalize those emotions. Despite its origins, the song isn’t really serious—it’s a sarcastic take on turning a negative self-image into something positive. It’s about accepting myself as I am, embracing imperfection, and having fun with life as it is.

The last of the three Nashville recordings is my latest release, “Lover X Friend.” Inspired by a tumultuous on-and-off relationship, the song explores the uncertainty and chaos of love or what you think is love. I don’t write many love songs, but this one captured a moment in my life that I wanted to memorialize.

With many more deeply personal (maybe too personal sometimes, haha!) and authentic songs on the way, this era and project are, without a doubt, my proudest and most meaningful yet.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’ve been singing for as long as I can remember. Music has always been my passion, and I started performing at a young age. During my teens, I had the incredible opportunity to tour extensively—participating in the Warped Tour, performing in Brazil, and hitting stages all over the U.S. Those experiences shaped me as an artist and gave me a deep appreciation for the power of live music.

My inspiration often comes from real-life experiences, and I’m not afraid to dive into the darker aspects of life in my lyrics. I believe in writing truthfully, pushing boundaries, and exploring themes that might be considered unconventional. My songs are a reflection of who I am—raw, honest, and sometimes a bit out of the box.

Currently, I’m working on a rock album that I plan to release next year. This project expands on the three songs I’ve already released, and it will feature a blend of alternative, pop-punk, and rock with some heavier moments. But more than just a collection of songs, this album will tell a story—a narrative that weaves through each track and brings my personal journey to life.

What sets me apart is my commitment to authenticity. I want my music to resonate with people on a deep level, whether it’s through the lyrics, the melody, or the energy of the performance. I’m proud of the journey I’ve been on, and I’m excited to share this next chapter with my fans. My hope is that they connect with my music and see a piece of themselves in the stories I tell.

In essence, I’m an artist who isn’t afraid to be vulnerable and real. I strive to create music that not only entertains but also evokes emotion and sparks thought. As I continue to evolve, I want my fans to know that they’ll always get the truest version of me in every song I write.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned on my creative journey is that being an artist can be a lonely road, and you often have to become your own resource. I recently studied Music Business at UCLA, and it was eye-opening to break down the complexities of music law, marketing, production, and touring into actionable steps. While it’s tough to manage everything without a label or big team, I believe that with the knowledge, resilience, and hard work I’ve gained, I can still make an impact independently.

I wish I had learned earlier how important it is to be proficient with a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation). As a singer-songwriter, being able to create demos or even produce tracks that can be mixed and mastered is invaluable. Though I love working with studios and producers, it’s not always feasible, so I’m focusing on producing and demoing as much of my own music as possible.

In hindsight, if you can take control of your career and not rely too much on others, you’ll find it easier to make progress. That self-sufficiency is something I’m constantly working on.

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

Definitely! I’ve become a bit of a book collector lately, and a few have been particularly impactful in shaping my approach as an independent musician. Some of my go-tos are “All You Need to Know About the Music Business” by Donald S. Passman, “Business Basics for Musicians” by Bobby Borg, “Artist Management for the Music Business” by Paul Allen, and “12 Notes: On Life and Creativity” by Quincy Jones. For a bit of motivation, I also recommend “You Are a Badass” by Jen Sincero and “Unfu*k Yourself” by Gary John Bishop.

As an independent artist, it’s crucial to understand the business side of the music industry, especially when it comes to money and music law. These books have helped me familiarize myself with these aspects and have given me the confidence to navigate the industry more effectively. There’s nothing better than being well-informed, especially when a good business opportunity comes your way.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.lylajoyce.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lylajoycemusic/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lylajoycemusic/

Image Credits

Photographer – Robert Uncles