Electric violinist Susan Aquila recently unveiled her new single/music video, “No Where,” a song narrating the edgy, emotional toll of a toxic relationship.
Aquila’s dazzling display of the bow across the strings soars over the powerful melody, weaving through driving guitars riding a powerful rhythm. Her raw, rasping vocals reveal her fury and urgency – the need to break free.
Classically trained, Aquila has shared the stage with Metallica, Led Zeppelin, and Paul McCartney. Armed with her violin, she is now stepping into the limelight. Her sound is forceful, passionate, and boldly rebellious.
The video cuts from Aquila playing her electric violin in an apartment to her strutting along city streets, lighting up the atmosphere with her blistering music. Dressed in a leather bustier and thigh-high boots, Aquila shows off her wild streak, a fierceness she relishes setting loose.
XS Noize spoke with Susan Aquila to talk about her celebrated career, her definition of tone, how the video came together, and her electric violin.
What are the three things you can’t live without?
Chocolate!!! Seriously: Love, the Feeling of Freedom, and Music!
What inspired your new single/music video, “No Where?”
The song grew from a hard-hitting riff into a full-on rebellious anthem. It is about feeling trapped in a relationship that is not working yet feeling like you can’t leave. Finally, the angst grows until you say, ‘Let’s get the hell outta here.’
Who directed the video and where was it shot?
It was directed by the extremely talented Emily Hafele. We shot the video gorilla-style on the streets of West Hollywood.
You’ve played with artists like Paul McCartney, Led Zeppelin and Metallica. Is there an artist you’d like to play with if you had the chance?
Yes! If Jimi Hendrix was alive, I would love to have the ‘Hendrix Experience’ in person. I can’t pick just one! I would LOVE to play with Steve Vai, Joe Bonnamassa, and Lenny Kravitz.
How did you get started in music?
I do not come from a musical family. I was lucky to be introduced to violin and music in grade school.
Which singers/musicians influenced your sound?
Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin are my biggest influences. They were both able to express gritty emotions through soulful vocals, melodies, and timbre.
What kind of electric violin do you play?
I play a 6-string, fretted Mark Wood Viper violin shaped like a Gibson Flying V.
What is your definition of tone?
My definition of tone is very personal. Tone is the quality of sound that expresses the emotion you want at any given moment. Sometimes it’s beautiful and sweet and sometimes it may be ugly, distorted, or hard.
What can you share about your creative process?
It’s a two-layer process. First, I make sure to schedule time to work on music every day. Then I take time to let it sit and suddenly, like lightning, it all comes together.
Which do you enjoy the most: Writing, recording, practicing, or playing live?
Most definitely playing live!!! It’s the energy of having an audience that brings me the greatest joy. I love connecting with people through music and entertaining them.
What is your definition of success?
Success is being able to create, learn, and share. As long as you keep moving, you are a success.
What’s next for Susan Aquila?
I am writing and recording new songs and shooting new music videos. I hope to have a new show to take on the road by the end of the year! See you all out there!
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