She won best new artist at the Latin Grammys. Now, Joaquina will perform alongside Andrea Bocelli

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As a movie critic with a background in music and having grown up in a family of journalists, I find Joaquina’s artistry to be a breath of fresh air in today’s social media-dominated world. Her EP, “Los Mejores Años,” showcases her thoughtful approach to songwriting and recording, standing out in an industry where many hands often touch a single song.

In a world consumed by social media facades, Joaquina’s artistry shines through the affectations.

While Olivia Rodrigo is frequently mentioned in the same breath as Joaquina, their expressions of teen angst hold distinct, introspective tones. Evidenced in her debut EP, “Los Mejores Años,” Joaquina’s dedication to crafting lyrics and music is evident throughout each track. In a music scene where numerous collaborators typically shape a song, she distinguishes herself by managing every aspect of production.

At only 20 years old, Joaquina made history as the youngest recipient of the new artist award at the 2023 Latin Grammys. Born in Venezuela and raised in Miami, this talented singer-songwriter is primed to leave a significant mark on the Latin music scene.

Before Joaquina’s performance at Andrea Bocelli’s anniversary concert in London, we had a chance to talk with her. This conversation has been revised for brevity and understanding.

How does it feel to be the youngest winner of the Latin Grammy for best new artist?

I’m truly thankful and elated to receive this recognition at the start of my artistic journey. It feels like a meaningful endorsement from my peers, setting the stage for a successful career ahead.

From your essay, which provides insights into your thinking, it seems to me that I’m privy to your thought processes. Is introspection during the creation of your art an essential aspect of your artistic expression for you?

As a musician with a lifetime of creative expression under my belt, I can attest to the profound importance of having my own personal sanctuary where I can lose myself in the art of songwriting. My studio or my quiet room has always been that special place, where the outside world fades away and all that remains is the raw emotion that pours out of me, channeled into beautiful melodies and poignant lyrics.

From observing your demonstrations, it seems that you have had a thoughtful disposition throughout your life, as indicated by your habit of jotting down your thoughts in notebooks. Could you share the source of this introspective nature? Please provide some additional insights into what often preoccupies your mind.

Growing up, I was fortunate to have parents who were both journalists. Consequently, our household was filled with open and clear communication. There were no off-limits topics in our home. I’m grateful for this upbringing and I owe thanks to my parents for nurturing an environment where I could freely express myself. My parents were always engaged in writing, reading, and sharing ideas, making intelligence a common trait in our household. It came naturally to me, and as a result, I’ve always felt the need to articulate my thoughts extensively.

I’d be happy to share my thoughts about your latest single, “Pessimist,” which offers a tantalizing sneak peek into your upcoming album. As I listen to the track, I can’t help but be drawn in by its raw, introspective lyrics and haunting melody.

Last year, in a Madrid hotel room, I penned down the melancholic ballad titled “Pesimista.” It was my initial solo musical journey beyond familiar grounds – performing at schools, auditoriums, cafeterias. Suddenly, I felt an overwhelming sense of accomplishment and realization. Sitting in that solitary space, miles away from home, family, city, I was struck by the profound absence of a particular someone. The distance amplified my longing for them, making me acutely aware that their departure could shatter me into pieces.

(Maria Zarate)

What can we expect from the first album that you’re releasing?

At the moment, I’m right in the midst of a process. Being 19, I find myself at a pivotal point in my life’s journey. I’m not exactly old, but I’m not particularly young either. Somewhere in between, this stage can feel quite awkward. It’s an enlightening time filled with new discoveries about myself. (Note: “conocimiento” translates to “knowledge” or “insight” in English.)

How about this instead?: Could you describe the experience of performing at Andrea Bocelli’s 30th anniversary concert in London for me?

I cannot express in words how profoundly grateful I feel for this opportunity. Being in the presence of such a legendary and iconic figure is truly a blessing. Adding to that, being the only Latin person in this esteemed circle is both an honor and a responsibility that I take seriously. I am preparing myself thoroughly for this occasion, knowing full well the respect and importance it deserves. Frankly, it’s hard to fully comprehend the magnitude of this experience. It’s a moment that will undoubtedly shape my life in ways I can hardly imagine.

I can only imagine the sense of awe and excitement you must feel working alongside someone who has worked with some of the most renowned artists in the industry. It wasn’t so long ago that you too embarked on your musical journey, graduating from prestigious institutions like the Art House Academy and the Abbey Road Institute under the tutelage of Maestro Julio Reyes Copello.

I’ve had quite an unexpected turn of events in my musical journey during the pandemic. I was just plugging away at school and sharing some demos on YouTube. Then, out of nowhere, I got the opportunity to meet a renowned producer and send him one of my demos. I couldn’t believe it when he liked it and invited me to join his program!

“Could you share your goals and aspirations for personal growth, as well as your vision of what your career might become over the next decade?”

Growing up, I felt a deep longing to create music and share it with the world. It started as a hobby when I was just 15 years old, releasing my songs for the first time. But even then, I yearned for the pressure of having a dedicated team and supporters who believed in my art as much as I did. My friends didn’t see it, nor did anyone else but my family.

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2024-07-18 20:55