Spiritual pop artist Cynthia Angelica has always been fascinated by language, including the fact that simple changes in diction, volume, stress, and context can create vastly different meaning. Rediscovering herself through music after a more than decade-long career as an executive ghostwriter, Cynthia Angelica notes that her debut album, Fears and Dreams, represents the first time her voice is her own – with no strings attached. Growing up in a small town, Cynthia Angelica, a Maryland native, turned to music as a creative outlet. She first experienced the atmosphere changing power of music while growing up in the Black church, citing gospel artists Richard Smallwood, Kirk Franklin, and CeCe Winans as early influences.
By Kamil Bobin
Discovered via Musosoup
Hello Cynthia Angelica. What made you want to become a musician?
Thanks for having me. I’m a lifelong creative, and music is a part of my foundation. It has been for as long as I can remember. From growing up in the Black church to playing with my family band for a stretch, which feels nostalgic to think about now. For me, being a musician is tantamount to being a storyteller. Until recently, much of my work has been private and behind the scenes. My forthcoming album, Fears and Dreams, represents the first time I am coming forward with a message of my own to share, which is equally exciting and daunting.
Who helped you most in your musical journey?
My younger brother Andrew is a musical prodigy. Growing up, Andrew taught me to play electric guitar, bass, and drums – mostly to accompany him and my family when we played as a church band – but the lessons stick with me to this day. I’ve been focused on piano for my current project, but it really helps to have an understanding of the role of other instruments, having played them previously, while in the studio and when working with other musicians.
In addition to Andrew, my Dad nurtured creativity within me from childhood. My Dad sings and plays some piano. He would take my brothers and me on regular trips to Guitar Center after church on Sundays to get deals on the latest music gear. My Mom came along for the ride. He also took us to our first concerts – Christian rock, which believe it or not, was cutting edge for our conservative faith community. Bands like Pillar, Skillet, and Demon Hunter. After that, there was no turning back.
Your latest release is 'Peace Like Snow'. Can you share with us the background of its creation, and did any unusual things happen during its creation?
Yes, of course. The inspiration for ‘Peace Like Snow’ was spontaneous. In September, with the holidays approaching, I was thinking of how we lose the childhood wonder of Christmas as we get older. I was also thinking about how the holidays carry different meaning for each of us – from joy to sadness and belonging to isolation. All of these feelings are wrapped up in the song.
I then reached out to my producer, Dave Mallen of Innovation Station Music, and asked if we could schedule some time. A fun fact: since the song was written and rolled out rather quickly, my drummer, Carson Groenewold, accompanied me to the studio on the same day that I recorded piano and vocals, which is not at all typical. He had not heard the song previously, so his drum parts – which are amazing – are completely spontaneous. You could not ask for anything better if we had months to prepare. Take another listen for yourself.
What social issues are you most passionate about?
I’m a proponent of equity. As a Black person, as a woman, and as a creative. Who we are – our background, our demographic, our socio-economic status – affects how we are perceived in society and how we are able to move about in the world. History, as well as our current environment, shows us that there marked gaps in the ability of each individual to have equitable access and opportunity. Through my music, and my work in other industries like higher education, I aim to be a voice that calls us to strive for better.
Is there a hidden meaning in any of your music?
I’m a spiritual pop artist, and my music is inspired. There are mechanics to the songwriting process that can be explained concretely, and there is also something of the divine, which is intriguing to me. After my songs are fully written, I often analyze them. I’m a professional writer, so let me just say that I’m incorrigible. I sometimes find myself impressed by the symbolism and hidden layers within the compositions that I was not even fully conscious of while writing. So to answer your question, yes, but I am still demystifying it myself. Common themes center around faith, overcoming fear, and embracing your authentic self unapologetically.
What’s an average day like for you?
Currently, I am a full-time higher education ghostwriter, so my average day begins with tackling projects on that front. Constant changing priorities are the norm. But even before that, first thing in the morning, I reserve a space for meditation, prayer, and a workout. My day automatically feels more promising after that ritual.
The evening is when I catch up on things that I missed on the music side – everything from logging into Notion and ensuring that projects are progressing, meeting with my graphic designer and other collaborators, responding to emails and social media comments, engaging in training to learn the music business, practicing vocals and piano, and penning articles to highlight fellow independent musicians for Alchemical Records, a D.C.-based publication. A lot. Before I retire for the night, I intentionally try to carve out at least a little bit of time to connect meaningfully with family and friends. That’s so important to stay grounded.
Please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans.
I try to be authentic when communicating with anyone – whether that be a friend or a fan. I am an introvert, so I’m most comfortable with smaller interactions, where I feel like there is room to be heard. When I respond to a comment on social media, or introduce myself to someone at an event, I’m always mindful of doing so with care. I do think that part of this sensitivity comes from being a long-time ghostwriter and speechwriter. To be effective in those roles, you need to be able to get into someone else’s head and write from a place that speaks to a specific target audience in a compelling way.
What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?
I would encourage emerging artists like me to know their worth. Even as you’re learning and growing. It’s easy when you’re not yet seasoned to be swayed by other people’s impressions, but discernment is key.
A while back, I entered one of my unreleased songs from the album into a prominent songwriting contest. The powers that be told me that my sound is warm, but that it is predictable, offering little distinction and originality. Their recommendation was for me to go back to the drawing board.
When you’re faced with critique, how you respond is important. After giving myself time to process from a more objective stance, I chose to believe in the originality of my sound. I think it is, in fact, my point of distinction. I’ve learned to receive what is constructive and shake the dust off my feet with whatever remains.
What are your plans for the future?
I’m excited about 2023. I have a couple more singles lined up from my debut album, Fears and Dreams, before I roll out the full project. I’m also in the planning stages for a few intimate live shows that will allow me to introduce my music to wider audiences. And there will be a few surprises, too.