Behind The Sound: Liv Hanna's Musical Odyssey

Exploring the Depths of 'lonely' and the Rising Star's Artistic Evolution.

Photo Credit: Lizzie Kristal

In the effervescent world of pop music, Liv Hanna emerges as a beacon of authenticity and creativity. As she wrapped up 2023 with her latest single, lonely, Hanna continues to redefine the boundaries of the Pop genre. This article, part of the "Behind The Sound" series, offers an intimate glimpse into the world of 20-year-old songstress Liv Hanna. It uncovers the intricate layers of her hit singles "Back To Hell" and "lonely," while charting her evolution from an enthusiastic music lover to a sensational artist on the brink of superstardom.

Liv Hanna's rise in the music industry is a testament to her unique blend of introspective songwriting and versatile vocal prowess. Her latest single, "lonely," is not just a song but a narrative that transcends its title, offering a glimpse into the paradox of a seemingly perfect life marked by underlying imperfection. Hanna explains, "'lonely' takes you behind the scenes of someone's life that people think is perfect. It highlights the club scene and life of a socialite who's always out on the town but actually feels immense loneliness." This track, meticulously crafted with the help of renowned producer Jake Sonderman, showcases Hanna's ability to interweave contrasting sounds to tell a story - a blend of flashy, wavy sounds with soft, somber tones.

Hailing from New York and currently based in Miami, FL, Hanna's journey in music began early. Influenced by the likes of Alicia Keys and Sara Bareilles, her foray into music was nurtured through voice and piano lessons, and community theater. This early exposure laid the foundation for her expansive vocal range and emotive songwriting, qualities that have earned her accolades from various media outlets.

Reflecting on her career, Hanna marks 2023 as a pivotal year. With a change in management and the release of her favorite singles, she feels a solidified image and a growing fan base. Her creative process, as she describes, is fluid and varies with each project. From voice memos to journal entries turned lyrics, Hanna's approach to songwriting is as eclectic as her musical influences. Hanna shares, "I saw a growing fan base as well as tripled numbers on my Spotify streams, and I am so excited for all that’s to come!"

Discussing her evolution as an artist, Hanna notes the shift from her earlier Bedroom and Indie Pop styles to her current Dark/Alt-Pop vibe. Influenced by artists like Amy Winehouse and Lana Del Rey, her music now mirrors her growth and life experiences. This evolution is evident in her songs, particularly in “Back To Hell” and “lonely,” which she describes as special for marking her new image.

Collaboration has been a key part of Hanna's journey. Working with sound engineers and producers like PJ, Bruce, Jake Sonderman, and Elliot Harper, she emphasizes the impact of these collaborations on her sound. Each collaborator brings a unique interpretation to her work, enriching her musical tapestry.  "I worked with PJ and Bruce at Studio 26 for “Back To Hell," and it honestly was one of the best experiences ever," Hanna shares. "Jake Sonderman, a fellow student at the Frost School of Music and a literal genius of a sound engineer, brought “lonely” to life, and I am so grateful that I am able to work with him. I am also currently working with Elliot Harper, another prodigy sound engineer whose work we will all hear very soon! Each individual that I’ve worked with interprets my work in different ways, and I love listening to what they come up with and working alongside each one of them."

Looking ahead, Hanna is excited about her upcoming projects. With singles slated for release in early 2024 and plans for more frequent performances, she is poised to take her music to new heights. Her message to fans and aspiring musicians is one of gratitude and encouragement: "Thank you!! Keep doing you! I love you guys so much!  And, to aspiring musicians: keep going."

Liv Hanna's story is not just about the rise of a pop star; it's about the power of authenticity in an industry often marked by superficiality. As she gears up for the next phase of her career, her journey serves as an inspiration for many, demonstrating that true artistry lies in the ability to weave personal experiences into universal narratives. Hanna is not just a singer; she is a storyteller whose music resonates with the depths of human experience.