Kat Harlton
Emerging Canadian roots artist Charissa, recently released her debut EP Love and Be Loved on March 25th via Coalition Music.
In the 5-track collection of songs, Charissa gets real about heartbreak, true love, pain, and ecstasy, with lyrics that testify to well-earned wisdom far beyond her years. The EP was produced by Colin Cripps (Blue Rodeo) and recorded in the large chapel at Coalition Music Studios in Toronto, with an impressive list of collaborators including Jessica Mitchell, Tom Wilson, Jesse O’Brien, and Carrie DeMaeyer.
We had the opportunity to chat with Charissa about the inspiration behind her debut EP, working with Colin Cripps and what’s next.
Kat: Can you talk about the inspiration behind your new EP “Love and Be Loved?
Charissa: Well… Being in love! “Starlit Sky” was written right before life as we know it changed in 2020 that really lit the fire and created a vibe for this EP. These songs were written during some pretty dark, unprecedented times. I was grateful to have my partner by my side through it all.
Kat: What do you hope fans take from the EP?
Charissa: Love and Be Loved is my debut EP and an introduction to me as an artist and songwriter. It’s like a big love letter being sent out into the world, to love and feel love in return. It was my light during dark times and I hope fans can feel that when they hear these songs.
Kat: What do you find is the most challenging part of your creative process?
Charissa: There are times where I have hard time settling on my lyrics and when I find myself overthinking, I’ll walk away from them for a little bit to let the idea sink in and come back to it after. I find my best lyrics come from just going with the flow and following my emotions.
Kat: What has been a career highlight for you so far? What have you learned along the way?
Charissa: Definitely recording this EP! This is something I’ve been working towards for a long time. Having someone like Colin Cripps produce my first EP and collaborating with all the talented songwriters was really special to me. Working with Colin I got better at my harmonies which you will hear lots of on these songs. We did a lot of full takes while recording and a more live off the floor approach which I really appreciate because I love the emotion you get from live performances.
Kat: What can we expect from you for the balance of 2022?
Charissa: New music and hopefully more live performances! I can’t wait to share these songs with everyone on stage. I’ve missed that human connection and I can’t wait to see everyone again!
Connect With Charissa
Website: www.thisischarissa.com
Twitter: @thisischarissa
Facebook: /thisischarissa
Instagram: @thisischarissa