Rocker girl turned Dance artist, Teesa, is defining her own rock stardom within the club circuit. Holding her own in DJ booths and live performances, she's building support from the underground up.
Teesa's story began in Japan. Adopted into a U.S. military family, she moved across the grid. Taking in cultures, scribbling in notebook pages, she found her rhythm banging on guitars on street corners. Eventually finding her way to Los Angeles, she fell in love with the nightlife. Always eager to pull her guitar amps onto the dance floor, her unique look and voice are mesmerizing enough. Her songwriting is always charged by the raw energy around her. Teesa's emotionally driven lyrics sit on top of a heavy bed of electronic beats, rave chords, and guitars. Look out for this new artist's E.P. 2012!
Teesa's Rebel E.P. is NOW AVAILABLE ON iTUNES! Download and share!
http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/rebel-ep/id536913924
Singer Teesa released her second single for 2012, “Drug”. It’s a heavy electro-dance rocker anthem that draws parallels between a boy toy and drugs. She’s looking for a fix of love and getting strung out on it. Looking for this hit. You can get the single FREE here.
Read more: http://www.channelapa.com/2012/04/drug-by-teesa.html#ixzz1tqSYmU4s
In January 2011, I had the privilege to review the debut EP from up-and-coming pop star Teesa. Her
electro-sonic melodies combined with catchy lyrics showcased the pop star's ability to create amazing pop songs. The album have garnered positive praise and was even selected as one of the best albums in last year's Cream of the Crop list.
The hard working songwriter is currently working on brand new music for she is on the verge for a breakout year. Recently I was able to talk to Teesa about her new music, her favorite albums and what's in store for her in 2012.
1. From listening to your music, your brand of pop music can be described as "futuristic power pop". Have you always wanted to be a pop star?
I just consider myself an artist. I write music and lyrics with my guitar or piano, then transform them later down the line. The last E.P. you heard of mine definitely dove into futuristic fantasy realms. I have a very nerdy side, as well as a heavy emotional side. But my focus is heavily on strong melodies and effortless feeling, unique lyrics. In the end, I guess I'm making Pop music!
2. A few years ago, you were in an indie rock band called Trey's Parade. What made you decide to go from indie rock to dance pop? Was the transition from genre to another difficult?
I think as a creative person, I'm always naturally evolving. But to be honest, I think it was L.A. that made this switch for me lol! I got introduced to the aspect of the music industry where people were hammering out tunes within hours and then got put on the radio the following weekend. It was a brilliant complex system that I felt really challenged by. I used to consider myself a music nerd, more experimental. But at the end of the day, I want my messages to be heard. And learning to write Pop music really helped that. My creative process is always focused on energy, rock and roll is energy. Whether it's from guitars or a synth beat.
3. What inspires you? Who are your influences?
Lately, I feel like a remote controlled car, where my emotions are the antenna. My moods inspire my music and fashion. Lately I've been influenced by the early 90's grunge wave as far as guitar tones and song structure, as well as electronic music from Japan and Korea.
4. Who are you currently listening? Any favorite albums?
Umm, I've recently been listening to a lot of Gotye, Fiona Apple, and K-Pop. My favorite group is SHINee. I've had Coldplay's "Paradise" on repeat since it came out for some reason.
5. What are your views on the constant evolution of the internet and it's impact on the landscape of music?
I mean, I've always pursued music independently mostly with tools from the internet. Everything is accessible to listeners, which is good for exposure, but not as much for longevity. I think it makes an artist have to work harder, continuously delivering for fans because they have shorter attention spans.
6. You are currently in the process of recording new music? What can we expect on the upcoming EP? Will there be a change in your sound?
Yes! I'm working on a new E.P. I am using a lot of different influences compared to the last release. I guess you could say it's a fusion of my Indie rock background flipped with the heavy dance side. I think Pop music needs a dose of heavy rawness. You can expect more guitars and punk messaging. I'm very excited with how the music is evolving!
7. Is there a possibility that any of your music will be pressed on vinyl one day?
Yeah, I hope so! That's when ya know you've made something right.
8. As an artist, what do you hope to achieve with your music?
I just want my music to make a difference to someone. Inspire, discover, or fuel their emotions.
9. Which artist would you be eager to work with in the future? What is your dream collaboration?
Prince! Yup, his name is Prince, and he is funky.
10. What are your plans for 2012? Will you be touring?
Yes! I actually have a few performances lined up this year. Mostly in major city dance clubs and a few concerts. So far I've been heavily supported by the LGBT and Asian American communities, but I'm hoping to expand to everywhere listeners are!
Teesa's Top 5 Influential Albums
Purple Rain by Prince
He is everything. Singer, musician, fashion icon, sex icon. This album taught me about the importance of a good riff.
Thriller by Michael Jackson
Undeniable. Michael has THE most expressive voice, and Quincy's arrangements are timeless.
Tragic Kingdom by No Doubt
Gwen's explosive raw energy and boldness built me up as a little girl.
Pinkerton by Weezer
An overlooked masterpiece of a Power Rock album!
Greatest Hits 1 by Queen
There's a lot of great Queen albums, but I played their Greatest Hits album like an addict. No one can write an anthem like Freddie can
Her latest single, "Follow UR Heart" is available for download at Teesa's official website
Singer Teesa is back with a new electro pop dance single for 2012 called “Follow Ur Heart”. Not only does she sing on the track, but she also puts her new skills to use behind the camera. This was her first endeavor with directing and editing to share her personal story to help bring to life the message of the song. She shows you her musical journey by following her heart and encourages you to follow your heart too. Get ready to party with stary Hollywood. You can download the song FREE here.
Read more: http://www.channelapa.com/2012/02/follow-ur-heart-by-teesa.html#ixzz1nd38nOYa
a-Tunes.net
Teesa has posted up a short clip of her upcoming single, “Behind the Scenes”. The dance/techno track is high energy, as expected, but with a 80′s glam-pop type of feel to it. The eclectic artist calls it her “most honest song yet”. Look for it to officially drop soon.
http://snd.sc/nuGEdq
Singer Teesa made an amazing acoustic cover of her own song “Captive“. She gives you a completely different perspective of her musical range. Her acoustic cover provides a more emotional take on he single about living inside the walls of heartbreak. It’s incredible what Teesa can do with a piano and guitar versus a full blown set for a music video. No word yet if she’ll release this version of her song.
Read more: http://www.channelapa.com/2011/10/captive-acoustic-music-video-by-teesa.html#ixzz1b9kepOzW
CHANNEL APA (Broadcasting Asian America)
Pop singer Teesa released her fan funded and long awaited music video for her song “Captive” off her self-titled EP. The video features futuristic visuals with an upbeat vibe as she sings about living inside the walls of heartbreak in her dark and silvery world. She soon breaks out of the her confines and sees a whole new colorful world of opportunity. Not only does Teesa sing, but she also demonstrates her abilities to a dance and rock an electric guitar in the video. You can get the song on . It’s time to get captivated by Teesa.
Read more: http://www.channelapa.com/2011/09/captive-music-video-by-teesa.html#ixzz1b9kA53dQ
Hollywood Knights Celebrity Basketball Tournament Half-Time performance! Mater Del High School in Santa Ana, CA
Teesa and Rodney Thurman performing at Howl at the Moon at Universal City Walk Studio City, CA. Get tickets at the door!
Celebrating the premiere of "Follow Ur Heart" Music Video at the very club the video was shot at! Teesa's favorite dancefloor, GAMeBoi in Weat Hollywood. Video will premiere at midnight!
8911 Santa Monica Blvd. West Hollywood, CA 90069
The EndUp
401 6th Street at Harrison
San Francisco, CA 94708
The CRIB (18+ club)
715 harrison street @ 3rd street
san francisco, ca 94107
1459 18th Street #141
San Francisco, CA 94107
Club MIST
316 11th Street
San Francisco, CA 94103
Teesa's performing an intimate solo performance at the Tuesday Night Cafe Project. Located in Little Tokyo of Los Angeles 120 Judge John Aiso St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Debuting her new Dance Rocker EP "REBEL" in the heart of West Hollywood at The Factory! Be prepared to dance wild at this historic Dance Diva venue!
FACTORY - 652 N. La Peer Drive, West Hollywood, CA 90069
Celebrate the debut of Teesa's performance of her newest single, "Rebel". As well as the launching of her new EP "Rebel" available on iTunes June 2012!!!
RAGE
8911 Santa Monica Blvd
West Hollywood, CA 90069
Teesa will be performing to the world's largest gathering of LGBT community at SAN FRANCISCO PRIDE! Performing on the Asian & Pacific Islander stage, time is still TBD.
Teesa is headlining "Asia's Got Talent" event at UCLA 12pm U-SU Plaza!
UCLA 405 Hilgard Ave Los Angeles, CA 90095