Interview with Tatum Treffeisen

What’s the story behind your latest song/album?

I actually started writing “Turn Back” years ago but I never did anything with it… never recorded it or played it for anyone. It was just one of many songs hanging out in my songbook that I didn’t think were worth bringing out into the world. But this year, I woke up one morning with the chorus of “Turn Back” in my head and I thought… hmm, I kinda like this… maybe it’s worth playing around with again. So, I rewrote the song. The chorus stayed exactly the same but the verses and bridge completely changed to reflect my life now: what I’ve been through and where I am as a songwriter. Working on “Turn Back” felt like collaborating with my younger self, which was a beautiful experience.

How has your creative process evolved over the years?

My songwriting process has remained pretty consistent. My best songs come quickly, they pour out of me. I nail the melody and progression of the song first and then focus on building out the lyrics. Lately, I’ve been working on expanding my creativity and being open to all the creativity that lies inside me and that can flow through me. I’m reading the book, “The Artist’s Way” by Julia Cameron and giving myself support and permission to nurture my artist child and reach my creative potential. It may be too early to say but I feel like it’s already working… (new song coming in 2026 that I’m REALLY excited about).

Is there a specific moment in your career that felt like a turning point?

This year, I’ve consumed a lot of material that basically told me… you can’t live your dream life if your fear of judgement is stronger than your desires. This was a huge turning point for me in how I approach my music and everything that goes along with it. I’m an indie musician, and I’m a team of one. I wear so many hats as singer-songwriter, producer, promoter, publicist, admin, stylist, content creator, etc. A lot of what I do involves sharing myself with people and in today’s world, it feels like no matter what anyone does, there is someone who has something negative to say about it. I used to let that fear keep me contained. I used to let it keep me quiet about what I want and who I am. But I’m not afraid anymore, because my dreams are stronger than my fear of judgement. This is a super important realization for me not only when it comes to music but for many aspects of my life.

What’s one misconception people have about being a musician?

I think a lot of people don’t know that production is what makes a song. Yes, the bones of the song are crucial but it’s the production that people fall in love with, and there are so many production decisions that can transform the trajectory of a show. It’s incredible to me. That’s what I love producing my own music and learning more and more about it.

Who or what has been inspiring your music lately?

Other artists! I LOVE music, and I spend so much time listening to it. This year especially, I’ve been listening a lot to Lorde, Ariana Grande, sombr, Mon Rovia, RAYE, Tame Impala, BANKS, Djo, Renee Rapp, Demi Lovato… I could go on and on. And there’s something in each artist that inspires me whether it’s their honest lyrics, vocals, production, performances, etc. It’s their uniqueness and creativity that inspires me to find that in myself.

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