Culted Sounds: Alex Vaughn talks about “The Hurtbook (Homegirl Pack)” & her journey to self loveE

by Juliette Eleuterio 4 months ago

by Juliette Eleuterio 4 months ago 6min

Love and heartbreak isn’t just found through romantic relationships. It can be found with friends, family, strangers you meet at a bar and share a conversation with over a Martini, and Alex Vauhgn knows this. Exploring the ups and downs of love on her latest project “The Hurtbook (Homegirl Pack)” that features the likes of Ari Lennox and Summer Walker, Alex delivers an RnB classic that’s as sensual as it is emotional. Today, we caught up with the artist to talk about the project, getting personal on tracks and the cathartic process of songwriting.

Hey Alex! Can you introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is Alex Vaughn and I am a human being who is learning to give myself grace so I can tap into my highest potential and live my best life, and show others they have what it takes to do the same thing.

Let’s talk about your latest project, “The Hurtbook (Homegirl Pack)”. How did that project come about?
I wanted a project that highlighted and embraced all of the emotional ups & downs I’ve been experiencing in this “adult puberty” space of my life. With the Homegirl Pack I wanted to stretch the project to show that there’s unity in these emotions too, and that there’s strong girl power happening in the R&B space.

In that EP, we can hear you getting raw and personal on songs like Mirage. Is it scary letting your listeners in like that?
It can be scary, but I find it to be more freeing than anything. I’ve learned the more uncomfortable I am, the better the result and even bigger “exhale”. I prefer these songs to be out in the world rather than only on replay in my head.

Do you find that music brings peace to these love stories, some of which I assume didn’t end up so well as heard in So Be It?
For the most part, yes. The music helps me turn my emotions into complete thoughts. Once I’m able to articulate how I feel about a situation, I feel much more at peace.

You went on The Hurtbook tour earlier this year with Ari Lennox. What was that experience like?
It was amazing! It was beautiful being able to be on stage night after night, doing what I love, and fine tuning as I go. Also getting front row seats to Ari Lennox every night was chef’s kiss lol. Ari is such a queen. Her team was awesome as well. It was a super inspiring first experience.

Did you have a favourite city or venue to perform in? Or a specific crowd that moved you?
I loved EVERY city I’ve performed in thus far. They all have their own special thing about them. If I had to boil it down to a top 3, I would say New Orleans, Philly, and The Bay area. The bay goes crazy.

Obviously, this project is about love, all sorts, all kinds, both the good and the bad. Would you say you have a different outlook on love now than when you did making this album?
Sure. The whole project is about embracing evolution. For starters, love and heartbreak don’t only come from romance. They can come from friendships, and your relationship with yourself. That was the biggest thing for me. Lots of the things I wrote about would be things I’d beat myself up about, rather than giving myself grace… More than anything this project has helped me unveil another layer of self-love.

You’ve collaborated on tracks with the likes of Summer Walker and Muni Long. How do you know when it’s right to make a song with another artist? Does it come from just vibing in the studio?
Honestly, it’s not too often that you’re ACTUALLY in the studio with the other artist, writing next to each other lol. It’s more of a synergy than anything. I admire and respect all 3 ladies that blessed the Deluxe, both on and off the court… That’s really important to me when collaborating with anyone.

How would you describe your take on RnB? How do you want your listeners to feel while listening to your music?
I’d say I make life music. Feelgood life music. Life is getting more real and tough, but we’re capable of conquering whatever, and I want to be that breezy, soulful, rhythmic, musical reminder. I want people to listen to my music and feel seen, comfortable to cut loose and really uncover a new layer of freedom with themselves.

What’s next for you, having just finished your American tour? Are you taking a break and relaxing after all the hard work or are you already back in the studio?
LOL please! I’m already back in the studio. I’m ready to drop new music so badly. I’m ready for more shows! This is my season of being active and exploring new opportunities! I’m more energised than anything! Relaxing is very important to me though, so I will make sure to do that very soon.