Siena Bella
Siena Bella is a pop star for the digital age. The Cleveland, Ohio native with over 1.2 million social media followers is a multifaceted talent, succeeding in both the music and entertainment industry. Songs like “Walking On the Moon” and “Skin” brilliantly showcase her knack for music-making– this, coupled with a mind for content creation makes her truly one-of-a-kind. From songs covers to dance trends to her signature driveway transitions, Siena never fails to impress. Her latest song, “Lights Out,” delivers more of the same, earning the artist a spot on Spotify’s Fresh Finds: Pop playlist! We recently spoke to Siena about her latest single, TikTok creation, and more!
Tell us a little bit about yourself! How did you get started making music?
I know this sounds cliche, but I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t always thinking about music. My grandmother ran a performing arts center for over 50 years and my mom was a singer and performer, so naturally, it became my life! I have pictures of me on stage from when I was two years old! Now at nineteen, I could not be more thankful that music is what I still get to work on every single day.
First, we have to touch on your latest song: “Lights Out” is stellar! Can you walk us through the inspiration for the song?
Thank you so much! This might sound crazy but I actually wrote the song in January of this year after I had been hit by a car while I was stopped at a red light. Thank God, no one was injured, but ever since that accident months ago I still have such anxiety when I drive. I am always telling myself I am going to get hit again, so I wrote the song based on when something bad happens to us (car accident, losing someone, getting cheated on, etc) it’s that one event that “turns the lights out” and because of that, then that voice in our head is always stressing us out even more. Basically, the song is about overthinking and hurting your own self from your anxiety and worries. I feel that so many of us can relate to that feeling.
And how did that translate into the music video?
The song translates to the video mostly in the scenes with the masks around me, those really portray the idea of overthinking. Most of the video was actually shot in a U-Haul that we had parked in my driveway for a couple of days, sometimes you have to get creative especially when you have a low budget haha!
Click to watch the “Lights Out” music video!
Was there anything different about your musical process this time around?
I actually joke a lot about the irony of the tears on my face for the cover art and video of this song, because I cried writing it so many times! This song took me a lot longer than most because I rewrote it so many times. I am a perfectionist and this song was something I really wanted to make as perfect as I could, before letting it go. So after many real tears and rewriting it in my room, I finally felt ready to share it.
How does the typical Siena Bella song come together?
Every song is so different! A lot of times I start with a few guitar chords then I get melody ideas and lyrics and decide where I would hear different sounds. Sometimes, I dream up the concept of the music video and write to what I envision the song to be. After a lot of brainstorming, writing, and rewriting I bring them to the studio to make that all come to life.
You’re a figurehead in the growing Music TikTok Creator Industry. What has it been like to blow up on the app?
TikTok is crazy! It is such an amazing opportunity for people all over the world to put themselves out there. I started posting on the app regularly last fall, I had a goal and I wouldn’t let myself give up. I am still nowhere near where I want to be, but I am so unbelievably thankful to everyone that supports me.
With such a huge social following, is there ever any pressure to make content?
I used to think that the more followers I would have, the less I would have to “try” for TikTok. It seemed like that was the way it worked, but now I feel a little bit more pressure, kind of like “ I have a lot of people supporting me, I have to make them happy and proud!” It’s more pressure than I put on myself to keep evolving and being better.
Does TikTok play a role in the music that you create?
I don’t think it plays a role in the production, but definitely the more friends and supporters I meet through TikTok the more excited I am for them to hear my music. Before my latest release, “Lights Out” while I was finishing the song and making the music video I was really thinking of what my supporters on TikTok would think and if they would like it. I have a whole new perspective now that my music isn’t just for me anymore! I have people that I want to make proud and touch in some way.
Do you ever encounter writer’s block?
All the time! I find it because I go back and forth between content and music all day…I have nothing to write about since that is my life!
How do you overcome that?
I have to just take a break whether it's for a day, or a weekend, where I don’t listen to music. The worst is when I have a long drive, but I still don’t let myself play music. When you're only around music all day every day, your head needs a break. Then when you eventually come back to it, you feel different about the song.
What are some things you enjoy doing outside of music/content creation?
My life is basically music, content, family, sleep. When I’m not working on music I spend time with my family! And my dogs and cats.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
To be authentic! Sometimes, we like to be perceived in a way that isn’t truly us, especially on social media. It is so much more refreshing for myself, and the people receiving it when it is honest and true. I want my viewers to be able to know the real me and vice versa.
Lastly, what can we expect from you for the rest of 2021?
Definitely more music!!!! I write every single day and I am already planning my next release!!
(also some more TikToks too of course)
When Siena Bella makes it to LA, ______________.
She’s going to make Cleveland proud!