Written by Tinker Talavera
How did you come by your stage name?
It is my name so it was easy. For me, it was just keep it simple.
When did you discover your love for your craft and what made you realize you wanted to pursue a career in it?
I started singing when I was young. I really love singing and used to write and sing my own songs. I had to give up any notion of performing when I had my daughter at 20 years old because I had to support her. A few years ago I sat down and did an inventory of my life and asked myself what was the one thing that I regretted not being able to do and it was write and perform music. So, I jumped right into it.
To what or whom do you accredit your sense of style?
I sing the way I sing. I get a lot of flack for not sticking to one particular genre but I believe that we as beings are not one particular genre so how can I stick to just one? I love music and I was lucky to have all genres on the radio when I was growing up, so I found a love for most genres of music.
On your current project, how did you come up with the concept?
I wrote Missing You because I was thinking of a past relationship that was so on again/off again and how during that time the emotions were so raw and real and when we were off again there was such a longing. I thought so many other people have been through this same situation as well and then the lyrics and melody for the song started flowing out.
What are some of your greatest challenges, and what is your greatest attribute when it comes to your work ethic?
Life throws lots of challenges at you along the way. I think my greatest challenge was learning to accept who I am and to love myself with all of my flaws. Once I realized that is what I needed, I put the work in to keep evolving into a better me. I have a strong work ethic because I have a big responsibility chip inside me and I want to do a great job. It’s very easy for me to get lost in my work.
Are you the best at what you do in your opinion?
I don’t like to say this is the best or that is the best because I believe that we all have something to offer. Some people are more unique than others but that is what makes them who they are.
What are your plans for the near future?
I want to keep putting out music that people connect to, enjoy, and sing to. I love it when I get an email letting me know that someone can’t stop singing my song, or that they really connected to the lyrics.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank, any shout outs?
I would like to thank Michael Bryant for being a wonderful vocal coach and for all of his patience with me, and for agreeing to sing with me on Missing You. I love the song and the music video.
How can fans find you?
IG: monicaortizmusic
Facebook: Monica Ortiz Music
Website: www.monicaortizmusic.com
What suggestions do you have for other artist like yourself?
Keep being your most authentic you and sing what you love.
This review was originally written and posted by Muzique Magazine on April 6, 2021.