Songwriters Hall of Fame Skylar Grey – HuffPost 12.30.11

Mike Ragogna: So, what’s the Skylar Grey story?

Skylar Grey: I’ve been writing and singing my whole life. I started performing professionally when I was six. During my first piano recital, I even did an original song, so I’ve always been writing. So, when I moved out to Los Angeles and I began working with other songwriters, I learned so much because every songwriter is so different. Even if it’s not the most enjoyable experience, you can learn something from it. So, I feel like I’ve been in so many situations now, with art and music that I’ve really defined a sound for myself and that’s what I’m working on now. I’m just working on putting out my own album and I’m so proud of it because it really sounds exactly like who I am which as a young artist is a really hard thing to accomplish. As a young artist, it’s hard sometimes to know exactly what you want to do. But once you experience the world and are exposed to other songwriters, it makes it easier to find your place, and I feel like I’ve really found my place.

MR: What do you think about the changes in the industry like the success reality television shows, etc.?

SG: Well, with the constant changes in technology and TV programming, you always have to find new ways to get seen. There are no rules in this business. So, if it takes going onto a reality show to do that, I say go for it. But I firmly believe that the reason you will be able to succeed is because you develop a solid fan base. If that means you have to play a lot of live gigs and make independent albums, do that. Just keep making music and building a fan base.

MR: Any other advice for newer artists?

SG: Well, David Foster put out a list of 10 things that he advises new artists and songwriters to do, and I would say watch and study that. (laughs) It’s great advice.