Dublin-based Bulgarian singer Iva Ray has released her new single, Common. We asked her the BIG questions . . .
It follows her recent song Trouble and is released in time for Valentine's and speaking about the new track, she says, "You know, we all had this relationship where we believed the person is everything but in the end we realize it is all just in our imagination and we finally see clearly.
"I didn't write this song for a specific person, or for love. I wrote it following this feeling."
Tell us three things about yourself?
I began singing at six because I was obsessed with My Heart Will Go On by Celine Dion from Titanic.
I have tried many things during my life to find my passion: Latino American dancing, theatre acting, modelling, swimming, tennis, yoga, life coaching and many other hobbies. I always found that my passion for singing remained the strongest of them all.
The first song I ever wrote in English was streamed on BBC UK which was the moment I realized people actually enjoyed my music and I have a talent for song writing.
How would you describe your music?
I would say it’s soulful and unconventional. I do not stay confined to one style of music. Same with the music I listen to. I love music in general not for the trend but for the feeling of it, the genre to me doesn’t matter. I like experimenting and experiencing different parts of myself within my art. That’s why I decided to name my first album, which is out this year, Chameleon. As one day I may go for a more ballad-sounding song, another for very fiery vibes, it all depends on what I want to project with the song.
Who are your musical inspirations?
I have many musical inspirations some of my top inspirations as an artist in no specific order would be - Christina Aguilera, Mariah Carey, The Weeknd, Rihanna, Lana Del Ray, Ne-Yo, Miguel
What was the first gig you ever went to and the first record you ever bought/downloaded?
I believe the first gigs and concerts I went to were ones I was also part of as I started performing at a very young age.
In terms of other hearing other people’s music live, my first gig was probably of one of my favourite Bulgarian hip-hop groups and my first concert was Metallica.
The first record I owned and loved was The Eminem Show.
What’s your favourite song right now?
Anitta - Boys Don’t Cry.
Favourite lyric of all time?
I don’t think I really have one, but my favourite quote of all time is. "How beautiful life could be if we feel the pain that we cause".
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Elvis Presley - Can’t Help Falling in Love.
Where can people find your music/more information?
My music is available on all streaming platforms but if people want more information they can follow me Instagram at: iva.ray.
