Los Angeles’s Newest Pop Star Izza Talks Her Latest Single, Artistry, Being True To Yourself, And More

In the age of social media, people crave authenticity and relatability among emerging talent more than ever. Utilizing popular apps such as TikTok, Izza is making waves, creating trends, and spreading positivity with her hit singles “Nintendo Bitch” and “Love Bracelets” – all while proving that being yourself will get you exactly where you need to be. By coupling high-energy beats with uplifting, powerful messages, Izza prides herself on curating music that can be used as medicine for those who need it most. With empowering lyrics that encourage self-love, normalize vulnerability, and motivate listeners to follow their dreams, Izza is undoubtedly one to watch (and listen to). On October 26th, 2022, Izza will release her newest single, “Pop Star.”

Read her full, exclusive interview with Contrast below.

Contrast: Congratulations on your latest single, ‘Pop Star.’ What is the meaning behind the song?
Izza: Thank you so much! When I released my debut EP “I Say This With Love” in July, I had a moment of reflection where I realized that I was finally making my dreams of  becoming a pop star a reality. The EP was a milestone in my career and inspired me to look at the artists that I grew up loving because they were the ones who motivated me to pursue music. I wrote “POPSTAR” because I wanted to pay homage to my favorite pop singers while I am establishing myself as one.

Contrast: What would you tell someone who wants to be a pop star? What’s the first step?

Izza: My advice to anyone who wants to be in music, regardless if they want to be a pop star or not, is to be yourself and make the music that you want to make. I love making music because I make the music I want to make. When you try to think about what other people want to hear or start creating art that isn’t authentic to you, I think that’s where you can get lost. Staying true to myself has made music so rewarding and fun.

Contrast: Can you tell us a bit about your background? How did you get your start into the industry?

Izza: From a young age, I was always surrounded by music. My parents loved listening to music and would take me to concerts all around LA. I grew up as a dancer and eventually started playing instruments like piano and guitar. It wasn’t until I joined a rock band in my elementary school where I learned about songwriting which inspired me to write my own music. This eventually led me to graduate from USC’s Thornton School of Music with a degree in Music Industry. I learned so much about the industry during my time in college and it allowed me to hoan my songwriting and production skills as I developed my sound and image as an artist.

Contrast: Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Izza: I want to be releasing albums and touring the world! Performing is one of my favorite parts about being an artist, so I can’t wait to be able to design my own show. One of my dreams is to headline Coachella.

Contrast: Describe your favorite and least favorite part about being an artist.
Izza: My favorite part is definitely writing and performing my music. Music is what feeds my soul and everytime I’m able to create or perform my own original art, I am extremely fulfilled inside. Sometimes, getting people to believe in your vision and artistry is a challenge when you are establishing yourself as an artist. However, I think by staying true to myself and my art, I have been able to overcome feelings of doubt because I have a greater purpose of inspiring others to be themselves through my songs.

Contrast: Where can fans listen to your music?
Izza: My music is available on all streaming platforms! Tiktok is where I’m always sharing unreleased music, so make sure to follow me @izzaroze! I also have a bunch of music videos on my Youtube channel that you can watch.

Contrast: What is your fashion style and has it evolved since beginning your career?
Izza: Fashion is very important to me because it’s another avenue for my self-expression. My music inspires my fashion and vice versa. I used to wear all black because I was making dark electro-hip-hop music, however, now that I am making more pop music, I wear a lot more color. I still have always worn shiny and sparkly pieces because I love making a statement and I don’t think that will ever change.

Contrast: What’s next for you and do you have any upcoming performances?
Izza: I’m releasing a Christmas song called “Naughty or Nice” very soon! I’ve never released a holiday song, so I’m excited to be exploring a different genre while still staying true to my sound.