Interview: ROSETTA

For listeners who might be new to your music — who is Rosetta? How would you describe your sound and your vibe as an artist?
‍I’d say my whole vibe as an artist is super girly, pink, sparkly, and bubbly, which you can probably tell the second you click on my Instagram. My music totally sits in that same world. Lately I’ve been so inspired by early 2010s pop! It’s fun, dramatic, full of energy, and it just gives good vibes. I love creating the kind of music I was obsessed with when I was younger.

You’re only 22 but already building a serious following. When did you first realise music was something you wanted to pursue?
‍I released my very first song when I was about 14. It’s called Bubblegum, and I still have the little DIY music video up on YouTube. I’d figured out how to put things on Spotify by myself and thought it was the coolest thing ever. I’ve actually been posting original songs and covers since I was around 13, which is so funny to look back on now, but it really shows how passionate I’ve been about this dream from such a young age.

Who were some of your music idols growing up and have they had much influence in your music now?
‍Growing up, I was obsessed with High School Musical and Hannah Montana. High School Musical is actually what sparked me wanting to write songs. I wrote my first song in primary school because of it. When I got older, I became completely obsessed with Ariana Grande. I used to sit in my room for hours trying to learn her runs. That definitely shaped the way I sing and my love for pop music in general.

You have a new single out, Miss Passion. What can you tell us about this? What was some of the inspiration or emotions you drew from?
‍Miss Passion is super 2010s-pop inspired. I wanted it to be this fun, girly, summery, feel-good track. It’s all about owning your femininity, going out, having fun, being a little bit flirty, and not apologising for being little Miss Passion herself!

What makes Miss Passion different from what you’ve done before?
‍Miss Passion might actually be my favourite song I’ve released so far. I just love how fun and upbeat it is. There’s also a lot more vocal production than in my previous songs! So many layers, harmonies, and runs, which I’m absolutely obsessed with. It was honestly so much fun to record.

You often share stories of self-discovery, life, and love. Is it ever scary being that open with your audience?
‍My music is a mix of real experiences, real emotions, and also stories I’ve made up. I love imagining different situations and stepping into someone else’s shoes to write from that perspective. Writing about things I haven’t personally experienced is really fun because it lets me be creative. But I also love writing about my own emotions. It’s super therapeutic, even though sharing those lyrics with the world can definitely feel a little scary sometimes.

How have you found the music-making process so far? Are there parts you enjoy more than others?
‍I’ve been writing music for such a long time. When I first started, it was just me and my acoustic guitar. Then I tried doing my own production to level up my songs, which wasn’t my favourite because I’m not great at instruments, but I didn’t have another option at the time. These days I usually work with a producer, and it’s honestly amazing. I love bringing an idea from my imagination and watching someone with the technical skills turn it into a real song.

Heading into the new year, what is on your wish list of things to do or achieve?
‍I would love to do a New Zealand tour! I think it would be so fun to finally meet the people who comment on my posts in real life. I absolutely love playing live shows, so I want to do as many as possible this year.

Is there anything else you can share with us?
‍There are so many exciting things coming next year that I cannot wait to share, so definitely stick around, because things are about to get fabulous!

What burger do you think Miss Passion would be if it were on the BF menu and why?
‍I think she’d be the limited edition Dirty Little Secret burger because she’s fun, fresh, and just a little bit cheeky.

What would your ideal BF burger contain?
‍Definitely a smashed beef patty with cheddar cheese, tomato sauce, caramelised onion, iceberg lettuce, and maybe some bacon if we’re feeling extra. And always extra pickles! Also, fun fact that people always find really weird, I always take the top bun off my burgers. The burger-to-bun ratio is just so much better.

Sound Check, Vibe Check

1. What is your go-to song to jam out to in the car? Lately it’s been Buttons by the Pussycat Dolls! An absolute classic.

2. Who is your favourite artist at the moment? Sabrina Carpenter, 100%. I’m obsessed with the Short n’ Sweet era,  it’s so fun, so girly, and every single song is a banger.

3. One thing you can’t perform without? Heels that are way too high and will definitely make me almost wipe out at least once! But honestly, it’s part of the show at this point!

4. One artist or band you would love to collab with? Kind of random, but a Rosetta x Nicki Minaj collab would be beyond iconic.

5. Go-to BurgerFuel order? You can’t go wrong with a classic American Muscle single! I love kūmara fries, and I always finish it off with a Diet Coke.

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Fire or Backfire?

1. Pickles in burgers — FIREEE (extra pickles always)

2. Crocs — Backfire, I just can’t do it

3. Karaoke — Fire

4. BurgerFuel Aioli — FIREE

5. Acoustic performances — Fire

6. NZ Music Month — Super fire

7. Festivals — Fire, I cannot wait for festie season

8. Singing in the shower — Fire, the steam is amazing for your vocal cords

9. Pineapple on pizza — Backfire, it’s just wrong

10. Supermarket in bare feet — Backfire, I do not want to know what’s on that floor

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