Sophia Messa talks about her empowering new single & filming during quarantine

Sophia Messa, an up-and-coming Brazilian-American pop vocalist, has recently released her brand new single “Ice Cream & Cigarettes” which has caught the attention of music fans around the world. This track marks the first single and title track of her debut EP which fans can expect to be released later this year. At a young age, Messa has already developed a strong fanbase of international supporters and exudes an impressive amount of confidence. These remarkable traits only support the fact that she’s a force to be reckoned with in a competitive industry. In an exclusive interview with United By Pop, Sophia Messa opens up about her music, supporters and more.

What inspired you to create your new single “Ice Cream & Cigarettes” and then release it at this time?

I wrote “Ice Cream & Cigarettes” at a point in my life when I was trying to distance myself from someone I was on and off hooking up with. It was hard for me to stop seeing this person because of the temporary feeling of satisfaction I felt with them. I knew this feeling wasn’t going to last, and that I was only gonna get hurt in the long run, but it was hard to let go of something that felt so good at the moment.

What would you consider the theme or overall message of that track that you want listeners to take away?

I want people to interpret the song whichever way they want. Hopefully, the message can be empowering & a reminder for anyone going through a similar situation. Letting go of someone that has been a temporary fix of happiness is hard, and nobody wants to feel the discomfort and loneliness that will initially be there. In the end and long run though, you are going to be grateful you let go because that’s the only way you’re going to grow.

How was it to make its music video during quarantine with strict restrictions?

Making a music video during quarantine was different than my past experiences. But honestly, it was a lot more freeing & enjoyable than having a bunch of people on set. The director and I had to stay 6ft apart so I wasn’t able to look at all the shots like I usually would be able to, but I really trusted the director and his vision and we just had fun with it.

If the pandemic was non-existent and you could have made the video in a different setting or way, what would have been your ideal vision?

That’s tough because I really like the way it turned out and think I’d still choose to shoot it the same way. I was able to be a lot more hands-on because it was only the director and I on set.

Does “Ice Cream & Cigarettes” give listeners a preview of what they can expect from your debut EP coming out later this year?

Yes. It was actually the first song written when I went to LA to start writing for the EP. As soon as it was finished I thought: ‘okay I want this sound to dictate the rest of the project.’

You have a massive following and your fans are incredibly dedicated. What do you love most about having that support system?

I definitely can’t pinpoint one thing, but I’m just so grateful to all of the people that reach out to me and support my music. Social media can be a scary thing, but I’m grateful for it because it lets me connect with people who bring a lot of positive energy into my life.

What advice would you give to individuals who look up to you and aspire to have a similar career in this industry?

You have to be really passionate and ready to work. Create your own luck!

What can fans look forward to in the near or even distant future?

My debut EP is coming out this fall…so more music is coming!

Follow Sophia Messa on Instagram and Spotify.

Listen to “Ice Cream & Cigarettes” here.