• 10 Mar, 2025

ERICA: Carving a Distinct Path in Music with Passion and Purpose

ERICA: Carving a Distinct Path in Music with Passion and Purpose

From the age of five, ERICA was immersed in the world of classical music, mastering the violin with dreams of performing in an orchestra. But as she stepped into adulthood, the rigid nature of classical compositions no longer satisfied her creative hunger.

Unbeknownst to many, her passion for composing had been growing since she was 13, experimenting with digital audio workstations in secret. It wasn’t until the encouragement of fellow artist and photographer Lindsay Tatman that ERICA finally took the leap into the music industry —where she now thrives as an R&B/pop artist with a deeply personal and evolving sound.

 

A Sound that Defies Genre

ERICA’s music doesn’t fit neatly into a box—it’s a fusion of R&B, soul, jazz, and, in the near future, hyperpop. “I love jazz, and I knew it was going to make a comeback,” she says, citing artists like RAYE and Laufey as confirmation of her vision. Her first project focuses on the emotional healing process after surviving abusive relationships, but she’s already looking ahead to a new chapter—one that celebrates self-discovery, solitude, and joy. In the interim, she’s planning an upbeat, electronic-infused project that will push her creative boundaries even further. “It’s a challenge I’m excited to take on, both in production and composition,” she shares.

 

Crafting Music with Authenticity and Wit

ERICA’s songwriting process is rooted in storytelling—sometimes her own, sometimes inspired by the experiences of friends. She thrives on transforming real-life moments into compelling music, often adding layers of sarcasm and humor, even when tackling heavy subjects. Her upcoming EP, dropping in May 2025, will feature a particularly poignant track written about a friend’s heartbreak, proving her ability to channel emotions beyond her own into her art. With a meticulous approach to production, she starts with a beat, builds her lyrics, and then refines the instrumental to match the mood—ensuring that every element serves the story.

 

The Visual Artist’s Edge

Beyond music, ERICA’s background in photography gives her a unique perspective on visual storytelling. She believes that album artwork and music videos are just as important as the music itself. “Whether we like it or not, we’re visual creatures,” she explains. “A strong image can make someone press play before they even read the song title.” With platforms like TikTok reshaping the industry, she embraces the growing demand for striking visuals, understanding that in today’s digital age, music and imagery are inseparable.

 

Collaboration & Growth

ERICA’s debut release was a collaboration with Lindsay Tatman, a process she describes as effortless and joyous—just two artists vibing on a porch with a couple of beers. She’s also worked with artists like J-Dizz, Suave, and Chantel Janay, all of whom she has future projects planned with. Looking ahead, her dream collaborations include RAYE, Laufey, and Tori Kelly—artists she admires for their vocal prowess, unique songwriting, and fearless authenticity.

With her sound evolving, her production skills sharpening, and her confidence as a performer growing, ERICA is stepping into her artistry with purpose. Her next project will be a deep dive into the concept of solitude and self-love, a testament to how far she’s come—not just as an artist, but as a person.

"Figure out what you want and never stop chasing after it," she advises fellow creatives. "Even when you feel crazy and alone, you're not. Someone, somewhere, is rooting for you."

Valerie W.

Valerie is the writer of Wavy Music Magazine, a premier destination for music industry professionals. Through her interviews, reviews, and expert insights, she keeps readers up-to-date on the latest trends and developments in the world of music.