Itef is a name synonymous with storytelling through music. Since he began his musical journey at the age of 15, Itef has been captivating listeners with his deeply personal and evolving sound. Now, at 31, with three albums under his belt and a fourth on the way, he continues to push the boundaries of his artistry. WAVY Magazine had the pleasure of sitting down with Itef to delve into his inspirations, creative process, and the stories behind his music.
A Journey of Evolution
Itef’s musical style is ever-changing, a deliberate choice that keeps his work fresh and innovative. "I don't feel like I have a specific music style because with each album I release, I keep changing, evolving, and reinventing my music style, image, and aesthetic," he explains. This willingness to explore different genres allows Itef to express a wide range of emotions and themes, primarily revolving around love, heartbreak, and personal experiences. His dramatic flair is evident in every track, making each album a unique narrative journey.
Inspirations and Influences
Among the many artists who inspire him, Taylor Swift stands out as a significant influence. "I've been listening to her music since I was about 14 years old. I can say she taught me how to write songs," Itef shares. Swift's storytelling prowess and ability to weave intricate narratives through her lyrics have profoundly shaped Itef’s approach to songwriting. This influence is palpable in his music, where each song feels like a story meticulously crafted to resonate with listeners.
The Art of Songwriting
Itef’s songwriting process is as diverse as his music. Inspiration strikes him at the most unexpected moments, whether he's with family, out with friends, or traveling. His two favorite places to write are on airplanes and at his grandmother's house in Italy. "The last time I went there, I wrote 50 songs in one day just looking at the sunset, all about family history," he recalls. For Itef, songwriting is not just about creating music; it’s about immortalizing moments and emotions, making them a permanent part of his life’s story.
Visual Artistry and Collaborations
Visual elements play a crucial role in Itef's music. Collaborating closely with his friend and photographer Daniel Valdes, Itef ensures that his album covers and music videos reflect the essence of his songs. "The artwork is very important to me. I want them to look like the music you're hearing," he notes. His collaborative spirit extends beyond visuals to his music as well. Working with talented songwriters like Aaron Dinars and Beto Bennett has helped elevate his songwriting, particularly on his upcoming album, Character Assassination.
Conclusion
Itef's dedication to his craft and his ability to constantly evolve as an artist make him a compelling figure in the music industry. His journey is marked by a deep love for storytelling and a relentless pursuit of artistic growth. As he prepares to release his fourth album, Character Assassination, fans can look forward to more of his heartfelt and dramatic tales set to music. For Itef, the future is an open canvas, and with each new project, he continues to paint a vivid picture of his musical and personal journey.
