Now based in New York City, Wagner released her debut full length album Shoes Droppin’ (Wicked Cool Records) Oct. 2020 and she just recently released a new upbeat reggae-like single “I Just Can’t Today” with more light hearted B-side “The Unknown.”
About the songs, Wagner said: “Just Can't Today' came about when I was having one of those I Can't Get It Right days. I allowed myself some grace. Sometimes you need a moment to take a deep breath, lose yourself in a mindless Netflix comedy, and regroup. That's what this song is about. Giving yourself the courtesy to start again. “The Unknown” is a song about realizing how fleeting time can be. You think you always have enough of it, and then one day, the thing you wanted most is out of reach. For me, this was the choice of career over family. “The Unknown” is about missing out on knowing what the joy of having a child in your life is like." Stream both songs here.
While preparing for her upcoming September-October UK tour with The Three Degrees, Wagner discusses her origins, new music, acting role pursuits and more in this interview with OOTB.
Watch the video for “I Just Can’t Today”
How would you say your new tunes compare to previous songs on Shoes Droppin’? Are the new songs just as personal?
I would definitely say that they are just as personal. I usually write when I'm deep in to my emotions. It helps me process them. But as always, I try to include some songs that are playful, if not hopeful.
You seem to not limit yourself to any one particular music genre. How do you decide on the music to go with your songwriting?
I've always listened to and enjoyed so many different styles of music, and my sound is a reflection of that. It really comes down to how I was hearing the song in my head. That dictates the direction the song takes. I don't really have a process other than that. My producers help soften the edges, but the song itself decides the genre.
When did you realize music is who you are what you want to do? And what or who was it?
It was in college when I fully understood how much music was a part of me and how it would possibly shape my future. You discover who you are in those years. I ended up performing in a pageant and winning. It was equal parts terrifying and exhilarating; and it was the first time I thought maybe this singing thing might be the way to go.
With all your touring experience and working with so many prolific artists, is their any one artist you would still like to tour with or collaborate with? And why them?
Lenny Kravitz was the artist I wanted to tour with because I fancied myself a bit like him—especially when I was rocking out a little harder. So it was a dream come true touring with him. I would still like to collaborate with him someday. It would be like coming full circle. But kind of on the other end of the spectrum, I would love to work with John Mayer. I think my older self identifies with his style of music and writing more. I think we could write something devastatingly heartbreaking and moving.
As far as acting goes, are there any upcoming pursuits you’re looking into?
I'm happy to say I got a line in an indie film that came out last year called Three Birthdays. And I was also the spokeswoman and main actress in Little Steven's Underground Apothecary commercial. That was really fun. I'm currently shopping around a pilot I wrote and shot with friends for a series that's similar to my own personal experiences. Hopefully, I'll be able to find a home for it.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Last time I released an album, covid got in my way. Nothing is stopping me now! God willing, I'll be able to get out on the road and share my music with the world.
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