Julia Davo on Being Weird, Going Viral, Owning the Spotlight, and Her Upcoming Single "Muse"

With a theatrical demeanor, shapeshifting versatility, and an unapologetic edge, Julia Davo is a genre defying musician who aims to comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable. New York born and raised, Julia Davo began busking on the streets of Brooklyn; her quirky singing style and theatrical songs brought her cross-country to Los Angeles, where she currently resides.

Photo credit: Julia Davo

Her newest single “Media” went viral on Tik Tok, with fans around the world resonating with the idea of being a “freak”, “geek”, and “girl on the stair.” With a new single called “Muse” and an EP to follow on the way, Julia Davo and her modern dramatic flair make her unforgettable in the age of ephemera. Check out our interview below!

You describe your music as theatrical and genre-defying, which I think is totally accurate! What drew you toward that dramatic style of performance?

I was always kind of a theater kid, so that helps for sure. I like over the top, I like the theatrics, I do. I like to tell a story, make a statement. Not even just through lyrics, but through tempo, volume, movement, fashion.

I agree with Shakespeare about the world being a stage.

Your single “Media” blew up on TikTok. What was it like watching people around the world connect with it?

It was extremely special. My song Media means a lot to me, I wrote it about.. Well the media, and how unnatural modern day technology has felt to me. Constantly comparing myself to others, being chronically online, finding romance with the click of a button. It is all new, strange, scary. Having so many people relate to feeling like a “freak” a “geek”. Well that was one of the most incredible things that has happened to me. My only goal is to make others feel seen.

There are, of course, a ton of indie artists hoping they too go viral! Any advice?
Be yourself. But actually be yourself. I know it’s hard especially nowadays to compare yourself to other artists to question “is this cool? Am I too weird? Will they understand?” I struggle with this to this day. But I notice the more authentic I am to my soul and artistry, the more I discover people who are moved by what I’m doing.

You started out busking in Brooklyn. What did those early street performances teach you about connecting with an audience?

Busking taught me the beauty of imperfection. A theater kid at heart, I know the feeling of a full production, a head mic, a spotlight, a costume, maybe even a wig. Busking taught me how to perform without the bells and whistles. To perform in the midst of chaos. And sometimes those performances are the most raw, and impactful.

How has your time on American Idol shaped your career path and your perspective as an artist today?

The show was an incredible experience that taught me a lot. I auditioned for American Idol the first week I moved to Los Angeles. Getting to be on the set/ and experience filming for the show, it was an experience I wouldn’t trade for the world.

You’ve said you want to “comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable.” How does that come through on and off the stage?

Well, I guess with that vision in mind, fear isn’t in the equation. I’m not afraid to be weird, disturbing, if I have to. Truth is, in making art I just want to get a message across, sometimes the message isn’t rainbows and butterflies, and my songs won’t always make people happy.

What’s one theatrical influence—whether a musician, actor, or film—that has shaped your approach to storytelling in music?

Freddie Mercury.

Likewise, one piece of media that you think everyone should consume? (ie a specific movie, song, play, book, etc)

That song “Tiptoe through the Tulips” by Tiny Tim. He was great.

Moving from New York to Los Angeles must have been a big shift. I’m an East Coast girl, and I know living in CA was a huge shake-up for me! How has each city influenced your sound and your artistic identity?
It is different for sure. When I began my music journey in NYC, I was drawn to the grunge, the punk, the “rock scene”. It was the classic vibe, carrying my guitar amp on the F train, grabbing a slice of pizza before mic check. My roots were in rock and roll and my friends were a part of the music.

Moving to LA was scary. I didn’t have many friends here, my family is far away. I spent many nights alone and confused. I had to really figure out- why am I here? I honed in on my sound. The rock elements have stayed, but I have found even more ways to express myself, I have added different elements as I discovered who I really am.

What’s next for you?

Lots of more music, and an EP coming soon. I’m going to be playing my songs here in LA.

Looking ahead, what’s your dream collaboration, on stage or off?

Kate Bush.

Follow Julia Davo below and keep an eye out for her September 19th release “Muse.” Check out a preview below!

@juliadavo
Thank you #singersongwriter #hemlockesprings #marina #newsong #queen
? Muse by Julia Davo – Julia Davo

““Muse” questions the bounds of love and the extremities it can push one to. “I’m designed to make your dreams come true” was my theatrical declaration to my lover, I will inspire you. But the song raises the question- does inspiring my lover come at the cost of being inspired. The song is an irreverent take on giving up the purest parts of yourself to those who are undeserving, the wolves. The grandiose arrangement highlights the feeling of romance with a slight eerie undertone which nods to Davos dissatisfaction in giving herself away.” -Julia Davo

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