Bri Tolani Talks Syracuse, Mental Health, and Her New Single “Hazy” — 20 Watts Magazine | Premier Music Publication of SU

When did you first develop your love for music and who are some of your musical inspirations?

I have been in love with music for as long as I can remember. I was singing before I could speak. Starting in high school I started writing songs and covering songs on YouTube. Then I went to college and actually launched my singing career by collaborating with dozens of producers and Dj’s from around the world. My musical inspirations range every where from Halsey and Lauv to Linkin Park to John Mayer.

How have your experiences at Syracuse, especially in the Bandier program, influenced your career? Could you give specific examples?

The Bandier program is amazing because it’s so well connected. They know so many people in the industry and it’s nice to have that resource. Also, everyone in the program always has your back. It’s like one big family. The Bandier program as specifically impacted my career because of the advice I have been given from huge names in the industry – people that I would have no connection to if I wasn’t in the program. It’s also been amazing to collaborate with other students in the program, as there are many other artists like me.

What has the experience as a musician been like so far, after gaining popularity on Spotify and YouTube?

It has been quite a ride. One of my songs called “Why Do I?” became really successful and ever since then I have talked to hundreds of fans from around the world. It’s been such an eye openingexperience. It’s also amazing being able to do what I love and create art for a living. I am so grateful to have the career I do.

How is your new single ‘Hazy’ different from the past music you have produced?

Actually, “Hazy” is the first song I’ve ever produced. All of the other songs I have released I only wrote and sung them. But producing “Hazy” was really fun and taught me that I actually can produce music, which I encourage female artists to explore. “Hazy” is different from my other songs because it’s much more pop-leaning. My past songs have been very EDM influenced and “Hazy” is the transition for me from an EDM top liner to a pop singer. The song is also very emotional and vulnerable, since it’s about my experience struggling with anxiety and dissociation.

Why do you think it is important to incorporate mental health struggles into your music?

I think mental health deserves much more attention. ESPECIALLY in the music industry. So many people struggle in the dark and don’t know how to open up about their feelings, and I think keeping the conversation going is more important than anything. I want to let people know they are not alone and that struggling with your mental health is much more common than people think. Especially being an artist, it’s so important to stay in touch with yourself and make sure you’re putting yourself and your well being before your career.