Four Time Grammy Nominee, Autumn Rowe
Introduce yourself. How did you get started?
Hiii, My name is Autumn Rowe and I’m originally from the South Bronx. I got started in music around 16 years old when I began interning for Island Records. While interning I was in 4 choirs at once. I learned to write letters to different record companies in the building asking artists to perform at my school and it worked! Any chance I had to be around a mentor or learn I grabbed the opportunity. My first paid recording session ever was from my high school music teacher Mr. Tomasitis for $100 to sing a demo. I was also in the NYCHA choir, and we had the opportunity to perform at iconic places like Radio City Music Hall and The Beacon Theater.
How do you overcome obstacles?
I try to overcome obstacles by not giving up. Some of the challenges in the music industry can be overwhelming but I try to remember why I do this in the first place and my source of joy and purpose. Music has gotten me through the darkest times and continues to inspire me. Obstacles can turn into lessons and with enough lessons, we then become the teacher.
Tell us about your songwriting process. What does it look like to you?
My songwriting process varies but it all comes from a place of truth. Sometimes I write songs acapella, I often love writing with artists and helping to tell their special story and sometimes I produce a track and write to that. I mostly work with my production partner Kizzo. We have made so much music together and are always open to trying any idea.
What albums are you playing on repeat right now?
I love taking walks to Drake Certified Lover Boy and Anything from Yebba.
What is the biggest piece of advice you would give to women who are interested in pursuing a career like yours?
My biggest advice is to be relentless. Do not give up if this is what you really want but with that said if you aren’t incredibly passionate about music in the way of it’s what you eat, sleep, and breathe then it’s not work it as many sacrifices must be made. I recommend developing as a writer, learning basic skills on recording software and being as self-sufficient as possible. Whatever you want to do, it’s all possible. I also recommend going after what you want.
Many of my best collaborations have happened organically from me sending a DM or just approaching an artist or producer. It can be a bit cringe, but you might never get the opportunity again to see this person and it only takes 1 song to change your life...so just go for it. My last piece of advice is no one will or should ever care about your career more than you, so be your best advocate. You only have yourself, but manager and tables have tons of other people on their roster.. so, make your moves count.
What characteristics do you look for in friends?
I LOVEEEEE my friends. My close friends tend to be strong women, massive go getters. I’m constantly inspired by these women. They are driven, wise, generous, beautiful inside and out, smart, confident and have a great sense of humor. I love friends who I can share ideas with and build with. We all support each other…sometimes that sisterhood is all we have and that’s more than enough. □
Article Credits
Autumn’s Instagram: @autumnrowe
Autumn’s Twitter: @AutumnRoweMusic
Autumn’s Website: AutumnRowe.com
Autumn’s Spotify: Autumn Rowe
Autumn’s Music Credits: Autumn Rowe is a songwriter
ALL PHOTO’S ARE BY: DAE HOWERTON PHOTOGRAPHY
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