By Shane Gallagher
CERANDA, Pop’s Newest Princess, Has Something to Say! “Do I Have Your Attention” is more than just an infectious dance track; it’s a declaration of unapologetic confidence. Inspired by the artist’s own experiences with social media and the way it often favors superficiality over substance, the song taps into feelings of being overlooked. “I remember feeling so frustrated that my half-naked picture was gaining more attention than my music,” CERANDA, who is opening for Katy Perry this Fall, recalls. “This song is about embracing who you are and knowing that you are ‘that’ girl—unapologetically confident and completely in control.”
We love that you’re bringing anthems back to the dance floor!
I grew up on Britney, Lady Gaga, Kesha and Rihanna and they were all about high energy party sounds that made me feel alive. I love a big overproduced sound. My goal with my music is to make people dance, have fun, escape reality, find confidence, get revenge on an ex, and let go.
“Do I Have Your Attention” reflects on your experiences with social media.
I get frustrated when I post an Instagram story in a bikini and receive a ton of views but then post a story about my music, and get considerably less. Recently, I decided to get c-nty and post bikini pictures with a link titled “OnlyFans”—except the link actually led to Spotify to stream my debut single.
So, when you’re asking for attention, it’s really for your music that you want people to notice?
Definitely music first but come on, who doesn’t love attention?
Tell us about how you found your way in the music industry.
CERANDA: I grew up playing music with my dad. I went to college and studied classical voice, piano, and music business, and worked for Live Nation. After college, I worked for Youtube Music as a data analyst and started writing songs on the side. I found the more my love grew for making pop music, the less I cared about working in the industry. I am still involved in the music industry but in a very different way now.
Who are your inspirations?
Hannah Montana! She wasn’t just a pop star; she was a normal kid who played music with her dad, just like me. Also, she was from a small town in the middle of nowhere, Texas, and I could relate. Her show opened my eyes to what I imagined life could be like.
Were you always confident and completely in control?
(Laughing) Hell no! I faked it ‘til I made it. The reality is, the world does everything it can to strip us of our confidence. My songs are a reminder to myself and to everyone else of who we are and what we’re capable of. And honestly, the more you listen to the songs, the more you get it.
How does your next single, “Superpowers” continue the theme of empowerment?
“Superpowers” is such a fun song. It’s meant to be a breakup cure. Breakups are tough, no doubt about it, but something incredible happens when you finally get over it. It’s like a new light starts shining from within—a real glow-up. It’s a powerful feeling. I knew I had to write a song that captured that vibe and helps listeners fast-forward to the good part a little quicker.
Are you cool with your LGBTQ fans adopting the tracks as their own?
The gay community owns pop music. They truly do know best. If the music is not cool with them, it’s not cool with me! I have been so blessed by the support of my gay fans. They have pushed my music and gotten my songs played in clubs all across the country and even overseas. I’m incredibly grateful.
Pride is power. What are you most proud of at the moment?
I am most proud of the fact that I am able to live my dream and that I have fans who love and appreciate the art I make. That’s all I could ask for.
Follow on Instagram @ ceranda_xo