“My biggest belief is that all you need is one, your person. Someone that when all else fails, you can put on your running shoes and run to them, away from everything else.” From the heartfelt melody of her new release, “Running Shoes,” AVIV embeds this sentiment into a gentle, warm embrace of a song that becomes a much-needed retreat in turbulent times. In days like these, where calmness can be elusive, her sweet voice and the easy-going tune become a serene harbor that gently steers thoughts into a peaceful sway. This light-footed track is not merely a song but a comforting whisper, assuring listeners of a safe space amid the chaos.
Growing up in Toronto, a city steeped in its vibrant music scene, AVIV has crafted her artistry from an environment resonating with diverse musical influences, weaving through her melodies an essence that is noticeably sincere and resonantly relatable. “I was trying a million and one things and none of them stuck,” she recalls of her exploration into the musical world, ultimately finding a refuge and expressive outlet in the art of songwriting.
In our interview, we dive into the emotional depth behind “Running Shoes,” explore her experiences working with producer Robbie Lackritz, and her personal connections with animals.
photography by Photo Finish Records
“Running Shoes” seems to depict a deeply personal journey towards solace. Can you share more about the emotional backdrop of this song?
My biggest belief is that all you need is one, your person. This song is about that individual for me. Someone that when all else fails, you can put on your running shoes and run to them, away from everything else.”
How was your experience working with the producer Robbie Lackritz on this single, and in what ways did he influence the final sound of the track?
Working with Robbie was a learning experience like no other. He pushed me to create in ways I had never thought of before. Robbie is a rare individual who values each step of the process, there are no shortcuts. He taught me the beauty of live instrumentation and to see perfection through imperfection. This made the music feel personal and genuine.
Can we expect a music video for “Running Shoes”?
Yes! It just came out a couple of days ago!
The music industry categorizes artists into genres, do you feel confined by this, or do you think it allows you to explore your sound more freely?
I love this question because I ask myself every day what a genre is. People, including myself, tend to put labels on things. Maybe because we feel comfort in order. There are no categories for self-interpretation, which is what art is. I like to think of each song an artist releases as a singular indication of their self in the moment, therefore it cannot be confined to a singular title as people change and grow.
“Apart from artistry, music offered an alternate perspective, like a friend I’ve never met. Just like the people around me helped define my whole, so did music.”
Growing up in a musical environment, how have your early experiences with music shaped your perspective as an artist?
Music always spoke to me. Apart from artistry, it offered an alternate perspective, like a friend I’ve never met. Just like the people around me helped define my whole, so did music. When I decided that I wanted to create myself, I had all of these artworks that influenced me so greatly. I wanted to amplify that within my writing and pursue what felt like the rawest version of myself accordingly.
How has your journey in the music scene been, especially as a teenage artist in Toronto? Have you faced any challenges due to your age?
I used to hate mentioning my age, I did not want it to play a factor in my art. I always worried that if my age was shared, people may feel a disconnect. I have too much to say and never wanted to be seen as a kid. I have learned that it is just an additional trait and does not matter. People share more similarities to the core than I had realized. Age is meaningless as we all experience parallel feelings. I have been lucky to be treated with respect and as an adult, which I appreciate. Toronto is a great hometown that has so much to offer, you would be shocked how much talent comes from the youth in this city.
“I value and stress self-honesty. Success to me is my positives and my negatives.”
You started as a multi-instrumentalist; do you incorporate this diverse musical knowledge in your songwriting process?
I like to change how I write constantly. I enjoy switching from the guitar to the piano when I write. Both come with different feelings and encourage different ideas of writing. Playing different instruments has allowed me to have the right base to encapture what I am thinking.
How do you navigate the challenges of the music industry, especially with the rapid changes in music consumption and distribution?
I navigate the challenges by continuing to enjoy music. Passion and drive is my goal, nothing else. I want to create to create, with no ulterior motive behind that. I accept what I am good at and what I am not, but I am constantly impressed with what others do. Despite all of these changes I try to continue to write how I feel is the purest I can and not be something I am not just because that is what works quicker.
“Pets are the most forgiving and purest creatures.”
I stumbled upon a lovely photo of you with goats on Instagram. Coming from a farming background, I deeply value connections with animals. Could you share more about your overall relationship with animals?
Absolutely! I have a dog, his name is Bernie and I love him so much. I don’t know what I’d do without him. Pets are the most forgiving and purest creatures. Sometimes I think he’s too good for me.
What values or beliefs are most important to you in your life and work?
I value and stress self-honesty. Success to me is my positives and my negatives. I understand that I am not the best, but I try to be honest and realistic with myself for growth. In my experience, that gets people very far and is the best “success” of all.
