Stepping into a bold new chapter, New York-based pop artist Theresa enters her “Rearview” era with a renewed sense of clarity, confidence, and forward motion. In this interview, she opens up about the mindset behind her latest single Rearview — a track that captures the turning point between reflection and release, where growth means finally letting go. Balancing life inside the music industry with her own larger-than-life artistic vision, Theresa has built steady momentum through resilience, instinct, and an unshakable belief in her path. As she continues to evolve, Rearview marks not just a new release, but a defining shift — one that sets the tone for everything that comes next.
● Your career has been described as a story of reinvention. What sparked the moment five years ago when you decided to fully return to music?
In complete honesty, I think the universe gave me a gentle nudge by reminding me of the gifts that I had inside me that went dormant for years. I was cleaning some old files and literally a napkin of original lyrics fell onto the floor. Which led me to look for old songbooks and demos I had recorded in my mid-20’s. Tears instantly started streaming down my face – there was this crazy feeling of certainty that songwriting and performing were destined to be a part of my life.
From there, I set myself out on a journey of artistic exploration – writing brand new songs, befriending new creative collaborators and really finding my voice as I approached 40 years old.
● You work inside the music industry by day and live your artist life by night. How does that dual perspective influence the way you approach your own music?
I am not going to lie, it’s tough! My role in music within the advertising industry is super fast paced and demanding. I absolutely LOVE IT. One of my favorite parts of the job is that I get to work with SUCH INSANELY creative people day in and day out – who inspire me. I also get to collaborate with musicians, producers and writers that I am a fan of, creating music for branded content. It makes me so happy to give opportunities to other artists, especially those who are trying to find their own way within “the business”.
But I work hard and my days are long – which sometimes clouds any time I have for my own creativity. I’ve learned how to create balance – the best I can…and also to not be so hard on myself if I am not cranking out a song every week. As an artist I must allow the ideas to naturally come to me and flow.
● Your new single Rearview is about leaving the past behind. Was there a specific moment or experience that triggered the idea for the song?
I was having drinks with some old friends one night – and someone brought something up that I said like 15 years ago that made me cringe which I completely forgot about. But once they said it, even though it happened SO LONG AGO, it kept me up at night and was on the top of my mind for weeks. So I started to write about trying to leave the past behind in the rearview. That our past does not define who we are today or the person we will be tomorrow.
● The concept of the “Rearview era” is powerful. What does this new chapter represent for you personally and artistically?
I feel like I’ve turned a corner in my songwriting. I always “thought” I was writing from my heart, but I really feel like the music I have in production as well as the new material I am currently concepting comes from such a raw and vulnerable place…comforting emotions, feelings and experiences that are actually helping me grow. I am a person who is constantly learning and trying to move through life with grace, strength and confidence. My songwriting has become therapy for me and has seriously allowed me to grow in ways I never knew were possible.
● Your inspirations range from Madonna to Mariah Carey and Lady Gaga. What elements from those artists resonate most with you?
Madonna, Mariah and Gaga are ALL POWERHOUSES. Amazing performers and songwriters. Each of them have reinvented themselves, unapologetically, again and again. They all built their careers from the ground up and their willingness to leave their comfort zones behind to follow their dreams has inspired me to do the same. They are constantly creating and pushing their own boundaries despite their age or their place on the charts. That’s true artistry.
● Your music often talks about growth, resilience and self-belief. Do you see your songs as a form of self-reflection or as messages meant for others going through similar experiences?
Every song I write comes from my heart. I have to feel what I am writing and a lot of the time it’s to help me work through some sort of inner turmoil or to celebrate a win or to get over something or someone in my life. It took me a long time to realize this (and to be honest, that happened very recently) but I am in the same boat as a lot of people, especially those in their 30’s, 40’s, 50’s+, that are just trying to survive and be the best they can be while living a magical life.
● The message behind “Rearview” is about moving forward. Looking ahead, what does the next chapter of your journey look like?
Timely question while we enter a new season and astrological year! I’ve started to map out my intentions and goals for the next few months and I am actually taking some pressure off myself. I am always in motion. Always creating, always planning, always dreaming. I have new music I want to release, shows I want to perform, people I want to inspire. I want to continue growing my audience while staying true to myself. I was born to write songs and bring out the best in other people. I am proud of who I am and so grateful for this life that I’ve created – and I know if I keep following my heart and keep doing the things that bring me joy, the next chapter will write itself. 💜
