Step into the world of VARITDA, the Thai lo-fi pop jazz sensation whose sultry voice is quickly becoming one of the most captivating sounds in the music scene! Recently crowned with the “Best Recording of the Year” at The Guitar Mag Awards 2024, she is on an incredible rise and her latest release, “twenty-first”, is proof of why. A tender ode to love that deepens over time, the track is an emotional journey that is sure to resonate with listeners.

We caught up with VARITDA to dive into her story, explore the inspiration behind her beautiful new single, and hear her thoughts on the music industry!

Q: Could you introduce yourself to our readers and share a little about your background?

A: Hi everyone, I’m VARITDA! I’m a pop jazz singer from Thailand, and you may have heard of me from my earlier work, the “Mood” Trilogy. This trilogy consists of three albums in which I reimagined classic jazz standards with fresh arrangements and new recordings. Now, I’m exploring a new direction, creating jazz-infused music with chill, lo-fi, and pop vibes.

Q: “twenty-first” is a beautiful, romantic and easy-to-listen-to song that reflects your personal love story. Do you have any advice for those looking to build and maintain a long-lasting and happy relationship?

A: I would say, talk to each other often. Sharing your thoughts, beliefs, and worries, along with all the small things that happen daily. The more you communicate, the better you understand each other. It’s fundamental and creates a good foundation that holds everything together over time.

Q: In the music video for “twenty-first“, the actors portray a couple living out their daily life together. What is your favorite activity to enjoy with your loved one?

A: I can’t really say what my favorite activity with my husband is because, honestly, we do everything together almost 100% of the time. He is an executive producer for my music too, and he is there for every step of the process: recording, editing, and mixing. He is involved in everything, and I love it. It’s like having someone who is always by your side, no matter what, and that is such a special feeling.

Q: Who are some of your musical inspirations, and what drew you to the Thai jazz scene in particular?

A: I grew up listening to artists like Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, and later on, Diana Krall, Norah Jones, and even Laufey at the moment. Each one of them has inspired me in some way. I have always wanted to share the music I grew up with and the music I love with more people, by simplifying it to make it easy to listen to. I think that is what really drew me into the jazz scene in the first place.

Q: Are there any local or international artists you admire or would love to collaborate with, and why?

A: There are so many artists I admire! But if I had the chance to collaborate with one of them, I would say Laufey! I really love her music and the way she blends jazz with a modern, intimate vibe. It’s so beautiful. I feel that we have something in common as I come from a classical music background, just like her, and I used to play the cello in an orchestra. I really relate to how she brings classical influences into her songwriting and sound. I just love her so much.

Q: How did it feel to win the “Best Recording of the Year” award at The Guitar Mag Awards 2024? Are there other awards you hope to achieve in your career?

A: It felt like a “we did it!” moment! Someone saw what we have been doing, and that means so much. We have put so much heart into this project, carefully crafting every detail, and we are truly honored that they recognize the value in our work. It was such a rewarding feeling. Maybe “Best International Song” or “Best Female Artist.” It’s a dream!

Q: What is the most surprising or unexpected reaction you’ve received from a fan regarding your music?

A: To be honest, I have always been someone with low confidence. At the beginning of the project, I wasn’t sure I could really do it. I don’t actually have a formal jazz background, so I didn’t see myself as a ‘real’ jazz singer, you know. But then I started hearing feedback from fans and people around me, saying they loved how I sang and interpreted the song. One comment from a friend who lives in the UK really hit me. I had been confiding in him about my worries, like how I’m not that good and there are so many jazz singers who sing better than me. He said, “But they can’t do what you did. No one can sing the way you sang“. That completely shifted my mindset. It reminded me that I have something unique to offer and gave me the courage to keep going.

Q: With the Thai entertainment industry gaining increasing global recognition, how does it feel to be part of this exciting movement, and where do you see the industry heading in the future?

A: Firstly, I am so proud to be part of it! Thai music is really starting to reach global audiences, especially with the rise of so many streaming platforms and international collaborations. I can see the industry continuing to grow with more cross-border partnerships and Thai artists appearing at international music festivals. There is so much diversity now. I think that different genres blending together to create a sound that is uniquely ours is an exciting development, and I am very proud to be part of it.

Listen VARITDA’s latest release, “twenty-first” here!