Caren Tevanny’s journey of music and self-discovery
OUR featured artist today is Caren Tevanny, a multifaceted artist whose talents span singing, songwriting and guitar playing.
Once lauded as an underground rock femme fatale, her beginnings are rooted in metal and progressive rock music. She is also recognized for her work with one of the country’s most successful all-female rock bands, General Luna.
We had an interesting chat with Caren and she told us about her journey from having a sheltered upbringing, to her childhood musical interests and eventually to her career now as an artist.
Here is that conversation.
Describe to us your childhood years. What was it like growing-up in the Tevanny household?
Growing up as an only child, I had a very sheltered upbringing with limited social interactions. My parents rarely allowed me to go outside and I had a small circle of friends. As a result, I missed out on typical teenage activities like parties and hanging out with friends in the neighborhood.
However, I was always fascinated by guys who knew how to play the guitar and I wanted to learn too. I asked an older neighbor to teach me a few songs, which sparked my interest in taking formal guitar lessons from beginner to advanced levels.
You are a singer, songwriter and guitarist. Which among all these hats challenges you the most and why?
I find singing to be the most challenging because initially, I began as a guitarist and had no formal singing technique. As I progressed, I realized the importance of learning deeper and improving my vocal skills to complement my guitar playing. I am currently taking up voice lessons to develop my singing abilities further and explore more variations in both singing and playing the guitar.
Do you brainstorm with Curve Entertainment on the kind of music you want to perform including the theme of your own compositions?
I began with Curve 022 and have my songs ready for release, but with my new original tracks. We collaborated on ideas, themes and release schedules.
What were the risks you had to face in deciding to have a solo career?
When I decided to use my own name for my band, I was scared. Most people knew me as a guitarist in an all-female fronted band, General Luna, but not as a singer, so there was uncertainty about how I would be able to establish my name and my new sound. It felt like starting over, but I had to have faith in God and myself. I understood that if I did not believe in myself, who would?
Despite the challenges, I am gradually overcoming obstacles and making progress. Thanks to the support of my family, record label,
What is the theme of your latest song and what was your inspiration in writing it?
The theme of my latest song is about a one-way relationship. A relationship where one person gives their all while the other takes advantage. I was inspired by past experiences of my friends and of my own. I tried to look back to that feeling of hurt yet still giving everything you have.
The title “Pano (How)” symbolizes that internal struggle of knowing what to do, yet feeling trapped in the situation until there’s nothing left to give.
What lies ahead for Caren Tevanny? Where do you see yourself years from now?
I am currently working on my album and writing new songs. I see myself consistently putting out original music. I hope to one day perform on a global scale alongside musicians from the world.