Q&A: Janice Lee

in SF Local Bands by

How would you describe your sound?

A blend of synth-pop, disco, and dance, with a sprinkle of r&b/soul.

When did you first become interested in playing music?

I developed an interest when I was first exposed to my father’s Filipino bands growing up, hearing them practice in our garage every week. I attempted piano lessons when I was younger, but that didn’t stick. I picked up a guitar in college and started learning piano/voice shortly after while working at a music school.

What’s the strangest or funniest thing that’s ever happened to you at a show?

During a piano performance, I played the same section twice in a row, but after talking with the audience members after the show, they couldn’t tell I messed up.

What are you listening to these days?

Right now, I’m (still) listening to Silk Sonic’ album, “An Evening With Silk Sonic” Lizzo’s “Special” and Rex Orange County’s “WHO CARES?”

What does music mean to you?

Music means everything to me. It’s therapeutic and caters to all my moods and emotions. It’s uplifting, brings me joy, transports me to my past, and it’s cathartic. It’s a way I can connect with others and myself.

How’d you guys first get together to play music?

My husband actually produces my music, and we first met working at a music school. We individually loved creating and once we started dating, we decided to collaborate on many projects.

San Francisco is full of music history. Who are some San Francisco musicians who inspired you?

H.E.R. is from the Bay Area, but she’s an inspiration! Both Dan the Automator, Journey, and Train are also wonderful and inspirational San Francisco-based musicians.

What’s the biggest challenge in becoming a musician today?

It’s definitely a challenge to keep up with all the social media platforms, churning out content, and having to wear so many hats, but it’s getting easier as I go!

What are some of your favorite Bay Area music venues?

I love The Fillmore, The Independent, Cafe Du Nord, and Bill Graham.

Where do you like to get creative in San Francisco?

My album covers are San Francisco-inspired. I love taking photoshoots around the city, and finding a variety of scenes from parks, residential areas, and SF landmarks.

What’s one thing that people would be surprised to find out about you?

People are always surprised to hear I backpacked the John Muir Trail. I started in Yosemite and ended in Mount Whitney over 6 weeks! It was a memorable and life-changing trip.

Is there anything you’d like to plug?

My first song release of 2022 drops on Friday, July 22nd, 2022 titled, “One Sided Love.” It’s a fun, uptempo track blending synth-pop, and electro-pop, with a touch of late 90s to 2000s elements. It’ll be available on all streaming platforms!

Having released albums under Digital Nations, a label founded by Steve Vai, music critic Louis Raphael has remained deeply connected to the pulse of the San Francisco music scene. Following his tenure as the San Francisco Music Examiner for Examiner.com and AXS.com, he embarked on creating Music in SF® to authentically highlight the vibrant offerings of the city's music scene.