Grace Kuraska’s delicate vocals and poetic lyrics flow together so perfectly, her new song “mosters” details a toxic relationship in a way that feels so relatable. We talked to her about how she stays motivated and her current obsession
How did you get started in music?
Grace: I actually wanted to be an author when I was a kid because I loved writing stories. But I also loved to sing, so eventually those two hobbies came together. I have a journal of terrible lyrics I wrote when I was ten. It started then, and kept growing over the years.
Tell me about your song "monsters" what inspired it?
Grace: “monsters” was very much inspired by my obsession of toxic relationships in books, movies, and TV shows (I love a morally gray love interest as much as the next gal).
Do you read a lot of enemies to lovers books? I'd love to know your recs! I want to get into them!
Grace: Ahh. I mean, I have to say THE CLASSIC enemies-to-lovers novel, Pride and Prejudice.
Book Lovers by Emily Henry. As for fantasy, A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas, Once Upon a Broken Heart trilogy by Stephanie Garber. I could go on and on. I’m a sucker for YA fantasy.
What's your best advice for people in a toxic relationship?
Grace: Oh my gosh, absolutely no one should take relationship advice from me ever…but as for a toxic relationship, I’d say get out!?!
What has been one of the biggest challenges for you in music?
Grace: Putting anything creative out into the world is a very vulnerable thing to do, so that can feel a little icky at times. Sometimes I’m just, like, “What am I doing?? Why am I releasing music? Who do I think I am?? Is everyone judging me??”
I love the quote that says something along the lines of, “Don’t kill the cringey part of yourself, kill the part that cringes” - words to live by!!
What keeps you motivated?
Grace: All of the unproduced songs & demos in my notes app and voice memos that I think (or hope) have a lot of potential. So many ideas that I would love to be brought to life.
What are some artists that have been on your rotation lately?
Grace: So many artists! Lately I’ve been listening to a lot of Chappell Roan, Lizzy McAlpine, Clairo (love her latest album). And Taylor Swift, of course, I’m eternally inspired by Taylor Swift. Oh, and The Outsiders Broadway cast recording for any musical theater fans out there — that’s been my current hyperfixation!!
What's your best piece of advice for women in music?
Grace: Just write whenever possible! And find inspiration in everything — books you’re reading, TV shows you’re watching, etc. Anything can be turned into a song.
Keep up with Grace Kuraska on Spotify and Instagram.
Emily Treadgold
