We've been OBSESSED with Noa Bar's music, it's danceable but poignant. Her new song "Broccoli" has a beautiful meaning behind it and she aims to help other women who struggle with the same thing, her music really has these messages of empowerment that you can feel through her writing. She's been a huge source of community and collaboration in LA, and we're such big fans of building artist communities. We talked to her about the song, her collaboration process, and what keeps her motivated.
How did you get started in music?
Noa Bar: My musical journey started when I was 4. My kindergarten teacher called my dad and she said I get upset when the other kids don't clap on the beat and my dad decided to put me in drumming lessons, could barely touch the kick and the snare simultaneously, but it worked eventually haha. I started learning guitar when I was 7 and started taking singing lessons when I was 11, and here we are today!
Tell me about the music scene here in LA and your collaboration process?
Noa Bar:I think LA has one of the most beautiful music scenes in the world. I feel very lucky to work with the artists and musicians I got to work with lately. Collaborations happened so naturally in the past year, like with Broccoli. Jaz (professionally known as JVZEL) was at the studio when I came for another session and we became really good friends. I sent her the song a couple weeks after and asked her if she would be willing to do a remix version with me and she just sent back the version she made. It was so good we just sent it to mix right away. She's so talented, I love her.
Tell me about your song broccoli? What’s the story behind it?
Noa Bar: So I was around 80 pounds when I was 18, dealing with eating disorders and body dysmorphia. I would weigh myself 3-4 times a day and decide if I should eat dinner or not. Drinking juices instead of food to save calories. Working out 2-3 hours a day. Until eventually, I lost my period when I was 20, and it took me a year and a half of eating right to get it back. The day I got it back I started writing "Broccoli", and I finished it last summer with the amazing Jonathan Plummer who also produced it.
What has been a big challenge for you as an artist?
Noa Bar: I think the biggest challenge I've had as an artist was to find a unique way to share my music on social media. It took a little time for me to find a way to really show my artistry and my personality, and I've tried many different ways until one worked. But it was worth it you know, I did it my way, I wanted it to feel like me and I really enjoy social media now, I read the comments and still can't believe people are taking the time to sit and watch my little tiny desk (well it's not that tiny when you're 5'1), so wherever you are, thank you. I feel a little more seen and loved as an artist and it's a big deal for me.
What keeps you motivated?
Noa Bar: Honestly now, it's the comment section. I read the comments on one video and it makes me want to make 20 more. People don't understand what it means for an artist to see appreciation from people. It's the biggest motivation.
What advice would you give to yourself 2 years ago?
Noa Bar: I'd tell myself to prioritize mental health and self care a little more. I know it sounds surprising because it's not necessarily about music but it totally is. It's easy to tell yourself to keep going when it's hard and call it "the hustle" but lately when I went back to therapy again, prioritized 7-8 hours of sleep and just generally treating myself better I get to be happier when I create, and that makes business & art better than ever lately. So yea, mental health and self care.
Emily Treadgold
