Theresa returns with her latest single ‘Definition Of Love’, which continues her streak of reinventing the pop music landscape, showcasing her exceptional songwriting talent that rivals some of the very best in the industry today. Theresa’s rise in the music world proves that dreams do not expire. With her unparalleled drive and artistry, Theresa continues to prove that the definition of love is not just about romantic passion—it’s about dedication, resilience, and the love she has for her craft.
How has your approach to songwriting evolved over the years, especially after reigniting your musical career five years ago?
My approach to songwriting has always been to write from my heart. Over the last few years (and in my lifetime!) I have learned not only so much about myself, but I continue to experience so much love, happiness, heartbreak, loss, surprises, etc, etc, that I want what I feel like shining through in my lyrics. It’s just so important for me to believe in what I write, and writing from the heart is a core value I have whenever I write a song. I feel like my music has been getting stronger and stronger because I have gained so much confidence as an artist. It’s incredibly gratifying to listen to my collection of songs and hear my evolution as a songwriter. I love impressing myself.
The music industry has changed significantly in recent years, especially with the rise of streaming platforms. How have you navigated this shift, and how do you feel about the current landscape?
As a consumer of music, although I love having ALL THE MUSIC at my fingertips at all times, I have to admit, it’s a little overwhelming!! SO MUCH TO CHOOSE FROM. So then, as an artist, although I am super grateful to have platforms that can propel my music to listeners around the globe, they in turn have SO MUCH TO CHOOSE FROM! Music discovery was so cool when I was a kid in the ’90s…watching Alternative Nation and 120 Minutes on MTV, and then going to indie record stores to seek out these cool new artists. Now it’s so readily available, but where does one even begin?? As an artist, I just hope my music and story don’t get lost in the shuffle because I do think what I am sharing can bring joy and inspiration to others…which is really my goal as an artist and in life.
“Love Conquers All” was a major hit for you. How did the success of that track shape the direction you took with ‘Definition Of Love’?
I am always looking to evolve as an artist and a songwriter. I love being able to collaborate with different producers and writers to bring my songs to life. “Love Conquers All” is a very special song to me as I wrote those lyrics when I was 26….when I was aspiring to be a professional singer and songwriter, but was tittering with defeat. I now listen to those lyrics and compliment myself on being so wise beyond my years. Like I knew I would rediscover those lyrics later in lif,e and for them to send me a message that love will ultimately save the day. I wrote “Definition of Love” almost 15 years later, but it’s a completely different type of pop song – all about the magic of being in love and finding a partner who complements my crazy life and quirky traits and loves me for me. Love can really have so many meanings.
Your music often explores themes of love, resilience, and self-discovery. What role do personal experiences play in the creation of your songs?
I am always writing from my heart and trying to draw inspiration from people I know, places I’ve been, and experiences I’ve lived through. I NEED to have a personal connectionwith what I am writing. I write what I feel when I feel it, which is extremely therapeutic since I am allowing myself to sit with my emotions and work with them…and sometimes when I am really going through sadness or heartbreak, that is super tough to endure. It would be much easier for me to bury my feelings but instead I want to share them, for better or worse, with the world, in hope that may be someone needs to hear what I have to say to help them get through whatever it is they are feeling – just like I needed with songs that had helped me celebrate, cope or heal me over the years.
Can you describe the significance of the song title ‘Definition Of Love’ and how it reflects your personal view of love, both in relationships and as an artist?
I personally feel that every person has their own “definition of love”. And mine has evolved over time. I think love is magical – having deep feelings for someone or something, whether that be romantic or platonic. I do believe in fairy tale endings, and I do believe that we can have more than one soul mate in our lifetime…and those soul mates may be friends vs. lovers…or they can be both. I love that life can surprise me at any minute if I am open to all the possibilities.
You have a unique dual career as a music executive and an artist. How do you find time to nurture both aspects of your life, and do they influence each other creatively?
It is EXTREMELY challenging to juggle my advertising music career with my popstar dreams. But I wouldn’t have it any other way. I truly LOVE pouring my heart and soul into everything I am doing. I like to give 150% into whatever is on my plate, and although it’s hard, I want to be as present as possible at all times. I am SO grateful to have a career where I work with so many creative and talented minds – sometimes even collaborating “at night” with some artists and musicians that I work with “during the day”. But it takes a lot of effort to balance it all. I am actually currently on vacation trying to refill my cup because one thing I know for sure, giving 150% and attempting to be fully present is draining and it’s SO IMPORTANT to give time back to myself to enjoy life outside of all the hard work I put in (even though I LOVEEEEE working…hahaha).
How do you approach the challenge of writing lyrics that are both relatable and personal? Is there a particular songwriting process you follow?
I write whenever an idea comes to me. It may not be a fleshed-out or fully baked song yet, but I need to either get the idea down in my songbook or in a voice memo before the moment passes. I am a lyric and melody girl, so I come up with concepts in my head…sometimes married to a melody, or I come up with a melody or a hook that I then marry lyrics to. Again, writing music is so therapeutic for me, and I am absolutely in love with the process and so grateful that I have this special gift that I can share with the world.
From your early days of performing in NYC to now, what’s been the most rewarding aspect of your music career so far?
Hands down, the most rewarding aspect of my music career is having people listen and connect with my music and my story. I have a lot of people who not only love my music but are also inspired by my journey. That is honestly so amazing to know that I might be helping someone discover their own specialness or might be inspiring someone going through “a time” to keep moving forward with my lyrics. It’s an incredible feeling.
Looking ahead, what’s next for you in 2025 and beyond? Any upcoming projects or live performances that fans can look forward to?
I am always looking ahead. I have A LOT of music in production right now, so I’m super looking forward to getting those finished and potentially releasing an EP later this year. I am in the midst of planning some shows in NYC as well as LA, which I am so excited for. I just want to keep on creating and performing my music. I am SO OPEN to all the amazing possibilities and surprises that are on the way. I am just getting started.
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