Interview Sophia Mengrosso

Sophia Mengrosso is a classically trained opera singer who fearlessly blends elegance and power on Unforgiven, a deeply personal metal album about healing, empowerment, and finding your true voice.

1. Sophia, congratulations on Unforgiven! As a classically trained opera singer, what drew you toward the heavier, more aggressive sounds of rock and metal?

My first encounter with heavy music happened when I watched music videos “Bring Me to Life” by Evanescence and “Nemo” by Nightwish. I was instantly drawn to that music style, heavy instruments blended with amazing female vocals. Actually I find a lot of classical elements in that music. As a composer I can see how much work musicians put into that. I never really analized so deeply why I loved rock and metal so much, it is just so complex in its own way, maybe similar to classical music. And, metal is so powerful!! Especially as a female singer, it gives me all the abilities of expressing myself, and telling my story! I never had as much freedom in the classical world.

2. Unforgiven is a deeply personal album. How did you approach writing these songs emotionally and artistically?

“Unforgiven” is my personal diary, a collection of my experiences in life. It has been a long journey for me, and this is what my album is about. I would call it a “transformation”. From being a little girl, who is afraid to be what she wants to be, dependent on others opinion, being told what to do and how to do, being told she will never succeed to a woman that is not afraid to share the most personal stories. Half of the album was written a long time ago, and honestly I did not want to go back to my “old self” . It was like going to pick on a wound that has healed…. However, I really needed to do that, and the more I postponed that the more people around me told me I should do that. Deep inside I knew I had to do that. So, emotionally, I would call the process of writing as a “healing my soul” kind of process. Because you can only reject your emotions so much until it explodes, and that is no good. I learned that the hard way. And I am so thankful for music, it really saves lives:))) It did save mine. Artistically, and this is my favourite part… It was just a fun chaotic process! This is how I write my music, it comes from the chaos of my thoughts and feelings! I would actually say that emotionally and artistically it is one element to me. Because I never plan anything in perfect order, because it does not work this way for me. I mean, of course, I have a plan, but I am very emotional, and so is my band!

3. You’ve mentioned vulnerability and fear of being misunderstood. How did you find the courage to turn those fears into music?

Yes! The fear of being misunderstood has always been my biggest fear as an artist! However,I have never been told that by someone directly. But, while I was studying music, I was around all of these super “professional” people , it made me doubt myself quite often. People in this industry, especially in the classical world, are very eager to make you feel small… In my case I felt very limited and caged… So, I found my escape in composing my own music. And, heavy music just pushed me to be more and more to the place where I could be more creative, and it gave life to my voice!

4. Which track on Unforgiven was the most difficult to write, and why?

Demonizer! It was the most difficult track to write because it is very raw! I was very nervous before releasing this song. I did not know how it would be received by my listeners! It is also very personal! People asked me what “Demonizer” means, and why would I call it “Demonizer”. It is very deep, personal, and empowering.

5. You’ve cited influences like Evanescence, Nightwish, and Halestorm. How do you balance inspiration from those artists with maintaining your own unique voice?

I find inspiration in their music, because it touched my soul, and it helped through my hard times of discovering who I really was as an artist. I am not trying to copy anyone, but I find inspiration and strength in their music. I would say that not even the music but more the meaning of it. It is just so real, and everyone from the inspiration list is also so real and original. I think we all have our icons, whether it is art or just everyday role models. At the time when I was exposed to Evanescence, Nightwish and other metal bands I was in need of strong role models in music, and I found what I needed!

6. There's a strong message of empowerment throughout Unforgiven. What does empowerment mean to you personally?

First of all for me empowerment means to accept who you are before accepting any other opinions. Who am I? What do I want? And who do I want to let in my life and who is not allowed? I still ask myself all the time. For me, my album “Unforgiven” is my transformation, my journey that I wanted to share with everyone, and I want to empower others to be strong, and go after your dream. Do not doubt yourself, and do not wait for the right time, because there is never the right time, the right time is now. Also, nothing and noone is perfect. Great things are not perfect! We are born to learn and chase our dreams. This is what empowerment means to me, at least in a few words. I can talk about it forever, there is so much more to this!

7. Classical and metal are often seen as opposite worlds. How do you incorporate your operatic training into such a high-energy genre?

For me it's not so opposite! I think all artists are creators and you just have to start working and creating. I am thankful for my vocal training in classical music but I never believed that I should be limited in some ways. I love both styles for different reasons, so for me they are not as opposed to each other.

8. The album speaks a lot about breaking silence and confronting shame. What kind of reactions have you received from listeners who've connected with these themes?

I have received a lot of support from my listeners, and I am extremely thankful to them! This has always been a goal of mine. To connect with people and get strong together! I want to break this pattern of shame and silence that we are taught these days! Turn up your volume and your lights! It is ok to be too much! Do not hide your feelings!

9. Was there a specific turning point in your life or career that made you say, “I’m ready to make this album now”?

Yes! About three years ago I committed to releasing my music. Basically decided to not worry anymore about what happens, and how it would be received! Honestly, I felt so much better after that, it was a big relief for me! And this is my mantra from now on, just do it, just be bold.

10. You’ve said that you're not trying to be different but to be true to yourself. Has staying authentic been a challenge in the current music landscape?

Not at all! Just do what you love and that is already enough for being authentic! And everything else will follow!

11. Looking ahead, are there any collaborations or projects you're especially excited about?

Yes! I am very excited to collaborate with other heavy metal musicals! There is something very cool coming up and I can not wait to share it! We are releasing a single and doing a tour together! But you will hear more about it very soon!

12. Finally, what message do you hope Unforgiven leaves with its listeners, especially those who might be struggling to find their voice?

Be strong, take space, use your voice, believe in yourself. Do not let anyone make you feel small. And, most importantly, stop blaming yourself! You are perfect! You are enough!

Sophia Mengrosso | Rock&Opera.

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