Feature: Cheri Lyn Decodes “Venus Calls”
What was the creative process like for this particular "Venus Calls?"
The song underwent quite a journey. I initiated the writing process on the piano, channeling my emotions towards the Iranian Revolution. I was filled with a mix of anger, sadness, and energy, driven to create a song contributing to the fight for freedom. Subsequently, I collaborated with my producer, Tommy, to commence production. Initially, we aimed for a more soulful pop song with a smooth vibe. It had a cool and sassy feel, especially with the catchy "Ohohoho" sing-along part.
However, it felt too soft for a revolution song, prompting me to incorporate more marching sounds. We delved into marching band music, emphasizing drums and horns, eventually settling on a 120 BPM marching tempo. This marked the first time I actively participated in the production to capture the desired feeling. Once the overall vibe was established, I recorded the vocals in my home studio, using approximately 100 vocal tracks. I love harmonies and aimed for the vocals to sound like an army of women supporting the background story.
Could you discuss the lyrical themes or messages conveyed in "Venus Calls?"
From the outset, the goal was clear — to craft an empowering revolution song supporting the people in Iran. However, I wanted to convey a perspective of marching towards victory and liberating women worldwide. The title, "Venus Calls," was inspired by the female goddess Venus, associated with love, beauty, fertility, and victory. I aimed to infuse femininity into the song, representing heart, softness, and motherhood. "Venus Calls" symbolizes the goddess calling her saviors to unite for equal rights and the ultimate freedom of women.
One part of the lyrics reads: "Long time overdue, women's rights on the news. Violence, oppression, but we're resistant. Women up—queens have no fear! Marching on till victory. We're strong enough to give birth; we're the source of all the love."
Were there any memorable or standout moments during the recording sessions for "Venus Calls?"
I'll never forget my producer's face when he saw the multitude of vocal tracks he had to edit! He was already accustomed to my extensive vocal arrangements from previous songs, but with "Venus Calls," I think we surpassed ourselves.
Another notable aspect was recording the lead vocals. Having a home studio, I recorded them twice, striving to convey the right mix of anger, willingness, sadness, softness, and strength. Additionally, we ended up with 16 different mixes due to the song's complexity, requiring an extended process to ensure everything fell into place.
Can you share a bit about your musical background and the journey that led you to where you are today?
I come from a family of musicians, immersed in music from an early age. Singing was my passion, leading me to start my professional career at 19, performing at weddings, festivals, and more. This eventually resulted in around 90 gigs per year worldwide, including Tokyo, Hong Kong, and various European locations.
In 2016, I decided to focus on my original music, relocating from Germany to London for a music degree. I recorded my debut EP, "Secret Love," at Metropolis Studios in London, quickly establishing myself in the UK's blues-rock scene. This journey led to openings for artists like Erja Lytinnen and Walter Trout, as well as interviewing figures such as Beth Hart and Melissa Etheridge.
Returning to Germany in 2019 after completing my music degree, I embarked on producing my debut album, "Saviours," released in 2022. The album received recognition, including a top 20 spot on the International Blues Broadcast Association charts and awards for Best Rock and Best Singer from the German Rock Pop Association. I also had the privilege of contributing to a collaborative Classic Rock Album titled "Circle of Friends" alongside prominent names like Doro Pesch and Robin Beck.
A notable moment in 2022 was sharing the stage with Ed Sheeran during a functional gig at a German festival—a remarkable highlight in my career.
What role do you feel emotions play in your music, and how do you channel them into your performances?
Emotions are everything to me. I cannot perform without them, and the most remarkable performers, like Freddy Mercury, Tina Turner, Aretha Franklin, Britney Spears, Michael Jackson, and Beyoncé, all poured their hearts and souls into their performances. When I'm on stage, I feel like I enter a trance, becoming a different person. I can't explain it, but that feeling has always accompanied me when I sing— a sign that this is my calling.
Connecting with people and touching their hearts through music is unparalleled. It's my mission to empower people and give music the value it deserves—it's a language everyone understands.