Trevi Moran: "There are a lot of stigmas I want to break"
As the pop singer celebrates the release of new music, Moran reflects on the slow progress being made in the music industry to embrace and support trans artists.
Trevi Moran has many reasons to celebrate this week. The pop singer has released a brand-new version of her 2014 hit "Echo," along with a fresh new outlook on her life and career. The unveiling of new music marks the start of an exciting new era for Moran who has faced both highs and lows over the past decade. What’s driving her new art and ongoing determination? “Songwriting helps me process everything that I went through,” she tells me. “I want to impact the industry in whatever way I can, but ultimately I just want to inspire the listener.”
Moran started her career on YouTube, where her impromptu performances at Apple Stores catapulted her to viral stardom, leading to her joining the YouTube influencer collective Our2ndLife. She also auditioned for The X Factor US edition, where her undeniable starpower impressed judges and fans alike. A year later, Moran started to release music, with hit songs like "Someone," "The Dark Side," and "Slay" building a solid foundation for her future success in the music industry.
In 2020, Moran shared with the world that she was transgender and would now go by Trevi. Living her truth and feeling comfortable in her own body was the beginning of a process of healing for Moran, who also dealt with addiction at the end of the last decade. Despite these challenges, Moran has remained focused on her goals and her passion for music, using her songwriting as a cathartic outlet and her platform to talk candidly about her sobriety while also advocating for trans artists.
In fact, throughout her journey, Moran has been a vocal advocate for mental health, using social media to share important messages about self-care and coping strategies. She has often spoken about the challenges of dealing with mental health issues in a world that values influencer status and success over self-care and well-being. Through her music, Moran is proving to be a powerful force for positive change, using her platform to uplift and inspire others.
Now, as she embarks on a new beginning, Moran is re-releasing "Echo," a fan-favorite that she first released almost a decade. The double single also includes the rocked-up pop stunner “Confession” that’s another example of Moran’s songwriting savvy. Both tracks serve as a symbol of new beginnings while also honoring her past success. As we check in with Moran, we look forward to learning more about her latest release and reflecting on her journey over the last ten years, which serves as a testament to her unwavering determination and starpower.
Before we dive into your new music, how are you doing?
I am incredible! Self-care is on 100 right now. Sometimes I get caught up and forget to take care of myself, especially if it’s during the week of a release.
I was thrilled to hear that you've remade "Echo" for this new release. What inspired you to revisit this fan favorite?
Nostalgia is one of the most powerful emotions a human can experience. I wanted to evoke this feeling and bring the listener back. Also, the fresh sound and new vocals reflect who I am now.
You collaborated with producer Inverness on the revamped version of "Echo" and "Confession." How did you two come together for this project?
I DM’d him on Instagram because I love his work. We were literally in the studio the next week. It was instant magic. I knew immediately that it was going to work. He helped bring both of my visions to life with these songs and I can’t wait for everyone to hear what’s to come.
How would you describe your personal brand of pop, and what unique elements do you bring to the genre?
Raw, vulnerable, expressive, honest, and audacious. I frequently write about mental health and my experience with addiction. Doing so, it really helps me process everything that I went through in the past. It’s basically like a therapy session with myself.
If you could choose any artist to go on a world tour with, who would it be and why?
Lady Gaga. Her 2009 VMA performance had my 11 year old self crying. She is the reason I wanted to choose this route for my career! That woman is so inspiring in so many different aspects. I loved growing up having her as my role model.
You've navigated the highs and lows of YouTube fame and social media stardom. Looking back on the past decade, what's the biggest lesson you've learned?
Put away your phone more. Keep your mental health in check. There is a distinctive difference between a supportive constructive comment and just straight up hate. Keep pushing through.
Your journey as a musician has coincided with your journey of self-discovery and coming out as transgender. Have you ever faced any challenges or obstacles related to your sexuality or identity in your music career?
The only thing I can really think of is that the music industry is just now slowly adjusting to trans artists. With the rise of Kim Petras and Ethel Cain, these girls are changing the minds of the “big guys” and are pioneering for us to be taken seriously as artists.
How has your journey influenced your music and creative process?
My sobriety, my transition, the death of a manager, and growing up the way I did will allow me to have endless things to talk about in my music. Though I was confused in the moment why these things were happening, I am able to turn that pain into art and something positive.
What message do you hope to convey to your listeners through your music, and how do you hope to impact the industry as a whole?
To the listeners, find your own way to define my music. Everybody has their own perception. If you connect with it, vibe with the music and create your own meaning. As far as the whole industry goes, there are a lot of stigmas I want to break. I want to impact the industry in whatever way I can, but ultimately I just want to inspire the listener and convert songs into real emotions.
What's next for you after the release of this new music? Can fans expect to see you on tour in the near future?
More music!!! I am working my ass off right now and I cannot wait for everybody to hear! Yes I am planning on touring once all of this is out.
🎵 Listen to Trevi Moran “Echo (Trevi’s Version)” and “Confession.”
(Note: This interview has been edited for clarity.)