What is your first memory that involves music? I’d say getting piano lessons as a kid. I grew up in Singapore and I remember the piano school fondly. There were mahogany walls everywhere, on the top level of this shopping complex that was walking distance from my house. I have many memories there that extend over all the lessons that I took, but that is my first ever memory of being musical! Another would be going on walks in the warm Singapore nights with my MP3 player, playing R’n’B and soul bangers from 2008.

Where did your name – Wild Gloriosa – come from? I am obsessed with flowers – not only is it deeply rooted in South Indian identity, but it’s also a fixation I have always had. The Gloriosa flower is the state flower of Tamil Nadu, where I am from. For me it is a way to be a little more connected to my roots. My name is also Gloria, and I like to think of myself as something that is wild in nature, just trying to grow without any restraints to my most natural from. Thus, Wild Gloriosa appeared.

What is an age that you wish you can do over? Definitely a year that I was in Singapore, so probably seven – those are special memories to me. Being with my entire family, growing up with them. I remember having a distinct memory of saying in my head “wow life is so amazing” when I was seven! I would love to live in that openness again, completely unmasked

And one that you would never? Likely 22 – that was a rough year for me, but it was also significantly transformative for many reasons (which I am sure I will write about one day). It was the lowest point of my life, and I had no idea what was happening. I like to call it the period before my “eyes were opened” – when I finally started going to therapy and starting the journey of healing deep traumas. I am proud of how I have moved through life and how that directly affects the music I make. Staying open and vulnerable in this way has come with challenges, but I choose to stay open in my journey so others like me who may have struggled – or still are – can find hope, joy, or even just a moment of stillness with my music.

What is a song or artist that has helped you through your own growing pains? Cleo Sol. She has helped me through a lot. Words hold so much power on a subconscious level. The way that she consistently uplifts, holds space for and encourages her listeners is exactly what I want to do. I feel so inspired by her. She’s very gentle – her music never makes you feel ashamed of something you have done wrong or are trying to heal from. It is a special type of power.

What is your favourite thing about getting older? The self-assurance and confidence that just seems to come with life experience. I am so much bolder and sure of myself than I was even two years ago, especially in my ability to write, produce and have a voice to speak up with outside of music, as well as standing strong on business and setting boundaries – it has become much easier. Also, friendships start to become stronger – with age comes trust. Much like romantic relationships, my platonic relationships also mean a lot to me, and I have loved growing with my friends.

What is the one piece of advice you’d give to your younger self? I would tell that little cutie that she needs to be her own biggest cheerleader, that mistakes are okay, that she does not need to shame herself into anything! It is ok to be different, weird, an outlier. Your qualities and special traits are what make you so unique. And, most importantly, you are worthy as you ARE!

What is something that you want your future self to always remember? That the inner child is always within us. We must continue to nurture them together. Never let go of the joy of being connected with your most authentic self. Good things have come to us because we have remained authentic and our truest selves! Don’t let go of that, or falter in resilience when things come your way that question it.

The new EP is called Growing Pains – what has been the best part about growing alongside the making of the EP? Having the sessions with Jake (Amy) and Anthony (Liddell). This entire album was made with just the three of us! With sessions comes chats, pre-session café dates, and the strengthening of friendships that grow with time. Jake and Anthony have a way of making me feel like my ideas are valid and important. They see me as an equal and always encourage me, which has given me the room to move comfortably and speak freely. I have loved making music with them because I feel I can be unmasked, and that is very important to me. The excitement after making a hook or a dope line is so fun – I miss that energy already!

Keep your eyes peeled for Wild Goriosa's EP, Growing Pains, when it drops on April 24th. In the meantime, have a squiz at the musician's catalogue below.