Cassie Oso creates sound waves from the soul. She is a producer and vocalist creating heartfelt electronic music in Portland. Her approach to art is multi-dimensional, mystical, and always evolving. A world unto itself. In this week's Q&A, Cassie talked to us about her inspirations and creative process.
How did you get started making music?
One very lucky day, I discovered Ableton. I have been making music ever since. It gave me a way to put my ideas into form.
What was the inspiration behind the album?
The inspiration seemed to come out of nowhere. Really, I think the timing just hit. It has been a long time since I felt a real creative flow. I finally accepted that, and eventually, it all started to flow again. I'm thankful for that. I suppose it’s just in the stars right now.
Do you have a favorite song on the album? If you do, why is it your favorite?
My favorite song is "Magic Coyote." When I wrote it, I was really immersed in the whole vibe of it. It lives in its own little mystical world, and it felt good to create there.
Who, or what, has most influenced your music and artistic style?
My meditation practice, for sure. Also Rick Rubin is a big influence on the creative process itself. His approach helps me stay out of my head. I highly recommend his book. He has a quote that really helps me. It's like... "You are one hundred percent successful as soon as you send your project off into the world. Regardless of how it is perceived." I stay in that mindset.
You also lead guided meditations (both in-person and online). Do you feel like that experience affected your approach to creating music?
Oh definitely. Creating guided meditations laid the foundation for my music. Years ago, I bought a mic to create them, and I started to use my voice again. I also learned the technical side of recording and editing. So when I started making music, I could just flow. They are both fun in their own ways. When I feel like I need a break from a song, I’ll switch to guided meditation. I believe the more creativity you use, the more you have. They seem to overlap and feed into each other that way.
What are you listening to currently?
Lana's new album, Das Kope, any unique instrumental I can find, mantras... really anything that sparks me.
Listen to Cassie's album "Scorpio Sounds" now.