Rock Monsters Romania

After featuring some well-known names, it’s time to meet a constantly evolving artist.

Ioana Vivisenco is a Bucharest-based singer with a background in classical voice, piano, and acting. She writes her own songs and draws inspiration from Depeche Mode, Massive Attack, Daft Punk, and Hurts. Additionally, film scores and classical music play a significant role in shaping her sound.

She has released two singles this year from her upcoming EP, set to drop at the end of March, all of which have been highly praised by the Romanian music press.

I met Ioana at Mastering the Music Business in 2023, and what impressed me the most, besides her music, was her ability to connect with people. The way she talks about her songs and knows how to highlight what truly matters is a rare quality among Romanian artists today.

Now, it’s time to hear from her directly as she shares more about herself, her passions, and what’s next in her career in a special interview!

What are the things people should know about you before reading this interview?

I cook quite well and I love fashion.

Which woman inspired you from the beginning? What have you learned from her as a model?

My inspiration (Romanian artist) was Paula Seling. I was fascinated by her voice and kindness. Later, when I started to study vocal technique I appreciated her even more for her precision and elegance. I am grateful that I had the chance to follow her from an early age. On an international level, I was intrigued by Shakira. In the early 2000’s I remember her wearing little to no makeup and going bare foot in stage. It was amazing for the 4 years old me to see a woman like her: proud of her cultural heritage, involved in the process of making music and sure on her looks no matter what (because sometimes she was wearing so little make up in the flamboyant 2000’s).

Why have you chosen the music industry? Where does your passion come from?

I don’t have a human explanation for this. If I were normal, I wouldn’t have chosen this path. ‘Cause sometimes it’s annoying. But I can’t express myself otherwise.

Was there a moment when another woman warned you about the challenges you might face in the music industry because you’re a woman? What was your reaction?

Honestly… I haven’t worked close to that many women. I worked with men. But… a women that shaped me and my path was my vocal teacher from high school. Misses Georgeta Ionescu prepared me not only vocally but also and mentally. When I started training with her I was very shy 14 y.o. girl. She taught me how to be disciplined, to take care of myself and to be unapologetically me (in my personal and professional life). An with this knowledge I roll through like a pro hahaha.

Have you faced any challenges that could only happen to women in this industry? Can you give us some examples and explain how you overcame them?

Well…. I was fortunate enough not to face any gender based challenge by now in the music industry (I can’t say the same about my personal life). I suppose the best thing one can do in such cases is to stay calm and don’t overreact. I believe that people who choose to have misogynistic behavior are usually unpleasant to both men and women. They are just lacking self-esteem. All you we can do is avoid them and to talk about what is happening.

Have you ever felt pressured to present yourself in a certain way because of your gender?

I know that many women have trouble adapting in a men’s world…. But I don’t feel pressured by men. I feel pressured by other women sometimes. Sometimes it doesn’t come natural for us to support, accept and encourage each other.

What changes would you like to see in the industry to make it more inclusive and welcoming for women?

I would like to see more women supporting women wholeheartedly. You’re not reaching the top faster if you’re dragging someone else down. Also, being a fake supporter can be spotted from a mile away.

How optimistic are you about the future of the music industry in terms of gender equality?

Quite optimistic. I meet more and more nice people who care about your ideas and discipline, not about genre (why would they?!).

Can you share a memorable experience or achievement in your career that you’re particularly proud of?

I am proud of the EP I am going to drop this year. Especially the Outro (it’s already out). I haven’t done something like this before. First… I’ve got the idea for it, I knew EXACTLY how it will sound – start to finish. Then, when I started the project in Ableton…. I got scared and I wanted to give up because I’ve never done something like that. But guess what… I didn’t. Because I don’t do such thing. And now I love it. It sounds EXACTLY how I wanted. It’s a short instrumental piece that encompasses the essence of the entire EP.

Are there any projects or collaborations you’re currently working on that you’re excited about and would like to share with our audience?

This month on the 28th I will release another single from the EP. It’s called “Doare”. Also, I started producing music for another female artist (work in progress).

Looking back on your career journey so far, what are some valuable lessons or insights you’ve gained that you wish you knew when you were starting out?

Ask for help from the right people, know your selling points, have a plan.

What advice would you give to young women aspiring to pursue a career in music? But to the ones that are reading this interview?

Don’t be afraid to speak up  and to create a world that reflects your inner beauty.

If you want to see what’s next for Ioana, don’t hesitate to follow her on Instagram for a behind-the-scenes look at what she’s preparing!

Rock Monsters Romania believes in professionalism and in the chance for women to stand out in an industry that seems dominated by men. Due to this belief, we have decided that once every two weeks on our website, you can find a woman who is making waves in the music industry and offers daily inspiration and support to those around them.

Text by Radu Mihai

Interview by Ionela Pleșan and Radu Mihai