Rock Monsters Romania

Sometimes all you need is a guitar to create intimacy and to remind people to reconnect with their feelings.

Our next guest is the one and only Valeria Stoica, an iconic name in Romanian alternative music and the first Romanian ambassador of Spotify EQUAL. Born in Nisporeni, in the Republic of Moldova, and now based in Berlin, she first gained attention with her debut single “Remember,” released after her memorable appearance on Moldova’s got Talent.

In 2020, she released her debut album “I Don’t Like Roses,” which was nominated for European Independent Album of the Year at IMPALA Awards. Since then, her career has continued to grow: she has performed at some of the biggest festivals in Romania, such as Electric Castle and Summer Well, and has opened concerts for artists like Jacob Lee and Passenger. In 2025, she performed at Eurosonic Noorderslag (ESNS), released her second album “Go Outside and Hug a Tree,” and opened the Justin Timberlake show at Electric Castle after being selected by Justin’s team.

With her third album expected in late 2026, we’re sure there are even more great things ahead. We spoke with her about her career, her musical influences, and her expectations for the future in a special interview.

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

That I’m someone very passionate about what I do, and involved (sometimes impulsive) in every step: from writing songs in my bedroom to what you see as a final result, for the last 10 years.

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

I have a lot of female artists who inspired me and gave me the courage to show my music to the whole world. One of them is Feist. She is so authentic with her music, poetry, and raw, physical performance. She showed me that you can be “quiet” and “powerful” at the same time.

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

I didn’t know I was going to be in the music industry when I started making music. I definitely chose the music. That was the passion. It just came out of me. I felt that I could share it with other people who feel the same way. So here I am. And every day, I’m more grateful that I can connect with “strangers” and feel them as a very close friend through music.

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?

Not particularly. I felt it more as a constant atmospheric pressure. But I remember early on being told that my music is “too quiet” or “too personal” and that it would be a challenge to carry a big stage. Actually, this gave me more courage to do whatever I want and fight for who I am as a whole person.

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?

Yes, being taken as “soft” and “emotional,” that you can’t carry a project on your own. And some people, despite this, are using this as an excuse to gain more power and credibility. I’ve overcome that by being deeply involved in every layer of my records. If you know what you’re doing, they can’t control it, and you’re more confident.

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

Yes. And this question is on point. I’ve had a few experiences with people trying to push me to become a version of myself that doesn’t exist. Also, regarding the way I look. Maybe I should dress more sexily or put on makeup that will make me prettier and “easier to sell.” I had to step back so many times to keep my perspective clear. Everyone has to show themselves the way they feel, and only if they want to. And this is what makes everyone unique.

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

I’d love to see a world where the industry supports the longevity of women. One that supports the complexity of being a woman, moving through different seasons of her life, like aging and being a mother. And not “getting rid of them” just because it’s not marketable anymore, which is so common in this industry. You have to be young, happy, and excited all the time, otherwise, people will not need you. And it’s frustrating, because it’s simply impossible, and we have bigger purposes than pleasing someone artificially.

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

I’m hopeful because I see the younger generation of women, and not only women, who are more confident and don’t ask for permission. And that’s a beautiful thing. We live in a difficult era for artists in general, struggling with big labels and trying to make it work, but at the same time, the internet has done something good: connecting easily with other artists and showing your value and talent that can reach so many people around the world. I think big labels are losing power, and I’m low-key happy.

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

I have so many. Every show charges me with motivation to continue, because as an indie artist it can take so long to see results, and sometimes it’s overwhelming. But the recent one was playing on the same stage as Justin Timberlake at Electric Castle Festival. It’s something that was not on my list; I couldn’t even imagine it as an achievement. But even more so because it rained so badly, and I was afraid no one would come, and still people showed up enjoying my music, and it was so beautiful.

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

I recently moved to Berlin, and I started working on my 3rd album. I’m very excited about this one. It feels like it’s me 100%. The idea for this one came through the challenges and generational problems, as well as how I feel as a woman in my 30s and the struggles coming from this. It’s a heavy one.

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?

I wish I hadn’t taken myself so seriously in many situations and had just listened to my pure intuition. And don’t compare myself to other artists if it makes me feel small. Everyone has their path, and you have to follow yours.

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 of your feelings. Use them to create. The industry will tell you to be loud, to make fireworks, otherwise it will not work. And it will work, as long as you are honest with what you do. It depends on what you want from your career. To the ones reading: be passionate about what you do, find that sparkle that makes you alive, shift it the way you feel fulfilled.

If you want to see what she’s up to in Berlin, how the next album is shaping up, and where you can catch her live in the near future, make sure to follow her on Instagram.

Rock Monsters Romania believes in professionalism and in the chance for women to stand out in an industry that seems dominated by men. Because of this belief, every March on our website you can find 8 women who are making waves in the music industry and offering daily inspiration and support to those around them.

Text by Radu Mihai

Interview by Ionela Pleșan and Radu Mihai