Savannah Kuntz
Evie Richard Live Room
In the ever-evolving landscape of indie music, few artists possess the ability to seamlessly blend raw emotion with intricate instrumentation. Appearing in KLSU’s live studio on February 25, Evie Richard showed that she is one such artist. With a background in classical guitar and a penchant for exploring deep, personal themes, she’s carving out a space of her own in the music world.
Music has always been a constant in Evie Richard’s life. She comes from a musically inclined family, and grew up surrounded by the very melodies that shaped her artistic journey. After spending five years studying classical guitar at an art school, she took a break– only to return through songwriting, using it as an outlet for emotions she struggled to express otherwise. Her transition from classical guitar to songwriting marked a pivotal moment in her career, as she discovered a voice uniquely her own, blending technical mastery with raw, unfiltered storytelling.
When it comes to shaping her sound, Richard draws inspiration from some of the most evocative artists in the indie and alternative scenes. Citing Big Thief, James Mercer, and Elliott Smith as major influences, she acknowledges that some of her songs unintentionally echo their styles. She admires these artists not only for their musicality but also for their lyrical depth and ability to create immersive sonic experiences. Currently identifying her sound as indie alternative, she remains open to exploring different genres, refusing to be confined to a singular label. Her willingness to experiment and push boundaries ensures that she’ll continue to evolve as she matures as an artist.
Richard’s music is deeply personal, often delving into darker themes. Heartbreak, addiction, and mental health struggles are central narratives in her songwriting, reflecting the intensity of emotions she channels into her work. Rather than shying away from difficult topics, she embraces them, using music as a means of both self-reflection and connection with listeners who may relate to her experiences. Her lyrical approach is confessional yet poetic, drawing listeners into a world where vulnerability meets strength. For Richard, music is more than just an artistic endeavor—it’s a means of catharsis and a way to make sense of life’s complexities.
Live performance is a relatively new frontier for Richard. Having played at five venues so far, she’s currently gearing up for the upcoming fundraiser kickoff with a mix of excitement and nerves. Sharing her music on stage is both exhilarating and daunting, but she embraces the challenge as an essential part of her artistic growth. Each performance allows her to refine her stage presence and build a deeper connection with her audience. She views live shows as a space for unfiltered expression, where her music can take on new energy and meaning beyond the studio. The fundraiser kickoff represents another step forward in her journey, providing an opportunity to showcase her evolving artistry in a live setting.
Being a musician while juggling university life is no easy feat. Richard admits that school hasn’t influenced her career goals—she has always known that music is her path. In fact, academia often makes pursuing music more challenging. On top of her studies, she also works as a digital reporter for a TV station, adding another layer of responsibility to her already busy schedule. Balancing multiple commitments requires discipline and sacrifice, she remains dedicated to her craft. Despite the challenges, she finds ways to carve out time for songwriting and performing, ensuring that music remains at the forefront of her life.
While Richard currently has no immediate releases planned, she is eager to record an album—or at least an EP—after graduation. Her ultimate goal is simple: she just wants to play music. She envisions a future where she can dedicate herself fully to her art, creating songs that resonate deeply with listeners. Her post-graduation plans involve immersing herself in the recording process, refining her sound, and continuing to explore new musical directions. As she moves forward, fans can anticipate an artist who continues to grow, experiment, and remain true to her musical roots.
With a solid foundation in classical guitar, a deep well of emotions to draw from, and an unwavering passion for music, Evie Richard is a name to watch in the local music scene. As she steps into the next phase of her career, her journey promises to be one of artistic evolution, authenticity, and profound musical storytelling.