Behind the Music: An Exclusive Interview with Lexi Layne

Photo Credit: Ashely Von Helsing

I had the opportunity to conduct an interview with vocalist Lexi Layne, during which we explored her upbringing, musical journey, and creative endeavors, as well as her personal interests and hobbies.

Amit Ahuja: I would love to hear more about your background and personal journey. Tell me where you grew up and how your upbringing influenced your values and perspectives. Additionally, I’m curious about your cultural heritage and how it has shaped your identity. What specific experiences or milestones have particularly impacted who you are today?

Lexi Layne: I was born in New Jersey, spent a few early years in New York, and grew up in South Florida. I come from a loud, loving Spanish-Italian New York family — especially on my mom’s side, where Sunday dinners and big family gatherings were the norm. Being an only child and having a father who was in and out of my life, I learned to rely on myself early on. It wasn’t always easy, but it made me strong, independent, and grounded in who I am.

Amit Ahuja: I’m excited to learn more about your musical journey. Could you share a specific moment or experience that ignited your passion for music? Perhaps it was a memorable concert you attended, a song that deeply resonated with you, or a moment of inspiration that motivated you to pick up an instrument. -

Lexi Layne: My passion for performing began with my first musical at six years old — Treasure Island. I played a skeleton who popped out of a chest, and I was the only one without a microphone because my voice was naturally loud and clear. In that moment, I felt powerful. I realized my voice had strength and could take me far — and that realization lit the spark that’s guided me ever since.

Amit Ahuja:  Is there a specific musician whose creativity and life story have significantly influenced your decision to pursue music? Did their journey inspire you to take the leap and form your band? -

Lexi Layne: At a young age I was deeply influenced by artists like Pink and Amy Lee from Evanescence. Pink’s story and unapologetic authenticity really resonated with me, while Amy Lee’s voice and the emotional depth of her music left a lasting impact. Their artistry made me feel seen and understood, and it sparked a sense of purpose in me — like I was meant to create, express, and connect with others through music in a similar way

Amit Ahuja:  I've been immersing myself in your music lately, and it deeply resonates with the powerful essence of dark feminine energy. I’m curious about what inspired you to delve into this compelling genre. Are there specific experiences or influences that shaped your exploration of these themes?

Lexi Layne: Growing up, I felt deeply connected to the darker, more mystical aspects of feminine energy — particularly the themes of empowerment and inner strength. That connection grew even stronger when I began working with the energy of the goddess Lilith. Through her, I found a powerful sense of resilience and authenticity that shaped not only who I am, but also the music I create. It wasn’t something I forced — it felt natural, like my sound found me. I simply followed where that energy led, and it became the foundation of my artistic voice.

Photo Credit: Doublewide00

Amit Ahuja: Additionally, how do you weave these intricate concepts into your songwriting process?

Lexi Layne: All of my songs are rooted in real-life experiences, many of which explore darker, more vulnerable moments. Writing from that place of honesty has been deeply healing — a way to process pain and transform it into something meaningful. The music naturally reflects that emotional depth, often landing in a darker realm, but always with the intention of truth and connection.

Amit Ahuja:  How does exploring darker themes help you process or celebrate life?

Lexi Layne: For me, it’s a true form of release. It’s about peeling back the layers, ripping off the Band-Aids, and diving deep into difficult experiences. By giving those moments new life through music, I’m able to see them in a different light — transforming pain into something purposeful. It’s a way of turning something negative into something healing, both for myself and, hopefully, for others who listen.

Amit Ahuja: Please provide an in-depth explanation of the songs you have released so far. What personal significance do these songs hold for me, and what messages am I aiming to communicate through them?

Lexi Layne: My newest releases center around shedding old layers, breaking

free from toxic patterns and stepping into the woman I’ve always wanted to become. At their core, these songs are about growth, healing, and self-empowerment. I hope listeners can turn to this music during difficult moments and feel seen, understood, and reminded that they’re not alone in

what they’re going through.

Amit Ahuja:  You've recently released an intriguing new track called "The Devil." Could you delve into the inspiration that fueled the creation of the lyrics for this song? What personal meaning does it carry for you, and what do you hope your fans will take away from it? Additionally, how did your collaboration with Chaney Crabb come to fruition? Lastly, can you share some insights about the process of creating the music video for this particular track?

Lexi Layne: The Devil is by far the most vulnerable song I’ve written to date. It stems from my relationship with my father — a connection that was deeply inconsistent, toxic, and shaped by greed and selfishness. Releasing this song felt like letting go of a heavy weight I’d carried for years, and I’m grateful it’s now out in the world. My hope is that listeners who have experienced similar struggles — whether with a parent or another family member — can find something in this song that resonates. Sometimes we need the reminder that just because it’s blood doesn’t mean it’s right.

Lexi Layne: When my producer, Kevin McCombs, and I were writing the track, we both felt it needed something more. Kevin had previously worked with Chaney and suggested we send her the song. She connected with it immediately and jumped on board. Working with her was incredible, and I couldn’t be happier with how the song came together. The idea for the music video came from a dream I had, and I drew visual inspiration directly from that experience. I wanted the tone to feel dark, brooding, and a bit uncomfortable — and that’s the world we created. Originally, it was fully animated, but we made a last-minute decision to add live-action shots. I’m so glad we did — it brought a rawness that made the story even more impactful.

Amit Ahuja: What is the experience of being an independent artist in today's music landscape?

Lexi Layne: It’s interesting—social media has changed everything. While there are still challenges, I think it’s easier in some ways than it was 10 or 20 years ago. I’m happy with the I have built through it.

Amit Ahuja: If you were given the fantastic opportunity to open for any band or go on a world tour, which bands would you choose to join on this exciting journey? Additionally, what specific reasons motivate your desire to tour alongside them?

Lexy Layne: That is such a hard question, there are so many but right off the bat I would say Evanescence, Jinjer, In This Moment, Linkin Park and the list goes on. They are all super strong bands, and it would be an honor to open for them.

Amit Ahuja: What insights or recommendations do you have for musicians who face rejection or experience setbacks in their careers? Specifically, how can these artists cope with disappointment and use those challenges as stepping stones for future growth?

Lexi Layne: Looking back on my journey, I’m truly grateful for the things that didn’t work out. Over time, I’ve come to see rejection not as a setback, but as redirection, an intentional nudge from the universe guiding me toward the path I was meant to walk. What may feel like a disappointment in the moment can often be a necessary step forward, a reroute rather than a roadblock. Trust that you’re still moving toward where you’re meant to be.

Amit Ahuja: What do you wish more fans understood about the business side of music?

Lexi Layne: I wish more fans understood how much happens behind the scenes. It's not just about making music—there’s strategy, planning, and a lot of personal investment involved. Every step takes time, resources, and a strong team. It’s a full-time commitment to build something that lasts.

Amit Ahuja: What unique qualities set you apart as a remarkable singer?

Lexi Layne: Well first off thank you for that compliment. I truly believe every singer has some

kind of special quality to them. I believe the rawness and emotion I put behind all my songs gives me an extra spark. I aspire to have all my fans FEEL the music I create.

Amit Ahuja: How do you take care of your voice?

Lexi Layne: I drink a lot of tea, especially throat coat or peppermint to take care of my voice. I do my best to avoid yelling, even though I somehow still end up being the loudest one in the room, no matter what!

Amit Ahuja: Do you follow a specific vocal training routine?

Lexi Layne: I don’t follow a strict routine, but when it comes to live shows, I definitely have a few go-tos. I drink a lot of tea, and right before stepping on stage, I’ll take a sip of olive oil to help soothe my voice. A solid vocal warm-up is also a must, it really helps me feel grounded and ready to give my best.

Amit Ahuja: What is the experience like when you step onto the stage and share your music with an audience? Can you describe the emotions that wash over you as you perform and see people engaged with your art? Additionally, do you have a favorite performance that stands out in your memory, and what made it so special for you?

Lexi Layne: Some of my favorite moments happen just before stepping on stage. It’s when I take the time to ground myself, mentally prepare, and fully connect with the emotions behind each song. I try to carry that energy with me into the performance.

Lexi Layne: One of the most memorable shows for me was last year at the Observatory in Santa Ana, California. The crowd was incredible—so full of energy. I remember fans reaching up toward me for the first time, and it was such an overwhelming, beautiful experience. I walked off stage and just cried tears of joy. It was one of those rare moments where I truly felt like, “I’ve made it.”

Amit Ahuja: We would be pleased to learn about any noteworthy projects, upcoming tours, or collaborative efforts you have planned for the near future. Your insights would be greatly appreciated.

Lexi Layne: I do have an EP coming out very soon, I am super excited for that to be out. Some shows are in the works as well.

Amit Ahuja: Can you share three individuals who have significantly influenced your life, positively or negatively, and why?

Lexi Layne: The first person who’s had a major positive impact on my life is without a doubt my mom. She’s been by my side since day one—supportive, loving, and always encouraging me to push for greatness in this career. I truly don’t think I’d be where I am today without her unwavering belief in me. The second person is my partner. He’s genuinely the most incredible man I’ve ever met. His love, support, and constant encouragement have helped me embrace who I am, fully and unapologetically. He’s been my number one fan, and his presence in my life has been a true blessing. And, in a more complex way, my father has also had a deep impact on who I’ve become. Though our relationship has brought more pain than peace, the challenges and trauma I faced because of it have shaped my resilience and voice. I honestly don’t believe my music would carry the same depth or emotion without those experiences.

Amit Ahuja: Are you a passionate fan of horror stories and films? If so, what sparked your interest in this thrilling genre? Was it a chilling movie that left you breathless, a haunting novel that kept you up at night, or perhaps a classic ghost story told around a campfire?

Lexi Layne: I’ve always loved horror films, my grandpa would always tell my cousins and myself ghost stories around the camp fire. I also always loved the the history on witches and vampire as well.

Amit Ahuja: Do you believe in any supernatural or paranormal?

Lexi Layne: Yeah, I’m definitely a believer in the supernatural and paranormal. I’ve had

a few experiences when I was younger that really made me open to that

side of things. It’s always fascinated me.

Amit Ahuja: If you could step into any fictional horror world for 24 hours (safety not guaranteed), which would you choose?

Lexi Layne: If I could step into any fictional horror world, it’d definitely be Dracula. I’ve always been drawn to the whole vampire lore—the history, the books, all of it. There’s just something so intriguing about that world. It’d be pretty wild to

experience it from the inside.

Amit Ahuja: What are your favorite movies, and why are they significant to you? Is it the story, the characters, the visuals, or something else that resonates with you?

Lexi Layne: Some of my favorite movies are Edward Scissorhands and Coraline, I’m a big Tim Burton fan. I’ve always loved how he brings such unique worlds to life. But I’m also a sucker for a good rom-com—How to Deal, Because I Said So, A Cinderella Story. And honestly, I’ll never say no to a Disney movie. It really just depends on my mood!

Amit Ahuja: What TV shows do you enjoy and look forward to watching? What captures your attention in these shows—perhaps the surprises, character development, or overall production quality?

Lexi Layne: Honestly, I’m into a lot of brain rot TV—the kind of stuff you can just throw on

and not really think too hard about. But I’m also super into serial killer documentaries and thriller shows. Pretty much anything that lets me zone out and unwind.

Amit Ahuja: Which books do each member appreciate the most, and what makes them significant to you? Is it their writing style, the themes they address, or the feelings they inspire?

Lexi Layne: Growing up, I was really into books about vampires and witchcraft—that kind of stuff always pulled me in. I’ve also been a big fan of Edgar Allan Poe, and I really love poets like Michael Faudet. His writing is so emotional and beautifully done. Which books do each member appreciate the most, and what makes them significant to you? Is it their writing style, the themes they address, or the feelings they inspire? -Growing up, I was really into books about vampires and witchcraft—that kind of stuff always pulled me in. I’ve also been a big fan of Edgar Allan Poe, and I really love poets like Michael Faudet. His writing is so emotional and beautifully done.

Amit Ahuja: Which podcasts do you passionately recommend, and what makes them stand out?

Lexi Layne: Two of my favorite podcasts I've been on has to be “Haus Of Cult” and “She’s With The Band” Both female run and super supportive around women in metal. They both really listen and sincerely care.

Amit Ahuja: I'm really curious to hear about your favorite bands or music artists! I’d also love to know about the most unforgettable concert experiences you've had while seeing them live.

Lexi Layne: Some of my favorite artists are Evanescence, Lady Gaga, Christina Aguilera, Jinjer, Poppy, Spiritbox, Disturbed, and Korn—the list seriously goes on. One of the best concerts I’ve ever been to was Gojira, Korn, and Evanescence. They were absolutely unreal… just totally breathtaking live!

Amit Ahuja: What hobbies or interests ignite your passion outside of your musical endeavors?

Lexi Layne: I really love taking care of my body, it feels good. I’m super into the gym and fitness classes, and I actually really enjoy cooking too. It’s super calming and kind of like therapy for me. I’m also big on traveling and just doing fun stuff—whether it’s exploring new places or hitting up amusement parks, I’m all about the adventure.

Amit Ahuja: What does success mean to you personally? -Success to me is about going after your goals and actually making them happen.

Lexi Layne: It’s really more about the journey than anything else. In my eyes, I feel

successful—in my career, my personal life, and the relationships I’ve built. That’s

what it’s all about for me

Amit Ahuja: How do you define true happiness in your life?

Lexi Layne: True happiness, to me, is feeling at peace with who you are and where you’re at in life. It’s those little everyday moments—laughing with people you love, doing what makes your soul feel full, and not constantly chasing more. It’s about being present, grateful, and true to yourself.

Amit Ahuja: Could you take some time to share your personal experiences with mental health? Reflect on how these experiences have affected different areas of your life, such as relationships, work, and personal growth. What specific insights have you gained from these moments? Additionally, think about how you have managed the challenges related to your mental health. Share strategies, coping mechanisms, or support systems that have significantly impacted your journey.

Lexi Layne: Growing up, I definitely went through some tough phases that took a toll on my mental health. There were times when the anxiety was heavy, and I felt really low. For me, meditation ended up being one of the only things that truly helped me cope. Even now, I still take time to shut out the world, breathe, and just be with myself. It’s made a big difference.

Amit Ahuja: What insights would you like to share with others around your age who are grappling with mental health challenges?

Lexi Layne: I’d say find that one thing that really brings you peace and helps you feel

grounded—and just stick with it. Let it be your go-to.

Amit Ahuja: What message would you share with everyone if you had the

world's attention for five minutes? -I’d say really go after what you love with everything you’ve got.

Lexi Layne: Don’t worry about what other people think or say, your journey is yours alone. When you focus on what truly makes you happy and fulfilled, life feels so much more meaningful. So, embrace who you are, take those chances, and live your life to the fullest without holding back. That’s where the magic happens.

Amit Ahuja: Thank you very much, Lexi Layne, for sharing your story with us today.

Photo Credit: MayApologies

Please be sure to explore her music and find everything related to Lexy Layne at

https://www.lexilayne.com/

**Photos are by MayApologies, Doublewide00, and Ashely Von Helsing, Video by Lexi Layne unless otherwise noted***