The Talented Carmynn Bradley

I met Carmynn the way a lot of connections start these days — online.

But unlike most digital introductions, ours turned into something real when we met in person on the set of a short film we were both acting in.

What I didn’t realize then was just how layered Carmynn’s creative world truly is.

Yes, she’s a talented actor. Yes, she’s a natural comedian.

But more than anything — and especially for this issue — she’s a musician, singer, and songwriter with something to say.

I write sad songs, happy songs, angry songs, and songs about healing.

Carmynn Bradley

Her debut singles, “American Education System” and “Life is,” are bold introductions to her sound: sharp, introspective, and refreshingly honest.

I sat down with Carmynn to talk about songwriting, identity, and where it all begins — with a feeling, a line, or sometimes just a moment worth capturing.

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SNQLX: Do you write lyrics first, or do they sneak in later like ghosts?

Carmynn: Ordinarily, I write lyrics and music at the same time. I pick up my guitar, and start strumming. The words follow. Sometimes a melody will sneak in, and then I’ll add the guitar to it, but it’s usually a team effort between the two.

SNQLX: What emotion do you think your voice holds, even when you’re not trying?

Carmynn: I have been told I have the voice for sad music, but I think my voice emits honesty more than anything. Perhaps this is a cop out answer, since I don’t like to choose, but I think that it’s true, and that I write sad songs, happy songs, angry songs, and songs about healing. I’m not sure what emotion those songs convey, maybe hope.

SNQLX: What’s a sound or song that you remember from childhood that still sticks with you?

Carmynn: The sound of my grandmother’s voice cheering me on, and the sound of my friend, my sister, and myself singing Britney Spears’ “Lucky” while making up a dance on the kitchen table are two prominent memories that have to do with sound as a child. In high school, what stands out is the sound of swim meets after school, which was a mix of bells, shouts, and splashes. The sound of my grandfather’s music, like The BeeGees, stands out, too, and a list of solos I sang; from Celine Dion to Rascall Flatts, to a rendition of “Hopelessly Devoted to You,” to a deep, Italian, Caro Mio Ben, or an Ave Maria. High school choir brought me “Hark How the Bells,” and other Christmas favorites.

SNQLX: What’s a song of yours that feels like a secret you’re still not sure you should’ve shared?

Carmynn: Well, I haven’t officially recorded the song about my brother yet (he died in 2016), but that does feel like one that will be difficult to deem a finished project, as that might equate to the end of my grief as well, and the subconscious mind likes to hold onto deep sadnesses that become intertwined with our identity. I think a lot of the songs I’m planning to release are going to require some emotional baggage to be left behind.

SNQLX: What do people get wrong about your music — or about you?

Carmynn: Maybe I think people think everything I do is easy, but the tip of the iceberg is held down by hours of practice, and deliberate, intentional priorities.

SNQLX: What’s something you’re still learning to say out loud — on or off the mic?

Carmynn: I need help.

SNQLX: What scares you more: being seen or not being seen at all?

Carmynn: Not being seen at all is definitely the more frightening of the two. Perhaps me becoming a performer was the result of having not been seen, or perhaps I have always craved being seen, and I was always meant to become this–I don’t know. My origin story was one of an athlete, performer, academic, and overall adventurer/overachiever. Now, I still feel I embody those things, though the athlete in me has taken a back seat, and the musician in me has been born.

SNQLX: If your next record had a dress code, what would it be?

Carmynn: Rainbows and mini-skirts.

SNQLX: If someone took a photo of your music, what would it look like?

Carmynn: All the colors in the world 🙂

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Carmynn’s music is as layered as her journey — honest, bold, and full of color. We’re grateful to have her lead the way for SONIQLOOX Issue 001.

Be sure to follow Carmynn on Instagram and visit her website for the latest news and info!

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Bonus feature: Listen to Carmynn share her philosophy on life — no filter, just truth.