Interview: Moira Stafrace (Written)

Moira Stafrace is a prolific artist and producer known for her pop rock sound in the band Chris and Moira. All while expanding her musical horizons with genre-bending collaborations. In this interview we get to know her a little better.

1. Hello! Thank you for taking the time to chat to us. First things first, tell us a little bit about yourself and how you got started.

Spent 30 years writing, recording and producing music in a duo band called Chris and Moira. We performed on many platforms both locally in Malta and away, and worked on various music projects. Now established as a solo artist, I’m collaborating with various musicians and other songwriters.

2. Someone comes to you and asks you to sum up what kind of music you play – what do you tell them?

I’m mainly into pop rock but I have worked on collaborations which led me to do other styles like dance.

3. What’s currently keeping you busy? A new album/EP/single release? A new video? Playing live, or planning ahead?

I’m currently recording new tracks and have various musicians working with me and sharing ideas.

4. What is about this current period that is particularly exciting for you?

Being a part of Black Flamingos roster is very exciting news for me.

5. Tell me about the work that has gone into making it a reality and what it means to you.

I’ve written, produced and recorded songs and albums for a big part of my life and reaching this point is a big plus.

6. Making music and being creative can be a very positive experience and can be very good for the mind. In what way has making music had a positive impact on your mental health?

Personally music has been a big influence in my life, it taught me a great big deal of discipline and courage. During the harder days, music was a life saver, turning pain and anger into positive energy by writing a song for example.

7. It can also be incredibly challenging, more so in the modern times. What have been some challenging aspects of making music and how have you overcome them?

To never quit! Turning each disappointment into a challenge and being disciplined to deliver.

8. How do you handle the online aspects of being in a band? Having to put out content constantly, promoting across several different social media platforms, and having your success measured in likes and follows?

Well I’m not a very big fan of all this to be honest, I find it very unfair that artists are valued according to the amount of Likes and follows… but I have to get it done if I want to be part of the music world!

9. How do you make this part of things enjoyable, and fulfilling, for yourself?

I am a positive person and I make sure that I enjoy whatever I am doing…whether it’s writing, performing or simply singing a song on my sofa at home.

10. Speaking directly to listeners – what would you ask they do to help support you?

To include my songs on their playlists.

11. Outside of music, what do you like to do to relax?

I’m very much into keeping fit, I do outdoor cross training and trekking. I play padel and do weight training. I also love traveling on adventure holidays.

12. Where can people find you?

Right here …click!