Serena Sun celebrates the power of human connection, storytelling, and resilience through upcoming “Homecoming” single release

As an emerging, multi-talented vocalist, instrumentalist, and creator, Serena Sun has found her niche: pop music that conveys deep feelings. Through her songwriting, she unpacks and interrogates life experiences in a way that creates catharsis and connection among her listeners.

Support from the Demo Recording program over the past year has afforded just such an opportunity for Serena. This past year, the program supported production costs associated with “Homecoming”, one of her upcoming singles. Thanks to this funding, Serena was able to engage noted Vancouver producer Nathan Chiu to ensure that the depth and quality of the single’s sound engineering aligned with her original artistic vision.

But – in a broader sense – who does Serena write for? And, why?

“I write for the dreamers and the doers; the people who look at life as one big and wonderful puzzle that has an underlying force guiding each of us and pulling the pieces together,” Serena says. “I want someone getting into my music for the first time to know that each song is a story.”

In the case of “Homecoming”, the story is, in fact, deeply personal. As a single penned with characteristically-disarming honesty, it delves into Serena’s lived experiences returning to her hometown of Vancouver after seven years abroad. Despite having spent these years seeking fulfillment externally, it was only after her return home that the peace Serena had been craving manifested in full.

Along with the personal significance inherent in “Homecoming”, Serena also hopes that the song – along with other recent tracks: “Butterflies” being but one specific example – will connect similarly with new and established audiences.

“My hope is that these songs resonate powerfully with my current fanbase, while also reaching a new audience thanks to their themes. This will allow me to further develop – and, develop sustainably – in this industry as an independent artist!” she says.

“Homecoming” is just the latest in a series of recent successes for Serena. In June of this past year, her debut EP – Shadows on the Ceiling – took flight. Filled with sung-through stories of resilience, belonging, and loss, each expressed in an accessible and melodic pop style, the EP was warmly received by listeners. As an album, Shadows on the Ceiling entertains and inspires in equal measure, while also reminding listeners that, no matter the challenges they might be navigating, they aren’t alone. In this way, the personal becomes the universal.

“I’m very proud of Shadows on the Ceiling,” Serena continues. “In releasing this collection of songs, I was able to share the stories behind different traumas I’ve experienced, and how these situations have shaped me. Moreover, I also came to truly appreciate the value of collaborating with others to achieve unique and different sounds in my music.”

Beyond its healing properties, this EP release has also had a clear and evident impact on Serena’s continued development as a songwriter.

“The experience of Shadows on the Ceiling informed my decisions in creating “Homecoming”. Thanks to it, I am entering a new era in my music,” Serena says. “I am looking forward to taking more risks, and to trusting my inner judgment when it comes to the lyricism, depth, and emotional and sonic landscapes of my songs moving forward.”

Alongside these recent professional achievements, Serena also draws momentum from many other artists that strive for similarly emotive storytelling in their work. When asked about the musical elements within and beyond her life that have inspired her own creativity and output, Serena is quick to offer, “I have so many inspirations! Currently, I’d say that the most influential artists in my world are Lizzy McAlpine, Julia Michaels, and FINNEAS.”

Delving more thoughtfully into inspiration as a concept, Serena is similarly quick to offer her own words of encouragement to those considering applying to Creative BC in search of support for their own projects.

“I would heavily encourage B.C.-based artists to apply to Creative BC for their support. While grants like these may seem daunting at first, it’s important to remember that there is a human on the other side of the screen. They want to help artists grow and succeed in their artistic endeavors!”

Serena concludes, “I would advise those applying to have clear goals in mind, and to not be discouraged if it takes a few rounds to succeed. It’s all worthwhile in service to your story, and to your art.”

All photos and artwork courtesy of Serena Sun.

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