Boston-born and Cardiff-bred, Mystee is the solo project of singer-songwriter and seasoned front woman Ilana Held. Drawing inspiration from love and loss in the face of a long spree of bad luck, Held weaves an American folk mentality into her hook-laden indie pop music.

In this interview spotlight, I chat with Mystee about the latest release, motivations and more.

Full Q&A along with links and music.

What’s something you’d like readers to know about your latest project?

My latest single, “deep end,” is inspired by my journey with roller skating. It was through skating that I learned to reclaim my voice and my courage and take risks again after a long period of extreme self doubt. Skating was the only thing I really had for a while and it’s the reason I’m still here making music. 

How does this project compare with your other release(s)? Was there anything specific you were trying to accomplish?

My past two singles were somewhat of an experiment to see if people would still be interested in hearing why I have to say after a long pandemic break. This new single is building on that and I hope that it helps me get my name out further and expand my fan base into the west where I now live. 

What motivates you to create music?

For a while, everything did. And then nothing did. It really kind of ebbs and flows. This new single was definitely inspired by what skating taught me: how to pick myself up in hard times and pull myself out of the pit. It’s all about self reliance. 

What’s one of your first or most powerful music memories? Did that play any role in driving you to create?

My first and probably most important musical memory was being in pre school and someone’s dad came in to play guitar. I remember staring at him in awe the whole time thinking “I was meant to do that” and for my sixth birthday, my parents got me a guitar. 

If you could collaborate with anyone – dead or alive, famous or unknown – who would it be and why? If it’s an indie/DIY artist, please include a link so readers can check them out.

I know this may seem like such a predictable answer, but I would LOVE to write with Paul McCartney. I think our writing styles would be really complimentary and we’d definitely have a lot of fun with it!

What was the last song you listened to? And who is one of your favorite all-time bands/artists?

I honestly can’t remember what I last listened to. I was on an airplane last night so I was listening to music basically all day. My all time favorite, as you’ve probably guessed, has to be the Beatles. But right now I’m on a Big Thief kick. 

Where is the best place to find you and stay connected?

Instagram. @mysteemusic

I really appreciate Your time. Anything else before we sign off?

Thank you so much for having me! Keep an eye out for the “deep end” music video coming soon!