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How H.E.R. Finds Inspiration in Unexpected Corners of Her Home

The Grammy-winning singer on the unusual place she often goes to play guitar

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By Architectural Digest US | October 6, 2020 | Travel Leisure

Inspiration seems to follow H.E.R. wherever she goes—she is, after all, a 10-time Grammy nominee and two-time winner. And like the rest of the world, she’s been at home most of the year. While this setup may sound limiting creatively, the California native is in fact embracing it and thriving.

Last week, the 23-year-old musician made history by being the first Black female artist to design a signature Fender guitar, an electric Stratocaster made of alderwood that shines with a Chrome Glow finish. H.E.R. is also gearing up to release a new EP to follow the drop of her latest reggae-inspired track, “Do to Me.” She let Architectural Digest in on how much she’s gotten done in her at-home studio, and surprisingly enough, her closet.

Are you getting a lot of recording done at home?

I am! I’m working on my album. I’m actually working on a reggae EP. I’ve been writing a lot at home, but I’ve also been fortunate enough to go to the studio. Yes, I’ve definitely been creating a lot.

What’s your at-home studio like and which rooms would you say you make the most music in?

I really love my closet and my studio. Those are two places where I can be creative. My studio has this epic mural with a guitar that turns into a tree, and there are Grammys hanging from the tree along with a few of my favourite things, like glasses and my bearded dragon. It’s all cool stuff that pushes me to be creative in my studio. I also have a neon light that says “Where words fail, music speaks,” and it’s one of my favourite quotes.

And what is it about your closet that helps you create music there?

I have this really comfy chair that I just love to hang out on. It’s this very big comfy chair, and sometimes I play guitar in there, which is odd, but I do it.

H.E.R. Image: Instagram

Can you elaborate on how the pandemic has affected your creative process?

It was interesting at the beginning of quarantine. Now, it’s been a little bit easier to maneuver and be safe about it. I’ve been in the studio and just expressing everything that I’ve kind of held in since the beginning of the year, along with the anxiety of it all. I wrote “I Can't Breathe” at home, and songs like that are just very emotional, very intense. I’ve been doing songs like that, and I think this reggae EP has been a nice release. With the vibe I’ve been creating, it’s been tough, but more recently, I’ve found a rhythm in creating this album and finishing it up.

Gratitude is the keyword for getting through this year. Things could be much worse; I know a lot of people who are having the toughest time. It’s been really unfortunate to see the effects of the virus, but I’ve been grateful, practicing gratitude for now, and making the most of the situation. I’ve also been telling the people I love that I love them every chance I get.

How was your experience teaming up with Fender?

I’ve been playing Fender guitars since I started. My first guitar was a black-and-white Strat, and throughout the years, we’ve built a relationship. They created my iconic acrylic strap for the Grammys, and it’s turned into a really dope collaboration. I had the idea to make this amazing iridescent guitar.

Finally, what else can fans expect from you in the near future?

H.E.R.: I’m working on some visuals, some great visuals for my album, and this reggae EP is going to be really different and fun. I’m getting into some acting too. I love acting. Also, just trying to perform as much as I can, even with [the COVID pandemic], virtually.

Acting, that’s amazing! How do you see that panning out?

H.E.R.: I don’t want to give away too much, but it’s another passion of mine, and I’ve been getting into it. One of my biggest dreams when it comes to acting is to be in voice-overs. You may hear my voice in an animated series or film one of these days.

Feature image: Instagram

This originally appeared on Architectural Digest | Author: Isis Briones