Exclusive interview with acclaimed singer-songwriter STEFANO MAY on his music journey, his classical music training, inspirations, dream projects and more.

Hi Stefano. tell us a bit about yourself.

I am a soul in this wild world that can't stop chasing the beauty in everything that I see. I strive to describe what I see through the sounds of my music. I was born in Italy and came to this amazing country, where I am now a proud citizen, to meet and get to know some of the most talented people ever.

Tell us more about your music and your single CRAZY.

The reason why I write is to lift people up, inspire hope, and touch their souls by helping them through daily situations. "Crazy" is an example of this as it was written during a period of strong emotions and the need to reconnect with the other person in mind.

How was the process of creating that song and music video?

This song was born in 5 minutes. I sat down at the piano, came up with the chords quickly and then started humming the melody that had the word “CRAZY” in it. I then sent this demo to my lyricist partner, John Smallwood, and after a short period of time we came up with a strong vision of that moment in my life, and that's how “Crazy” was born.  The video was directed and filmed by Wesley Quinn in the greater Los Angeles area. The purpose of the scenes were meant to describe loneliness filled with the fears of the past. 

What’s the most challenging part about this creation process?

The most challenging part of the creative process is when you are inspired to find the right way to put it all together and reach as many as possible without losing yourself in too many creative thoughts.

How did you rise above these challenges?

There are songs that start off in a great way and then I lose myself in the verse or bridge. I put those songs away for awhile and over time, maybe in years, I find the missing parts and magically everything comes together. I definitely find that consistent writing is a way to rise above these challenges. Things take time and you can't rush good inspirations. 

What’s the proudest moment of your career so far?

Playing for Pope John Paul II at his Jubilee in 2000.

What inspires you?

I am inspired by anything that I can see, live, and describe in one's daily life with my own sensibility.

What scares you?

This one is easy - the state of the world as it is today.

Guilty pleasure?

Oh wow, it’s my love for Ginger Beer.

Name your top 5 favorite films of all time

"August Rush”, “Tea with Mussolini”, “Sister Act”, “Devil Wears Prada”, “The Godfather"

Last song that got stuck in your head.

“Snap” by Rosa Linn

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

The best advice that I have received is, “to use a lot of fantasy in anything you do, even when you don’t know what you are doing.”

What’s your ultimate goal?

To be an international performer and reach as many hearts around the world as possible. I want to leave my mark on history.

What are your dream projects?

Getting to know and work with Elton John.

Is there a skill / talent that a lot of people don’t know about you?

I love to cook and garden.