Nude Magazine

NUDE: Let’s start by giving our readers a little background. How did you first get involved with music blogging? What really inspired you to start Surfing Sound Waves (SSW)?

Irina Liakh: I’ve always been in and around the music industry in different capacities, but blogging was more of a personal creative outlet, starting with getting hooked on Livejournal and documenting some life events, traveling stories, first tries at poetry and making playlists. Then came Twitter, where I would constantly share my music picks. At some point, I decided to launch a website, start interviewing artists and sharing their stories. The art blogging attempt transitioned into what it is right now – a platform for online music discovery. I cover music that personally inspires me, interview amazing artists and spotlight new music daily on Instagram. The audience has been constantly growing and I’m so happy to be sharing my love and passion for music with thousands of people around the world.

NUDE: What’s been the coolest aspect of running your site since it went live? How do you stay on top of all the best and newest music?

Irina Liakh: Being able to turn my passion of sharing music into a source that helps bring music to the masses, having total creative control and not having to compromise. It’s all about genuine connection to the songs I share. I love discovering amazing talent and seeing them blow up later. Their success makes me so happy. SSW plays a part in helping to bring their art to the listeners’ ears. Helping people find their next favorite music is super cool to me. I listen to as much new music as humanly possible each week and typically find music through multiple channels. Soundcloud is my main source. I tend to get lost there and browse through new tracks for hours. I also find new music through Twitter, Spotify, Beats 1, and hundreds of emails I receive from musicians, as well as attending shows in local music venues and festivals.

NUDE: What’s something not everyone knows about you?

Irina Liakh: Aside from music, I’m very passionate about non-profit, social enterprise and creative solutions that make an impact around the globe. I’ve been supporting various local organizations for years and one of my biggest dreams is to be able to build schools all over the world. I’ve been very inspired by buildOn and their work, and I plan to start a campaign to build my first school. I also recently launched the Soulfire LA project as part of my blog, to be able to share inspiring stories of social entrepreneurs, activists and artists, and fundraise for causes I’m passionate about. The idea behind Soulfire is to create a conversation starter and community of like-minded people. I truly believe that if we come together as a collective and raise our voices, we can contribute to meaningful social change.

NUDE: What inspires you on a daily basis?

Irina Liakh: Life in Venice Beach (my absolute happy place), traveling, the ocean, surfing, street art and amazing people. My friends and loved ones are a constant source of inspiration. I’m blessed to be surrounded by people that are pushing limits and fearlessly pursuing their dreams.

NUDE: Who would you like to interview next?

Irina Liakh: There are lots of talented artists on my list, and I’m hoping to make it happen soon. I’d love to chat with Benjamin Clementine, Passenger and Gallant. Illangelo really inspires me as a music producer. I would definitely love to interview him! I would also love to sit down for an interview with Lady Gaga. She’s always inspired use with her artistry and philanthropic work.

NUDE: Name a few bands or artists you’ve been keeping your eye on lately.

Irina Liakh: Ahhh, so many. Here are a few in no particular order: Sofi de la Torre, Gallant, Earl St Clair, EXES, Billie Eilish, Bishop Briggs, Jacob Banks, Lucian, Melvv, Khalid, 6LACK, Sampha and Jessie Reyez.

NUDE: Where do you want to take SSW in the future? What are you looking forward to in the upcoming year?

Irina Liakh: I’d love to launch an app and continue sharing more music and inspiring stories. I’m definitely looking forward to more traveling and creating. I’m very excited about what’s to come!