RA: You have a remarkable ability to completely command a room during live shows. When on stage sharing these soul-baring tracks, what is going through your mind to maintain that poise and connection?
SB: It varies, but when I’m at my best and commanding the room, I’m fully sinking into the song. I enjoy the visceral pleasure of singing, sound moving through my body, and connecting to the lyrics—I never write or cover songs that don’t mean something to me.
When I focus on the music rather than obsessing over the audience size or if I’m good enough, the song resonates more deeply. That communicates a raw emotional connection. Stage performance is an energy exchange; receiving that focus back refuels you. That’s why playing to an empty room is so exhausting—there’s no energy coming back.
RA: Looking ahead at this next chapter, what are three personal or professional goals you are striving toward as an artist and as a human being?
SB: I’m working on a stripped-down acoustic album—a personal and professional goal. Connecting to music started with acoustic guitar, so this feels like returning to my roots. It’s intimidating; without a band, there’s nothing to hide behind!
I’m pushing to co-write more. Historically, imposter syndrome made me chicken out. Tapes in my head tell me I’ll be the weak link with nothing to contribute, but I’m working through that fear.
I wish I could master time management. As an independent artist, unpaid labor hopefully yields future opportunities. Balancing roles as social media manager, agent, PR, and admin alongside creating art and refueling is tough. Finding that balance is a major goal.
Sandra Bouza’s willingness to display raw honesty makes independent music vital and healing. By confronting her own shadows, she creates room for listeners to do the same, proving that strength lies in vulnerability. As she brings her powerhouse vocals and uncompromising storytelling to live stages, her journey remains one to watch.