**A Minute with: Olga Prepis, Musician**
In the vibrant world of music, few artists manage to carve out a unique identity while staying true to their roots. Olga Prepis, an independent singer-songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist, is one such artist. With her recent debut EP, *If I Was Someone Else*, she is making waves in the alternative pop genre, drawing inspiration from her Greek Cypriot heritage.
Olga divides her time between Nicosia, Cyprus, and New York City. This bi-continental lifestyle allows her to stay connected with her family in Cyprus while also pursuing her musical career in the bustling environment of New York. “I love spending time with my family in Cyprus,” she shares, emphasizing the importance of her roots in shaping her artistry.
Her daily routine reflects a blend of discipline and creativity. When asked about her breakfast habits, she humorously notes, “An egg or two, or if I’m running late, just coffee!” This pragmatic approach to mornings sets the tone for her perfect day, which she describes as starting with a slow morning, followed by a workout, writing music in the studio, and ending with a dinner surrounded by loved ones, capped off by watching the sunset by the water.
Olga’s musical influences are as diverse as her breakfast choices. Currently, her car playlists include artists like Noah Kahan, Bad Bunny, ATEEZ, and RACK, showcasing her eclectic taste. “My playlists are all over the place, and I love that,” she states, reflecting her openness to various musical styles.
One of her most cherished possessions is the book *The Kite Runner*, which she describes as “heartbreaking, beautiful,” and a powerful reminder of love, loyalty, and forgiveness. This sentiment resonates deeply with her, as she believes in the importance of emotional connections, both in life and in music.
Her childhood memories are filled with summers spent in Cyprus, surrounded by family and the sea. “I’ve never had a summer that wasn’t spent in Cyprus,” she recalls fondly, highlighting the long evenings that contributed to her happiest moments. These experiences have undoubtedly influenced her music, which is rich with emotional depth and cultural references.
In her creative journey, Olga takes pride in building her music career on her own terms. “Every song I’ve released represents years of hard work, resilience, and believing in myself,” she explains. Releasing her debut EP independently is a milestone she cherishes, showcasing her dedication to her craft.
Olga also draws inspiration from cinematic moments, particularly the ending of *La La Land*. “It reminds me that some people change your life forever, even if they’re not meant to stay in it,” she reflects, a sentiment that echoes her own experiences in the music industry.
When it comes to her aspirations, Olga expresses a desire to connect with the legendary Greek composer Mikis Theodorakis. “His music wasn’t just beautiful; it became intertwined with Greece’s history and resilience,” she says, emphasizing her interest in understanding how music can inspire social and political change.
Her connection to her Greek heritage extends beyond music. If given the chance to time travel, she would visit Ancient Greece, eager to witness how music, theatre, and storytelling were experienced thousands of years ago. This deep-rooted connection to her culture plays a significant role in her artistic expression.
As an artist, Olga acknowledges her greatest fear: living a life filled with “what ifs.” “I’d rather fail trying than wonder what could have happened,” she asserts, embodying a fearless approach to her career. She encourages her younger self to embrace uncertainty, stating, “Stop trying to have everything figured out. Trust yourself, take the leap, and don’t waste energy trying to fit into places you were never meant to belong.”
In relationships, Olga values honesty and effort, believing that a successful partnership requires commitment from both individuals. “A relationship only works if both people are willing to show up and put in the work,” she emphasizes.
With her debut EP and ongoing projects, Olga Prepis is poised to make a significant impact in the music industry. Her dedication to her craft, connection to her heritage, and commitment to authenticity resonate deeply with her audience, making her an artist to watch in the coming years. As she continues to create and collaborate, Olga remains grounded in her values, driven by a passion for music that reflects her journey and experiences.