Tiffany Majette, aka Orion Sun, opens Hold Space for Me with an uncertainty that’s palpable. It’s an uncertainty that resonates with me really closely; an uncertainty that’s etched itself into most of my relationships since lockdown. Spending so much time away from loved ones has weaved a lot of doubt into friendships that were otherwise close; it’s making my connections murky and my self-doubt stronger than ever. When Orion Sun sings “Looks like we back at the beginning / it’s like we haven’t moved at all / thought you’d catch me when I fall / looks like I’m wrong,” all of these feelings feel clear — encapsulated exactly, despite the fact that this record was written before the world took a wrong turn.

Hold Space for Me has taken good care of me throughout lockdown, so to flip the switch, I turned my inward focus outward. I wanted to find out how Orion Sun is taking care of herself during this time; how she’s been letting herself breathe and letting others in. We talked about writing projects, changing focus, and how she’s worked on transforming lately.

Slumber: Unbelievably, it’s nearly been a year since Hold Space for Me came out. This record has been such a comfort this past year; I’m sure everyone that’s heard it would agree. What was it like releasing such an intimate record during this time, in a world where everyone has had to stay apart?

Tiffany Majette: I don’t really think about it. In my head, I sort of moved onto the next thing even before putting it out into the world. I have this urge to create as much as possible before my time here is up.

Slumber: With the outside world out of our control, the responsibility of self-care has fallen on all of us; without loved ones nearby, it’s been hard to keep afloat. How have you been taking care and holding space for yourself?

Tiffany: This has always been a challenge for me. I try every day; some days are easier than others, but one transformative thing that has happened over the course of this time has been letting others into my mind and my troubles. I was relieved to have been met with no judgement, which feels really encouraging. I used to be afraid of being a burden, so music used to be the only place I could release. I’m happy I have options now.

Slumber: I know a lot of your touring plans were cancelled last year, in light of all that’s going on. Where in the world would you love to perform, once it’s possible again?

Tiffany: Madrid. I had so much fun when I was out there, I can’t wait to go again. I was even thinking of writing my next project out there, but one day!

Slumber: I saw on Instagram that you’ve been teaching yourself how to use new production tools and music tech – have you been doing much songwriting lately?  

Tiffany: Yes, always writing.

Slumber: Have you picked up any other new hobbies or habits while staying at home?

Tiffany: I have a therapist now, which has been working out really nicely for me.

Slumber: Your recent short film with Dr. Martens offered such an intimate insight into your own experiences during quarantine. Since lockdown, has your relationship with your at-home space changed? Has it impacted your creative headspace at all?  

Tiffany: In the early days of the pandemic, it was really challenging to even think about creating something. Whenever I experience moments like that, I take it as a sign to focus on other aspects of my life. I’ve found that doing so always helps with my art. All this to say, I have adapted, but I’m looking forward to the world opening up again.

Slumber: Watching the film, I noticed the record collection in your apartment. I’d love to know which albums you reach for most often. If you were going to pick two records – one to start your day and one to end the night – which two would you pick?

Tiffany: I’d start the day with Still Bill by Bill Withers and end the day with Man Alive! by King Krule. 

Slumber: When you were writing Hold Space for Me, did you find yourself influenced by anything outside of music? Maybe an image you couldn’t get out of your head, or a specific place you gravitated towards when writing the record?

Tiffany: I feel like I am mostly only ever inspired by things outside of music. The ratio being 80% outside, 20% music.

Slumber: Can we expect to see any of these influences in new music any time soon? What are you working on?

Tiffany: Yes! In my brain, I’m working on 3 projects. I’m focusing on an EP currently.

Slumber: Lastly, I wanted to ask this for anyone reading who’s planning on listening to your music right after reading: what’s the ideal setting for listening to Orion Sun? Feel free to be specific as you like. 

Tiffany: Listening works best anywhere in the physical realm, really, but I’d say if you find yourself needing to take a moment mentally – wherever you are physically will hopefully either melt away or enhance. Point is, it won’t matter where you are, just be open and let the music take you somewhere else.

Listen to Orion Sun’s latest record Hold Space for Me below: