10 Questions For R&B Singer Telana

Telana Lynum is only 17 but already has an EP, signature style, and celebrity rep under her belt. The singer released Aether in 2014, and is in the process of writing new music to be released this year. The Los Angeles native is often profiled for her friendship with Kylie Jenner, but is an artist and soon-to-be icon in her own right. Here, she discusses Dr. Seuss as inspiration, drinking Red Bull in the studio, and how she relates to the music festival, Tomorrowland.  

Telana - Bukunmi Grace - Galore Mag

Wildfox Sunglasses, Dolls Kill Robe, Cantiq LA Bralette

1. How do you mentally prepare for a performance?

I write in my journal the way I want it to go, and throughout the day, I put emphasis on my heart. Because for me, the main priority is to connect with people through my performance.

2. Who are artists or designers who have inspired you?

I’m inspired by Dr. Seuss, Salvador Dali, and Andy Warhol. My current favorite designer is my god sister.

3. Day worker or night worker? Why?

Whenever I’m awake, but especially weird hours.

4. How do you get inspired to create work?

I go into nature or museums. I like going somewhere stimulating.

5. Are you always proud of the work you make?

Well, I made it, so that makes me proud. Not everything is going to be a hit, but I’m happy to show it to people. That makes me proud.

6. What are some of the physical and emotional tolls of your work?

I like working weird hours, so I feel like I’m hanging on a thread. It gives me adrenaline. I’m normally healthy when it comes to everyday nutrition, but when I’m in the studio, I don’t care as much. I’ll drink multiple cans of Red Bull just to stay awake.

The emotional toll has more to do with reopening old wounds. Some of my music is made to get over things, and when the purpose is fulfilled, it’s rewarding. But when I’m performing, I have to feel it again, even when I don’t want to.

7. What are your views on collaboration?

I love collaborating. I like doing pretty things with female energy and making music with male energy.

8. If you were a music festival, which one would you be?

Probably Tomorrowland.

9. What new music are you excited for at the moment?

Who isn’t excited for Frank Ocean’s new music? But I don’t want to put too much pressure on his project. Really, I’m excited for my new music.

10. What’s your go-to sad song? Happy song?

When I’m frustrated, I listen to “Springtime Again” by Sun Ra. My happy song is “Let Me Be Your Angel” by Stacy Lattisaw.

Telana - Bukunmi Grace - Galore Mag

Wildfox Sunglasses, Dolls Kill Robe, Cantiq LA Bralette

Telana - Bukunmi Grace - Galore Mag

Wildfox Sunglasses, Dolls Kill Robe, Cantiq LA Bralette, Puma Shoes

Telana - Bukunmi Grace - Galore Mag

Wildfox Sunglasses, Dolls Kill Robe, Cantiq LA Bralette, Puma Shoes

Telana - Bukunmi Grace - Galore Mag

Wildfox Sunglasses, Dolls Kill Robe, Cantiq LA Bralette, Puma Shoes

Telana - Bukunmi Grace - Galore Mag

Glitter Death Jacket and Skirt
Telana - Bukunmi Grace - Galore Mag
PRB PR Jacket and SJO Jewelry

Photographed by Bukunmi Grace

Styled by Gleveen McBeth

Styling Assistance by Zoe McBeth

Makeup by Michelle Rodriguez

Hair by Breanna Reynolds


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