Genia Chats About New Single ‘Crush’

Rising singer/songwriter Genia just dropped a new song that you’re bound to fall in love with! Just in time for Valentine’s Day, “Crush” describes the rush of emotions one feels when thinking about a missed connection – and even trying to track them down. If you’re someone who still thinks from time to time about some amazing vibes shared with a stranger that you’ve only had the privilege of meeting once, this is a song especially for you.

Genia is a 23-year-old artist with a passion as fierce as a flame. Growing up in California’s High Desert town of Victorville, Genia found music to be a form of therapy and escape. As a kid, she really enjoyed watching Purple Rain, citing Prince to be a huge inspiration for her artistic ambitions.

When the pandemic hit, Genia had been working at Walmart and studying to be a nurse. She ended up quitting, and pivoting her focus towards making music. In November 2020, she shared her rendition of Deborah Cox’s “Nobody’s Supposed to Be Here” on TikTok, and was met with tons of praise. It was officially time for Genia to lock in, fine-tune her vocals, get to writing, and share her talents with the world like never before.

Here’s some thoughts from Genia herself about her latest single “Crush” and her blossoming career!

What are some of the most important things listeners should keep in mind about you (as an artist) while they listen to your music?

I want my listeners to keep in mind that I’m always going to try and push the boundaries, especially in my music. I kinda don’t even want to say try because I feel like I am doing it. Authenticity and staying true to who I am, regardless of how the outside world feels, regardless of the boxes I’ve felt I’ve been put in over the years. Me being genuine with every song I create and not allowing outside influence is the most important part of who I am as an artist and what my music embodies. So when you listen, know you’re hearing ME! Not some fabricated version of me. I can’t please everyone.. I learned that the hard way. So when I put something out me loving it is enough. The right people will come & love it with me. 

I’ve read that you were a huge fan of Prince when you were younger, and his music served as a huge inspiration for you to launch your career. Are there any other artists you’re currently looking up to for inspiration?

Honestly, I still bump the “Purple Rain” album daily & continue to be inspired by it. But I’d say my other inspirations at the moment include Rihanna (duh, LOL), Doja Cat, Beyoncé, Billie Eilish, Doechii , Chappell Roan and Drake. There are so many more , but my mind damn near goes blank with questions like this, haha. Also, I’ve been listening to a lot of Fleetwood Mac and Lenny Kravitz lately—just vibing with them these days.

What has been the most exciting moment of your career so far?

Ugh, the most exciting moment of my career? My new release, “CRUSH”! I feel like I really tapped into something special while creating this record. I just know so much is coming after this release.

Can you share the story of how “Crush” came together?

Honestly, “Crush” was created by accident. When I walked into the studio, I had a specific idea of what I wanted to do, until one of my fave writers, Savannah Jada, and I started talking about how much it sucks when you see someone FINE, but you don’t get their name, number… anything and the odds of you ever seeing them again are slim. (P.S. In my case, this actually happened when I was in London. So when I was on the plane back to the U.S., I was like, “Damn, I’m never seeing that guy again!” LOL.) Olmo, our producer, started playing these beautiful, nostalgic chords, and immediately the melody came to me. Savannah and I began creating the story piece by piece. It was one of those things that just came together seamlessly.

What are some of your goals as an artist for 2025? 

Wow, I love this question! First and foremost, tour. I haven’t had the chance to actually tour, like, ever, and I really want to see my supporters in person! Plus, I LOVE the stage. Social media is, you know… social media, LOL, ( love and hate that shit ) – but nothing beats the real thing. Secondly, I would love to see my first song enter the Billboard Hot 100. That would be such a special moment, and I’d probably never shut up about it, LOL. ( p.s : I promised my mom once that happens we are going to Johnny carinos to celebrate. Our lil tradition lol ) Third, I want to wrap up my project! Right now, I’m still in the building stages and trying to continue to grow my audience ! which is why I’ve mainly been releasing singles, but I’m working on my album in the background, just waiting for the world to be ready.

Listen to “Crush” below on Spotify, and keep up with Genia on Instagram and TikTok @geniawashere!