[Interview] Get to Know the Modern Voice of Pop-Punk, Hope Vista

Pop-punk fans have desperately been in search for an artist that will give the genre a resurgence since its golden era in the early 2000s, with artists like Avril Lavigne and Blink-182. Twenty- two-year-old Hope Vista is proving to be the perfect artist to shake up the genre by beginning to earn her title as the modern queen of pop-punk.

In the span of five songs, Hope’s recently released EP, Prevail, packs a punch with its vigorous guitar riffs, lyrics that prove to be both catchy and bold, and powerhouse vocals. The track, “I Prevail” featuring Nick Thompson, sets the mood for the EP, with listeners witnessing Hope’s determination to defeat anything or anyone that stands in her way. Prevail offers a refreshing contrast of songs that offer feelings of both determination, like in the track “Dominance” and vulnerability, which is expressed in “Half Past Fine”striking an even balance.

The fierceness that Hope exudes isn’t limited to her music, but extends to her fashion, music videos, and platform on social media. Overall, Hope Vista is an artist that can’t be missed and will continue to prove that in 2016.

I got the chance to chat with Hope about the inspiration behind her music, the inside scoop about Prevail, and a hint at what’s in store for her in 2016.

Introduce yourself to our readers! Who or what initially sparked your interest in pursuing a career in music? When did you get your start in music?

Hi! I’m Hope! My dad sparked that initial interest, he was a classical jazz guitarist. I knew I wanted to be a musician at 3, I was running around performing little concerts for my grandparents when I was so small. It’s always been the number one thing for me.

What ultimately is the message you want listeners to take away after listening to your recently released EP, Prevail? I know each song is like your child, but what is your favorite song from Prevail and why?

The lyric “I prevail in the long run” is probably what I want people to take away from the EP, if anything. That gave me the whole “prevail” idea, and I think it carries around a pretty important message. I think “Dominance” is probably my favorite, I spent months alone just writing that song to try and piece together the perfect track from start to finish. “I Prevail” is a favorite, too.

How would you describe your sound? What artists have had the biggest influence on your style?

It’s got both alt. rock and pop punk influences, it’s heavily guitar driven with some mainstream hooks. I wanted to make it both infectious and have a Warped Tour kind of alternative style.

What lies ahead for you as 2015 comes to close and 2016 approaches? Where can our readers find more from you?

I’m on all social media sites under the same username, @hopevista. 2016 is going to be interesting. I can’t really talk about what I’m doing yet, not until January at some point, but there will be a good amount of change to the direction of my career! Super stoked for it.

Prevail is available now here.

Katelyn A. Howard

Katelyn's studies journalism at the University of Oklahoma and has contributed to local publications.

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