We are thrilled to introduce Lara Tahm, a German music producer and vocalist making waves with her debut single ‘Shine,’ released on June 21st. Recorded at the University of Helsinki Music Research Laboratory, ‘Shine’ is a beaming indie-pop track that emerged from the dark winter days in Helsinki, exuding the energy and light of an early summer morning. With shimmering chimes, heartfelt citar, and ethereal background voices, the song captures an optimistic path towards happiness and liberation.
Lara, who has a profound connection to both Estonia and Finland, derived her stage name ‘Tahm’ from the Estonian word for ‘soot,’ reflecting her inclination to experiment with music and her deep ties to these countries. Currently based in Munich, Lara is not only a talented musician but also a dedicated musicology student. The single ‘Shine’ has been expertly mixed and mastered by José Diogo Neves, with the artwork captured by Finnish photographer Emma Reijonen.
In this exclusive interview, Lara opens up about her inspirations, creative process, and journey in the music industry. From her early years learning the violin to her experiences in the Estonian music scene, Lara’s story is one of passion, resilience, and artistic growth. Join us as we delve into the mind of this emerging artist and discover the magic behind her music.
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Is there a story behind your stage name?
My stage name is Lara Tahm. Tahm is an Estonian word which means „soot“. The surname brings out a mysterious, smoky essence and reflects my urge to experiment with music. At the same time my deep connection with Estonia is vibrant in this word.
Where do you find inspiration and describe your creative process.
My songs are written quite in the moment. I sit in front of the computer and start writing what comes out of my head without any judgement. Often I start with a synth or loop sound that I particularly like and then go from there. Sometimes there are certain memories which I want to encapsulate into a song.
What was the role of music in the early years of your life?
As a child I learned to play the violin. It is an instrument which accompanied me for the next ten years. Learning this instrument was for me an introduction to classical music. I grew up with the Eurovision Song Contest and artists like Miley Cyrus, Aly & AJ and Lady Gaga.
Who inspired you to be a part of the music industry?
Conversing with a couple of people from the Estonian music scene like I Wear* Experiment (indierock band), Iiris Vesik (front singer of dream-pop band Night Tapes) and Britt Randma (music manager) influenced and encouraged me to go my path as an artist in the industry. I am forever grateful for these conversations because they opened the doors to a world that was before unimaginable to enter for me.
How did you learn to sing/write/to play?
I already had a musical background with playing the violin. My musicology studies encouraged an analytical view on music which has been incredibly helpful for learning music production. In Tallinn I received invaluable singing lessons which enabled me to find my own voice in pop music as an artist.
What was the first concert that you ever went to and who did you see perform?
In 2014 I saw Florence & The Machine at the Olympia Stadium in Munich. It was a gorgeous experience to witness Florence’s love and glory. To me it was special to see her collaborate with female trumpet players.
How would you describe your music?
My music is a blend of indie- and electro-pop. Every song tells a different story and is genre-wise different. But in the end the song has been written with the same ink and belongs to me. I like to use harmonies and loop vocal phases as a background melody. Recently, I also started using more the violin in my songs.
What is your main inspiration?
When I work on songs the inspiration I draw from is really different and depends on what the song needs in the moment. Up until today this includes artists like Selah Sue, I Wear* Experiment, Bilderbuch, An-Marlen, Björk and CAIVA.
What musician do you admire most and why?
At most I admire Night Tapes and Kitty Florentine for their work ethic, the boundless courage to perform live on stage. Iiris and Kitty are both bold women who don’t fear to show themselves on stage. Their stage presence is unforgettable and gripping at the same time. Iiris has this beautiful, ethereal voice which is light like a feather. Kitty Florentine has a fairy-like voice that gets right to my heart and touches me every time I see her live.
Did your style evolve since the beginning of your career?
I am very much evolving as a songwriter and producer with every song. My arrangements are getting more complex and playful since I started 6 years ago. I’ve become more detailed and precise in my productions.
Who do you see as your main competitor?
I do not see artist or music itself as a competition. Music is a human expression which should be fully celebrated.
What are your interests outside of music?
Outside of music I like to learn languages. Besides Estonian and Finnish I am currently learning Swedish.
If it wasn’t a music career, what would you be doing?
My musicology studies enable me to work in the culture sector in general. Working in this field as an event manager, PR specialist or curator would be an alternative besides being a music producer.
What is the biggest problem you have encountered in the journey of music?
Recently I had a creators’ bloc where I felt completely stuck with making new music. In these moments I find it best to still create something everyday and be kinder to myself. It takes time to create beauty and sometimes it is better to create slowly and be very patient with yourself.
If you could change one thing in the music industry, what would it be?
Changing the revenue model of streaming platforms to a fair share: Indie artists should get more revenue than they get right now. A Gema study in 2022 came to the result that the share of the membership is 1,60 Euros for music creators. It’s necessary to see that for each membership music creators receive more money and that songwriters are being paid equally than music producers.
Why did you choose this as the title of this project?
‘Shine’ is the most optimistic song I wrote during the winter in Helsinki. I chose this title to encourage listeners to appreciate their imperfections and their beauty.
What are your plans for the coming months?
Currently I am working on a song with Estonian music producer Steven Saagpakk and Estonian rapper Taavi Sink for the upcoming Eesti Laul competition which is the Estonian preselection for the Eurovision Song Contest. Hopefully we’ll get selected as an act. Fingers crossed!
What message would you like to give to your fans?
I am thankful that you all take the time to listen to my songs. I am excited about the journey and can’t wait to share more music!
