LIZZY DONZIS TALKS THE WRONG GUYS
"Helped me find more love for myself"
Daniel John
What is the story of, and behind, 'The Wrong Guys'?
I started writing 'The Wrong Guys' during a time when I kept falling for people who weren’t the right fit for me. With those relationships, the more I leaned in, the more they pulled away! It felt really unhealthy. And, I eventually realized that if someone can’t accept and embrace your love, they’re usually not the right person for you.
Stepping away from trying to please everyone and not basing your energy on what you get back from other people has been a re-curring theme in your songwriting. Has learning not to base your self-worth or goals on others been something you have dealt with?
It’s taken me years to learn how to find validation and self-worth from within rather than from external sources. I used to put a lot of pressure on what other people thought of me, and I believed happiness came from achievement, and once I removed some of that pressure and started doing things for myself, I found so much more joy. When I began acting from a place of kindness and gratitude, I felt much more at peace. Being true to yourself and following your instincts instead of what the world tells you is one of the biggest things that’s helped me find more love for myself and others.
Is writing something that really helps you work through things?
Absolutely. Songwriting has been therapy for me since I was seven years old. I was diagnosed with ADHD and an anxiety disorder at a very young age, and everyday-tasks often felt difficult. Music was the first thing that made me feel like I was good at something. Creating melodies and putting words together instantly put my mind at ease, and it became an incredible tool for me. I’ve been able to channel a lot of my obsessive thoughts into my writing, and that’s been true for the past fifteen-plus years.
How early did the passion for singing and songwriting start out?
I have videos of myself singing and playing piano at age three. I don’t think I started truly writing songs until I was around eight years old, though.
Are there any instruments you prefer when crafting your songs?
I started playing piano at age seven, and it’s still my favorite way to write. I go to the piano, sit down, turn on voice memos and just see what happens.
You ended last year on stage at Mercury Lounge in New York. You always look like you’re having like the best time when you perform. Are you?
(Laughs) That’s a bit of a loaded question. Playing any show is an absolute gift, but at this stage I am still a little hyper-aware of everyone in the audience. I think as venues get bigger, I’ll be able to fully lose myself in the performance. It’s still surreal to see people genuinely resonating with the music and having fun at my shows. I’m working really hard to give everyone a great experience while also deeply connecting to the songs. There is nothing better than walking offstage knowing I gave it my all. Performing is something I need to do, it’s always been in my blood, and I’m excited to get to the point where I can play two hundred shows a year, keep improving, and really lock in.
What is the vibe for you this year?
The vibe is making lots of songs. I’ve been in the studio working hard on this next batch and really taking my time with the work. I’m training my voice, my dance skills, my piano, everything it takes to be a full-time artist. I’m planning another show on March 7 at the Whisky a Go Go and I am also in pre-production for my next music video. I was scared to start releasing music, because I knew that once I jumped in, there was no going back. The currents are high, but I’m swimming with everything I have, and I can not wait to see where it all goes.
