Q&A: Donna Lewis' Journey Through "Corridors" and Beyond
IN THE LUMINOUS TAPESTRY OF “CORRIDORS” - Donna Lewis unfolds a deeply personal narrative, derived from her poignant battle with breast cancer. Donna Lewis unveils the unexpected genesis of "Corridors," born from the compassionate hands of a nurse named Eileen.
These corridors guide listeners through the labyrinth of her emotional landscape during her treatment at Memorial Sloan Kettering. The collaboration with Holmes Ives, sparked by a remix request, evolved into a harmonious synergy. Lewis shares how his mesmerizing electronic soundscapes served as the backdrop to her lyrical outpouring. Rooms With A View became a sonic journal, with each track representing a chapter of her tumultuous journey—a journey that unexpectedly unfolded into an album.
Beyond the music, Donna Lewis emerges as a beacon of hope, set to become an ambassador for Making Strides Against Breast Cancer. Her intentions extend beyond melodies; she seeks to raise awareness through her art, performing at events that support survivors and research. After 27 years of the release of her iconic hit "I Love You, Always Forever" looms, Donna Lewis contemplates her musical evolution, driven by a desire to craft beautiful art and take life at her own pace.
Read below to hear more about the making of “Corridors” and what the rest of the year has in store for Donna Lewis.
LUNA: "Corridors" is a deeply personal song for you, inspired by your experience with breast cancer and the compassionate care you received. How did the process of turning such a challenging time into music impact you personally and artistically?
DONNA: The writing and creative process became my therapy during treatment. Cancer can be a little overwhelming at times and can take over your life. My music was a lifeline. Singing and recording these songs made me feel like nothing was wrong. Holmes's instrumental tracks inspired me. I love the electronic musical direction this time and it’s one of the most personal albums I’ve ever written.
LUNA: Your lyrics for "Corridors" express gratitude to the nurses who played a significant role in your journey. Can you share more about the impact of these healthcare professionals on your experience and why you chose to highlight them in your music?
DONNA: I never really meant to write about my breast cancer journey but as I was listening to some of these instrumental tracks by Holmes I had my journals open and was reading about requesting Eileen with the gentle hands to take my blood and that’s how Corridors began. Even though I talk about Eileen I did feel a strong connection with certain nurses and doctors. They guided me when I needed guidance at particular times. Almost like having a spirit guide with me. To be honest from the moment I walked in through the door at Memorial Sloan Kettering everyone was so kind. Kindness is everything when you’re going through cancer and I wanted to highlight these amazing humans.
LUNA: The upcoming album, 'Rooms With A View,' is a collaboration with electronic artist and producer Holmes Ives. How did this collaboration come about, and how did the partnership influence the overall sound and direction of the album?
DONNA: Holmes reached out to me through Six Degrees Records asking if he could remix one of my acoustic songs’ I told you so’. I had recorded a piano / vocal EP during lockdown. I absolutely loved what he did!
LUNA: During my cancer treatment (Holmes didn’t know what I was going through at the time) He sent me a bunch of instrumental tracks to see if they inspired me to write and collaborate. I ended up recording melodies immediately to some of them as they were so cool. The Messenger was the first one I was drawn to as it had a darkness to it and although I didn’t plan to write about my personal story, the pages from my journal flooded out into the music. I loved Holmes’s stunning electronic soundscapes! They inspired me and I would record my vocals at home, send him my final stems and then he would create the magic. We would send each other new versions back and forth until we both felt the song was done! We are both perfectionists with our work!
LUNA: This album is not just a collection of songs; it's a documentation of your year-long journey through breast cancer. How did you approach translating such a profound and personal experience into a musical narrative?
DONNA: It just flooded out really! Because I kept a journal throughout and expressed how I felt every day it really wasn’t difficult to write about it through music. It seemed so natural at the time picking the right instrumental tracks of Holmes that I connected to.
LUNA: Having found solace in music during challenging times, do you see 'Rooms With A View' as a transformative album for both you and your listeners?
DONNA: Yes! Definitely for me and I hope for others too. Music has this amazing power of bringing people together and giving us an experience of being less alone, so If my story can help anyone going through a dark tunnel then it makes me happy.
LUNA: The collaboration with Making Strides Against Breast Cancer as an ambassador is a powerful way to channel your experience into advocacy. How do you envision using your platform to raise awareness and support for breast cancer survivors and research?
DONNA: I hope I can raise awareness through my music. I will be performing at certain events to support breast cancer survivors and research.
LUNA: As you reflect on the 25th anniversary of your breakthrough hit "I Love You, Always Forever," how do you see your musical journey evolving, especially considering the unique challenges and triumphs of the past few years?
DONNA: I just want to make beautiful art through music. I feel I’ve always been a diverse writer even though many people only know of me from’ I love you always forever’. I have so many other projects I want to complete but I’ve learnt to take my time and live my life and just do the things that I love.
LUNA: What intentions do you have for the rest of the year?
DONNA: I’m working on a short film with an amazing female director who also went through breast cancer herself. Filming starts soon!
