On Friday August 9th 2024, the cozy confines of The Handlebar in Kensington Market in Toronto, Ontario were graced with the ethereal sounds of Carolina Lopez. The young musician, known for her unique and angelic voice, captivated an audience that ranged from her Humber College peers to local teens and curious bar-goers. Carolina’s performance was more than just a showcase of her vocal talent; it was an emotional journey for everyone present. Her powerful lyrics, delivered with a raw sincerity, made the audience feel every emotion she poured into her songs. The performance was a testament to Carolina’s ability to create an intimate atmosphere while drawing in listeners with her delicate yet powerful vocals.
The crowd, a mix of familiar faces and new fans, hung on to every note, clearly entranced by the authenticity and emotion in her music. As the evening unfolded, it became evident that Carolina Lopez is an artist on the rise, with her music touching the hearts of all who were lucky enough to be there. I had the incredible opportunity to interview Carolina before the show, delving into her story and gaining insights into her music with a five-question interview which you can read just below: 
Question and Answer:
Musik Mirage: When did you start playing guitar and singing?
Carolina Lopez: I started singing as a kid—singing songs by Amy Winehouse and Whitney Houston. I wasn’t very good, but people would compliment me, so I guess I had some skill. I started playing guitar in February 2020 during COVID, so it’s been four years. During that time, I discovered my love for Phoebe Bridgers. Her guitar playing was complicated but simple enough for me to learn, especially her fingerpicking style, which I still use now. The pandemic was a rough time, but it allowed me to build up my basic guitar skills. Before that, I had always played piano because I had a keyboard growing up and it was more accessible. Only recently have I started to really feel comfortable with the guitar. I remember the first time I played a show with my own music—I felt so out of my depth. I couldn’t believe I was singing and playing guitar at the same time because it took so much concentration.
Musik Mirage: How was your experience at Humber College for jazz, and what’s the most valuable thing you took away from it?
Carolina Lopez: It was pretty cool! In my fourth year, I recorded an EP, which is coming out on September 27th. The project was awesome because it gave us hands-on experience recording music without it being an expense or risk, since it came from an educational perspective. Looking back, I learned a lot and met some amazing people. The most valuable thing I took away was realizing that music has to be intentional, no matter where it’s coming from. I noticed a lot of people slacking off, relying on their talent without putting in the work. For me, it’s not just about effort; it’s about creating with purpose.
Musik Mirage: What’s your favourite venue in Toronto?
Carolina Lopez: The Burdock! The room there sounds beautiful because it’s not a loud bar where people just come for drinks. It has a more intimate vibe, and it lets people who are there for the music actually enjoy it. People don’t talk over each other, so the audience really feels like part of the show. I’ll be playing there on September 20th—be there or be square!
Musik Mirage: Do you have any advice for young musicians in Toronto who want to start playing live music?
Carolina Lopez: The first thing I would say is to go to as many live shows as you can, even if you’re under 19—there are many shows in Toronto that are all-ages if you’re under 19, so it’s easy to still go out and explore the scene. Go to shows early and watch bands do their thing, and if there is a band that really inspires you, reach out to them and ask questions that you might think are dumb and just jump in. I think it’s very important to do that. At the same time, I also think that there is a certain amount of pressure when you’re on stage, and therefore the ultimate best way to get out of your head and be better at your craft is to actually just do it. I think that a lot of people think they have to be at a certain level in order to perform live, but I think that comes with time. It’s nice to grow with your music—it’s like your baby and you have to nurture it.
Musik Mirage: Any other comments?
Carolina Lopez: In the long run, being authentic and kind will take you way further than having a huge ego. Especially as a young woman artist, I’ve noticed a lot of guys with big egos who aren’t trying to gate-keep, but they’re too blinded by their own arrogance to see your talent and what you bring to the table. It’s important to keep playing for yourself and focus on bettering your craft, because when you do that, it will resonate with others. 
For your viewing pleasure please enjoy the photo gallery showcasing the night’s performance at The Handlebar in Toronto linked in just below. Don’t forget to follow Carolina Lopez on Instagram at @guurlina for more updates on upcoming shows and new music. She’s also launched a Bandcamp for her new EP dropping on September 27th, so be sure to check that out!
Interview & Photos By Rachel Bass (@rachelbass_photography)
