Artist Spotlight :: Reva K

Bio

Pop/rock artist Reva K has never been far from a guitar since 2002. She focused her efforts on songwriting with electric guitar in 2006 and never looked back. After working with a few producers in her hometown of Chicago and struggling to find her sound, she enrolled in a production course founded by a Grammy-nominated EDM and pop producer. Her self-produced, previously released singles garnered high praise from judges at a Nashville songwriting competition as well as the attention of a Nashville-based producer.

In 2021, Reva K released her acoustic-pop single "California" and her lively pop-rock anthem "State of Mind" to critical acclaim. The latter found its way onto notable streaming playlists and FM radio stations worldwide. She was featured on various music blogs and notable podcasts such as Women of Substance and SongTown on Songwriting. Reva K is also featured in the Summer 2022 print and digital editions of Guitar Girl Magazine.

After working through a few dozen demos, Reva K emerged with an eclectic and somewhat organic indie-pop EP in January 2023 entitled Pineapple Ridge. While in the process of completing her subsequent single — a rootsy, modern, alt-pop version of Sheryl Crow's 1993 classic "Strong Enough"— Reva K's producer rebuilt his hybrid mixing setup. Feeding the EP mixes through this same setup realized a bigger, smoother, more dynamic sound that shed an entirely new light on the original compositions. Analog mastering further enhanced the updated mixes. Pineapple Ridge (2023 Remaster) was released on August 18, 2023.

What/Who inspired you to pick up your instrument?

I was about six years old when I was browsing through a toy store with my grandma, and a little plastic, battery-powered guitar caught my eye. As I watched it ride down the conveyor belt at the checkout line, I was certain I was going to trade that toy for a real guitar someday.

What piece of musical advice would you give yourself if you could go back in time to the beginning of your musical journey?

I'd tell myself to be patient and focus on what I can control. Establishing a solid music career takes time, and many shortcuts can lead to trap doors and fleeting success. In walking the long road, I've faced many obstacles and moments of doubt in my journey, but these experiences have all prepared me to take full advantage of every opportunity that comes my way.

What keeps you excited about playing?

Feeling the inspiration hit for a song, crafting an arrangement that works flawlessly, and hearing the sentiments of listeners who connect with my music all over the world: these experiences drive me to elevate my craft, refine my sound, and amplify my reach every day.

Desert Island 3 pedal pedalboard (not including tuner)

One of my favorite pedals at the moment is TI:ME by Crazy Tube Circuits. In addition to the delay effect, it adds amazing warmth and color to my guitar tone. I'd also bring the Pretty Bird Woman chorus pedal from NativeAudio. It's simple to use with a lush, beautiful sound. I'm still working on putting together the pedalboard of my dreams, but I imagine I'd like to have a nice reverb pedal along with the TI:ME and Pretty Bird Woman on a desert island.

When you find yourself in a musical rut, what techniques do you use to break out of it?

A musical rut can only exist if I allow myself to believe I'm in one. If I find I'm beginning to feel stuck, it's usually because I'm overthinking and putting too much pressure on the outcome of my ideas. When I let go of any personal judgment or speculations about how the world might perceive my creations, the ideas come fast. I also sometimes like to jump around from instrument to instrument during writing sessions to help keep the inspiration flowing. Picking up different guitars, singing over a beat, or starting with a synth are all ways I can maintain a fresh perspective.

Who is your favorite artist/band today? And who was your favorite artist/band ten years ago?

A couple of artists I currently enjoy are Haim and Aly & AJ. Ten years ago, when I was extremely focused on honing my skills as a songwriter, I was influenced by country artists like Kacey Musgraves and Keith Urban, along with pop punk bands like All Time Low. Great songwriting is a common thread in all my favorite music. I love strong, unforgettable melodies so I often find myself going back to 80s and 90s classics as well.

When you find yourself in a music store - what is your go-to riff when test drive gear?

The pentatonic scale was one of the first scales I learned in my guitar lessons as a kid. I used to practice it so much to see how fast I could play it — now my fingers automatically gravitate to pentatonic when I'm mindlessly playing around on the fretboard.

What is your most prized/cherished piece of gear? And why?

I might be tempted to say it's my recently purchased Martin SC-13E, especially because I've had an extremely difficult time finding an acoustic guitar I love. It's a unique guitar designed for electric players, and it's really brought back the joy in my acoustic playing after years. My final answer, though, would be my special edition Fender Telecaster. I've been playing a Gibson Les Paul and Fender Strat for a while, and the Tele tone feels like the best of both worlds. Additionally, the flame maple top and satin finish on the back of the neck are a really nice touch.

What is the next big musical purchase you're hoping to save for?

As I mentioned earlier, I'd like to have a nice pedalboard for myself. I'm still waiting to get my hands on a few more pedals to complete my collection!

Gear Breakdown

I play a Fender Strat and Tele and a Gibson Les Paul going into an Orange Rocker 15. I also have a small Fender Frontman which functions mainly as my practice amp but can come in handy once in a while during recording sessions when the Rocker 15 gets a bit too overpowering. In between the guitar and the amp, I have my Sonic Research Turbo Tuner, followed by any pedals which might suit the needs of the particular song being performed or recorded at the time.

I use a Rattlesnake instrument cable, and I stick with the bare cables. Though they lack the colorful personality of the weaves, I like the extra flexibility. I also use Rattlesnake flex patch cables to connect my pedals.

Bands / Projects

Listen on Spotify

Social Links

Want to be featured as an Artist Spotlight?

Do you have to be a famous musician to be featured? No. Do you have to be a professional musician to be featured? No. Do you have passion about playing and gear -- oh and a verified Rattlesnake Cable Company cable user. Yes!

All you need to do is contact us and we'll direct you to our submission form. If your submission is approved, it will be in the queue to be showcased!