i-Files: April Ivy

In the days since COVID-19 has dominated our screens, and mandatory self-isolation is being enforced globally, things can seem pretty bleak. With the recent announcement from Prime Minister, Boris Johnson effectively placing the UK into a lockdown, all non-essential travel has been restricted, and only urgent outings (including to buy food, medicine and exercise once a day) are permitted. This change – which is set to last for 3 weeks, and then will be reviewed - has been imposed as a way of ensuring social distancing measures used to quell the spread of the outbreak. EQUATE took this time to catch up with our favourite artists and creatives for our ‘Isolation Files’ to see what they are doing to keep their spirits up in this time, and bring some positivity to our readers.

April Ivy (or Mariana Gonçalves to friends and family), is a critically acclaimed singer, songwriter, and all round vocal powerhouse. The 20-year old, born and raised in Portugal, released her first single “Be Ok” in February 2016 as an independent artist, and has rocked the very ground under our feet since. We caught up with her to find out what she’s doing in this time when the world is under so much uncertainty.

EQ: What are you doing to stay busy right now, April?

AI: I’ve been using this time at home to song write and prepare my upcoming releases, as well as cooking, reading, doing exercise and playing call of duty!

EQ: What are the top three tracks on your playlist at the moment

AI: B.S. (feat. H.E.R.), This City - Sam Fischer, John Mayer - In Your Atmosphere (Live)

EQ:…anything in particular you can’t take of repeat?

AI: Anything from John Mayer to be fair!

EQ: What would you recommend we all tune into on Netflix/Amazon Prime?

AI: “Designated Survivor”, “The Crown”, “Don’t Fuck With Cats”

YouTube/Netflix

EQ: With so much content out there right now across socials, is there anything that has stood out to you that you can share?

AI: I’m currently very into live concerts , I’ve done 2 myself and have been loving this initiative of artists all across the world!

EQ: What’s a positive mantra that’s getting you through this time?

AI: Fear has two meanings: Fear has two meanings - “Forget Everything and Run”, or “Face Everything and Rise”. The choice is yours!

EQ: With all the spare time, how are you tapping into your creativity?

AI: I’ve been using this time to improve my guitar playing as well as songwriting! I’m currently in my ‘creative bubble’ and being very productive which is great!

EQ: First place you’ll head to when everyone comes out of isolation?

AI: Studiooo, for sure!

EQ: What can we look forward to hearing from you in the later in the year? Any exciting projects we should be looking out for?

AI: I’m releasing my next single April 3rd , with an insane music video. It’s the best song I’ve ever made, in my opinion. So definitely keep an eye out for this one!

YouTube/April Ivy

Stream ‘Can’t Fight This Feeling’- HERE

Keep up with April Ivy on socials:

Instagram: @aprilivymusic

Twitter: @aprilivymusic

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For advice or information on the Covid-19 Virus, we recommend that you thoroughly read the NHS’s Corona Virus Advice page.

If you or anyone you know are feeling unwell, and suspect you may have been in contact with an infected individual, then please (as instructed) self-isolate immediately, stay away from vulnerable persons, and call your local 111 service for further advice.

Please remember to wash your hands regularly, avoid touching your face with unwashed hands, think about others, and stay safe in this period! ❤️

Love, Team EQUATE.