Francesca Tarantino
Feed the Band
Feed the Band
francesca Tarantino
Patrick L.
Over the past five years, I’ve had the rare privilege of watching Francesca Tarantino grow, not just as an artist, but as a human. I’ve seen her transform her love for music into something bigger, something that feels less like a performance and more like purpose. In an industry that often pushes people to compromise who they are, Francesca has stood her ground, staying true to her heart, her values, and her music. Watching her do that has given me hope and made me feel that the future of music is in good hand.
Her song “Tragedy” is a perfect example of her courage and authenticity. Written from a place of real loss, it carries the weight of grief while offering connection and healing. That song reminded all of us that music is more than entertainment; it’s a way to speak what we can’t say ourselves. Seeing Francesca accept Song of the Year at the Josie Music Awards on the Grand Ole Opry stage was more than a milestone; it was proof that honesty, vulnerability, and heart still matter, even in this business.
What amazes me most about Francesca is how she brings that truth into everything she does. She has weathered the pressure to take easier paths, and she has emerged stronger, holding onto her values like I have never seen from any other artist. At her shows, you feel it instantly: the energy, the fire, but also the invitation to forget your worries for a night and just share in the music. Francesca’s music doesn’t just entertain, it connects, uplifts, and reminds people why they fell in love with music in the first place.
On a personal level, Francesca has been far more than a friend; she is family. We started our journeys in music around the same time, and over the years, we’ve challenged each other, inspired each other, and helped each other grow into better versions of ourselves. Her courage has pushed me to stay true, her joy has reminded me to find the fun in the journey, and her authenticity has shown me that it’s possible to succeed without losing yourself. Our paths have been intertwined, and I wouldn’t trade a single step of it.
For me, Francesca represents the very heart of what Southern Fellow is about. She reminds us that music at its best isn’t about fame or polish, it’s about honesty, community, and the courage to be vulnerable. With “Spider On The Wall” already adding a bluesy, raw edge to her catalog and an EP on the horizon, Francesca continues to grow into one of the most remarkable artists I’ve ever known.
"Hold on to Me" Francesca Tarantino
I’m excited to share my interview with rock artist Francesca Tarantino, so you can get to know the Francesca I know and love—the person behind the powerful music. In our conversation, she opens up about her journey, creativity, and the values that drive her. Plus, she inspired the bold, flavorful Rockin’ Carnitas recipe we’re sharing—give it a try and bring a little of her energy into your kitchen!
Your music feels both bold and vulnerable—what first drew you to pop/rock, and how did you find your sound within it?
I grew up in a classic rock household, with bands like Aerosmith, Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, and The Eagles constantly being played. Growing up with that playing, my ear grew a liking to the raw and authentic type of rock music. As I grew older, I became influenced by powerhouse female singers, like Ann Wilson from Heart, Hayley Williams from Paramore, and Kelly Clarkson. Over time I tweaked these sounds into something that was more me, more fun and powerful, and I guess that’s called pop/rock!
You’ve said storytelling is important in your songs. Can you walk us through a song of yours that’s the most personal, and what story you wanted listeners to take from it?
My song “Tragedy” is one of my most vulnerable songs because it depicts the story of my dog. When I went through the event of losing my dog, I was sad, lost, and confused. Through all of these emotions, I remembered I wasn’t alone, and other people go through this same thing and emotions. Maybe not with a dog, but with a person, or a thing. I hope people listen to “Tragedy” and remember they are not alone, and our emotions are real, and we shouldn’t push them away.
Every artist has a “pinch me” moment. What’s one milestone so far in your career where you thought, “Wow, this is happening”?
I would have to say having my song “Tragedy” being recognized as the Song of the Year. In 2024, I won a Josie Music Award for Song of the Year at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee. To be recognized for one of my most meaningful songs in Nashville, and to stand on that prestigious stage, and deliver an acceptance speech, was definitely a “pinch me” moment.
Collaboration often sparks creativity. If you could team up with any artist—living or not—who would it be and why?
Ah this is a great question, and so many great artists and songwriters come to mind, it’s really hard to choose just one. For the sake of this interview, and because I’m getting ready to go and see them, I’d have to say My Chemical Romance. I love their energy, their song writing, and their overall vibe. I love how they seem to have fun on stage, yet write about anything they want to write about. I love the freedom they have, and I think I would love to experience that with them.
When people come to a Francesco Tarantina show, what do you hope they walk away feeling?
I want people to walk away smiling after having a fun night at a Francesca Tarantino show. I hope people forget about their worries and escape for a little bit, so we can all share the love for music.
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When the spotlight isn’t on, what’s one thing about you most people wouldn’t expect?
I honestly feel I am such an open book, especially when it comes to social media. I show so many things that are behind the scenes, so I’m not sure if anything I say would be something people wouldn’t expect. Something I may not have shared is that I love old mystery shows, my favorites being “Murder She Wrote” and “Matlock”. Not something a typical 17-year-old girl would watch, haha.
Music can be an outlet. What emotions or themes do you find yourself always coming back to when you write?
I always find myself writing songs about things that really happen in my life, or in other people’s lives. These real-life experiences make great songs and make them more personal. Sometimes I like a song more just because I know I can relate to the lyrics, and sometimes we need that!
If your life right now were a movie, what would the title be, and who would play you?
I think a great title would be “A Girl and Her Guitar”. I have nooo idea who would play me lol. I don’t know enough about the movie world to name an actress, haha.
Touring and performing can be a whirlwind of activity. How do you stay grounded when life gets hectic?
Actually music haha! When I need a little time to decompress, I put on a song, and no matter what I play, I start to feel at peace. I am also surrounded by an amazing family and friends, so whenever I need a break, I always spend some time with them.
If your music were a recipe, what three ingredients would it have?
Guitar solos, relatability, and energy!
Say we’re throwing a Southern Fellow backyard BBQ and you’re in charge of one dish. What’s your go-to?
Homemade guacamole! I’ve been told I make the best guac, and it is a dish I always make when I have people over! Yummm!
try this inspired recipe!
Tell us about your latest release, “Spider on the Wall”.
Funny story, actually…
“Disguise” was set to be my next release. But one day I was folding laundry with my mom and saw a spider on the wall, and my mom said, “Oh, that would be a great song title”. So I left (leaving her to fold the laundry) and I came back 5 minutes later and said, “Listen to this”. I played her what I wrote, which was a rough draft of “Spider On The Wall,” and she said, “Oh, that has to be your next one”!It’s a metaphor really about people in your life just lurking there and you know something isn’t right but you’re scared and almost too afraid to push them away or out of your life but then you realize they’re just a little spider on the wall and once you get past your fear you can brush them away because they will probably scurry off…because after all they’re just a spider on the wall.
If you could sit down for a long dinner with three people—musicians, chefs, or even fictional characters—who’s at the table and what’s being served?
Tommy Thayer, David Gilmour, and Kelly Clarkson. Tommy Thayer is one of the main reasons I started playing guitar, David Gilmour is one of my favorite guitarists, and Kelly Clarkson is one of those powerhouse singers. I think we should all enjoy some Southern Fellow Tacos!
What’s next for you—any projects, releases, or goals fans should keep an eye out for this year?
Oh yes! I just released “Spider on the Wall” just in time for spooky season. Beyond that, I have several other songs ready, and plans are in the works for an EP early in 2026!
Is there anything else you would like your Southern Fellow family to know?
You guys are the best! I appreciate all the support and encouragement! Thank you!
Francesca, thank you for letting me witness your journey so closely these past five years. Thank you for showing me what it truly means to stay true to yourself in a world that often asks you to compromise. Your courage, your honesty, and your love have not only shaped your music, they’ve shaped me.
Not everyone gets the chance to spend as much time with Francesca as I have, but one thing is clear—even without knowing her personally, you can feel her heart in every note she sings. Her authenticity, energy, and passion are woven into her music, and it’s impossible not to be moved by it. I highly recommend checking her out on your favorite streaming service—Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon, and YouTube are all great places to start.
And while you’re at it, why not give the Rockin’ Carnitas recipe a try? It’s inspired by Francesca herself and perfectly pairs with the bold, fun energy of her music. If there’s interest, maybe Fran and I will even do a taco cooking video together—you never know what kind of magic can happen when music and food collide. Either way, dive into her music, try the recipe, and let yourself be inspired by someone who’s as remarkable in life as she is in song.
