Can you introduce yourself and share some insights into your background? Describe your journey into music and the experiences that have shaped you as an artist today.

My name is Chloe Lavender, I’m 18 years old and based in Los Angeles California. I started writing music when I was 14 and instantly fell in love with it. Quarantine was when I really knew songwriting and singing was what I loved. I created my first EP during that time, and it really describes the whole feeling of quarantine; feeling alone, repeating the same day, and missing friends and family. That EP is really what started my music journey. I knew I wanted to make honest songs with emotion and it helped create that and give that feeling to everyone that they are not alone.

Let’s talk about your musical inspirations. What drives you to create music, and how would you describe the unique sound and style that define your creations?

My biggest inspiration would have to be Billie Eilish, her songwriting is very honest and vulnerable and I love it when I can feel a song just by listening to it. I would describe my sound as a mix of pop and R&B. I love to have my lyrics really carry the song.

Dream collaborations can be powerful. If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be, and what aspects of their artistry draw you to them?

If I could collaborate with any artist it’d have to be Giveon. Giveon’s music has the same sound I love to feature in my music, and what really draws me towards him is how he can tell a story in a song but also keep it catchy and fun to listen to. That’s what I try to do with my songs so I think mixed together our vocals and lyrics would sound amazing.

Visualize your ideal performance. If given the opportunity to open for any artist, who would you choose, and what makes them the perfect match for your performance?

If I could open for any artist I would probably choose Sza. She also has that pop and R&B mix to her music and I feel our music gives off the same vibe.

Share some wisdom with us. What’s the most valuable advice you’ve received while pursuing your musical dreams, and how has it influenced your journey?

Some great advice I have received is to be authentic and don’t let anyone take away from your raw talent. I believe being your true self and writing music about how you truly feel makes the songs sound more relatable and authentic to not only the people listening but also yourself. That advice has helped me to feel my music and add that raw emotion into my songs. Whenever I sing or perform them it takes me back and I feel what I was feeling at that moment.

How did you become involved with Music Forward, and in what ways has Music Forward helped you along your musical journey?

Music Forward reached out to me asking me if I’d be interested in performing on Open Mic Fridays, I of course said yes because I love performing any chance I get. I ended up winning Fan Favorite and was extremely excited. The performance gave me great feedback and different opinions on my music from people who work in the music industry. Music Forward helped me in getting exposure to my music and receiving different tools on how to make it in the music industry.

Looking ahead, what are your future aspirations in your music career? Can you share specific goals you have for the future, both artistically and professionally?

My goal for my music is to become an even better songwriter and learn how to produce beats for my songs. I hope to gain a bigger audience and tell them my story through music.

Lastly, let’s delve into the essence of music. How does music personally move you, and what emotions or experiences fuel your creative process?

Music moves me because when I listen to a song I really listen to the lyrics and put myself in the shoes of the person singing it and try to feel as if I were in that situation and feel the emotion the artist put into the song and the message that they are trying to give us.

Tell us a little about yourself, your background, and your journey towards becoming the artist you are today.

Hello all, I’m Armstrong Orock, but my friends call me ArmstrongWW. I’m a super music nerd & musician who has been creating songs since the age of 6. I started my songwriting journey after hearing the end credits tracks to movies and deciding they needed some words over them. For those wondering, yes my songs from age 6 were terrible, but they started a passion that lasts till this day. A little about my background, I was born in Cameroon, Africa and moved to Houston, USA at age 7. Coming to America, my family was basically starting from zero so my childhood here was rough but had its lovely moments. I remember not having the material objects other kids did or stories about disney but I also remember how hard my parents worked to make sure I had clothes on my back and food in my mouth. Looking back, I’m grateful for that experience because it taught me to love all the little things in life, even when others have more. 

Explore your musical inspirations. What drives you to create music, and how would you characterize the unique sound and style that define your creations?

My inspirations come from a wide array of places, starting with the many activists who sparked my passion for storytelling. This includes Fred Hampton who at age 21 was already uniting people of all colors to battle injustice and aiding in feeding his community. Though he was not a musician, he used his voice to uplift black people during an extremely prejudiced time in American history. Those like him inspire me to write my lyrics with substance and deliver my verses with power so listeners can gain something from my art. Regarding my sound, I have an always active imagination so whatever my brain directs me to create is what I make. So far my brain has been giving me great ideas so I’ll keep trusting it and experimenting with my sound.

Dream collaborations can be powerful. If you could work with any artist, who would it be, and what aspects of their artistry draw you to them?

Love this question! Currently, an artist I’d love to work with would be Marcos Valle, a multi-genre musician from Brazil who’s been releasing since 1960. I discovered Marcos through a collaboration he did with Tom Misch and since then I’ve gone down the rabbit hole of listening to all his work. The tracks I enjoy the most from him are in the style of Bossa Nova which I love because of the warm instrument melodies and soft vocals. Hopefully one day I get to create something with Marcos, if not I’m still grateful for his contribution to music history.

Visualize your ideal show. If given the opportunity to open for any artist, who would you choose, and what makes them the perfect match for your performance?

My ideal show would have to be in a nature setting, maybe an open field entrapped by trees. As someone in love being outside I know I’d give my fans the greatest show of all time if I performed there. On the other hand if I had to open up for an artist it would have to be 9th Wonder. He’s one of my favorite producers and has worked with many artists I listen to daily. The way he transforms samples of all types into a variety of beats is unique, and could pair followed by my lyrical style.

Share a nugget of wisdom. What’s the most valuable advice you’ve received while pursuing your musical dreams, and how has it influenced your journey?

Something helpful I learned is that there’s a big difference between perception and reality when it comes to the music industry. Many artists believe that others are just randomly releasing music and “blowing up” or whatever else we are told by social media. This can make us artists feel insecure and like we’re not good enough when in reality many successful artists have marketing knowledge or support from labels, distributors, managers, etc*. Moreover, this information helped me because I now know how to network, market/monetize my music, and not compare my progress to others as I never truly know their real situation. 

How did you get involved with Music Forward, and how has Music Forward helped you along your musical journey?

I was recommended Music Forward by a close friend of mine who suggested I sign up for the Open Mic. This was during a time when I was working on my first self-produced project so I saw it as a great opportunity to put myself out there. Through the experience, I was introduced to Lydia Caesar and other industry experts who gave me great advice on continuing my artist journey. Additionally, I met a couple other upcoming artists who I wish to collaborate with sometime.

Future aspirations are exciting. What’s the next step in your music career, and what specific goals do you have for the future, both artistically and professionally?

In the next 1-2 years I want to put on my first tour and also have my first international performance. These two accomplishments have been a dream of mine for years and recently I’ve been feeling more prepared than ever. In the long term, I’ve been working on creating an artist management community/organization in which independent artists can use to grow their careers. So far I’ve been learning the ins and outs of the industry through various mentors, hands-on employment at labels/distributors, and practicing by introducing whatever knowledge I learn to creatives in my community. I plan on taking on this project my entire music career so I’m excited to learn more throughout the coming years.

Keep us in the loop. Do you have any new music in the pipeline for us to explore? Share details about your latest projects or upcoming releases

No words can express how hyped I am for my new releases. I’ve been collaborating with new producers/artists and I truly think my best work has been done in the last few months. On February 7th, I will be releasing one of my favorite new songs called ‘Mr Stone’ which I created with Ukrainian producer engless. This will be released with a music video premiere shot by my longtime friend and visual artist Luz Castilla. If I keep talking I’ll spoil my other surprises so I’ll stop now, but stay tuned!

Finally, let’s talk about the soul of music. How does music move you personally, and what emotions or experiences fuel your creative process?

To me, music is the heartbeat of life itself. It’s a power that has saved me numerous times throughout life and kept my imagination burning. All of my music is made through raw emotion so I also see music as a way to connect with others who share my experiences or are interested in hearing them. To end, throughout my hopefully long life, it would be a blessing to hear endless songs and create infinite melodies.  

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Tell us a little about yourself and how you decided to become a musician. 

Music and singing have been a huge part of my life since as early as I could speak. I was a toddler when I began singing Vietnamese karaoke songs at my Grandma’s house, who my family tells me I get my vocals from. I also briefly took piano lessons at the age of 5 but quit, and then picked it back up later on in 5th grade. Around that time was when I also began learning instruments like guitar and snare, as well as teaching myself the ukulele. In my freshman year of high school, I was basically forced into joining Choir, but I ended up loving it and staying for all four years. I auditioned for the advanced choir and became section leader, president, and assistant music director (who is also the conductor). Around 2021, I began songwriting and distributing my original music on streaming platforms in attempts to turn my hobby into a lifestyle and a career. 

As an avid songwriter, who (or what) inspires your songs? 

As a songwriter, lyricists like Jhene Aiko, H.E.R., SZA, Kehlani, and Summer Walker inspire me the most. These female R&B artists write their own songs and portray their vulnerability through their music in a way that is sexy, sensual, and resonates with wide audiences. They are able to take their deepest pains or most toxic stories and turn them into music of healing, or sounds that touch the hearts and souls of the listeners, which is what I strive for. I admire that they consistently portray deep emotions and meaningful lyrics through their art because chasing money, or being overly influenced by the industry, can sometimes make artists stray away from their vulnerability and authenticity.

What do you find to be the most challenging part of being an artist today? 

With this new age of social media, I see many aspiring artists being inauthentic just to chase the latest viral internet trends or be acknowledged in the music industry. The internet has a heavy influence on its users, and not allowing those external sources to taint your true self or true music is the most difficult part of being an artist today. It has been a challenge for me to continue promoting my music that resonates with myself and my truth, rather than simply dropping songs that I think will blow up as a TikTok dance trend, or conforming to the hottest trends in order to be favored by the algorithm.

How did you get involved with Music Forward, and what did you gain from your Music Forward experience?

Music Forward messaged me on Instagram on October 5, 2022. They said they came across my music and loved my sound, so I was invited to perform in the virtual Open Mic for the fall season. From that event, I had the opportunity to receive advice from a mentor about my performance, meet fellow music artists, and speak with industry experts. After winning Fan Favorite for that season, I also earned new music equipment like headphones, a microphone, and an interface, which were the last pieces I needed to get a home studio started. After that, I stayed in touch with Music Forward on Instagram and subscribed to their email newsletter, so I also participated in some of their educational panels to learn more about the industry and tips for aspiring music artists. My Music Forward experience has allowed me to gain insightful knowledge and resourceful connections.

What’s the next step for you in your music career? What goals do you have for the future?

The next step for me in my music journey is creating a team of individuals to help me with all aspects of my career and craft. As an independent artist, I am my own singer, songwriter, promoter, booking agent, manager, editor, designer, etc. Therefore, I need to find a designated producer, engineer, photographer, videographer, graphic designer, and all the rest to reliably help me execute all of my creative needs. For the future, I aim to consistently release my original music that resonates with millions of fans and gets performed at large venues and music festivals. 

Do you have any new music that we can check out?

Yes! I just released a re-master of my single “Visions” on all major platforms last month in June. I have also just won a competition and received free studio time for the entire month of July/August, so I will be dropping a lot more very soon!! 

Finally, how does music move you?

Music is frequency, which has an effect on us as mostly liquid-beings. Aside from the vibrations quite actually moving us, the lyrics and sounds can portray emotions that are also very touching. I admire that music can provide a source of expression, healing, comfort, entertainment, distraction, and any other benefit the audience wishes to draw from it. It is art, and art can be anything. The infinite possibilities and limitless boundaries for any unique individual makes it so beautiful. Music can be from anyone and for everyone. 

Tell us a little about yourself and your journey towards becoming the artist you are today. 

I’m UraelB (pronounced ou-Rell-Bey) born and raised in Los Angeles, CA. I’m a Hip-Hop Emcee, singer, and songwriter. I grew up playing sports (basketball and football) however, music has been near and dear to me all my life. Hip-Hop specifically has been embedded in my everyday life and has shaped how I carry myself. 

Your music is so fresh and innovative!  How did growing up in LA influence your signature sound, and who do you credit as your musical inspirations?

The music I make is a culmination of my childhood experiences and the variety of music I was exposed to growing up. LA can be a fast-paced/ever-active place, but the people themselves are extremely laid back and move with a breezy confidence. I carry that energy with me in my effortless lyricism and calm melodies. When I switch things up, I reflect the high intensity and liveliness LA is known for as well. Artists like Ice Cube, Kendrick Lamar, Nipsey Hussle, Tyler the Creator, and SchoolBoy Q embody these same qualities in their music that I grew up absorbing and eventually came to display in my own unique way. 

Who do you want to reach with your music, and what message do you want to convey to them?

I will reach the people out in the world who have a love for music and love passionate messages. I will tell my stories for those who don’t know them and could benefit from connecting to my experiences; I will tell the stories of others I know who don’t know how to tell their stories or don’t have the voice to express them; and I will always provide the world with messages that speak to the heart and remind everyone that life is valuable no matter what we go through. 

What has been your biggest career highlight so far?

So far, working with Mick Jenkins and doing a vocal performance on Dancing With The Stars have been my largest highlights. Both were significant accomplishments and opportunities to work with musical geniuses. I know the future holds more where that came from

How did you get involved with Music Forward, and what did you gain from your Music Forward experience?

I signed up for Music Forward’s Open Mic series and became acquainted with the platform via Instagram. Something I told myself in 2021 was to put myself out there and stop being afraid of success and ever since I’ve continued pushing my music and brand and becoming a part of the Music Forward network has helped me do that more than I could’ve imagined.

What’s next for you and your career?  Do you have any new projects or performances?

My new project will be releasing soon! The rollout and final music touches are underway so the greatest album you’ve heard will grace your ears soon!

Finally, how does music move you?

Music is the one thing that keeps me going. Whether I’m making it or consuming it, it’s the beat that keeps my heart pumping. I’m forever grateful for Hip-Hop and music in general because it’s a universal language I can inspire people with.

We sat down with June 2023 Artist of the Month Mynthia. Learn more about his journey as an artist, his experience at Music Forward, and beyond.

Tell us a little about yourself and how you decided to become an artist.

My name is Mynthia, a Pop/R&B artist. I am a Liberian-American artist, who takes pride in myself, my culture, my unapologetic persona, and my prowess on stage.

I knew since I could speak that I would go down in history as one of the greats. I always knew it was my destiny to one day have a sold-out stadium tour.

You have a very exciting and engaging stage presence – who (or what) inspires your music and your performance style?

I am very inspired by great artists who I believe push boundaries and are trailblazers in the industry. Beyonce, Michael Jackson, Prince, Bobby Brown, and Fela Kuti are just some of the artists that I draw inspiration from. I also draw a lot of inspiration from things around me, that move and shape culture. Much of my inspiration comes from my being West African, observing HBCU majorettes, and studying different cultural movements and traditions. Inspiration is all around us and I make it a point not to limit myself to one source.

What purpose do you want your music to serve for your fans and supporters?

I want my music to be a safe haven and a podium for the disenfranchised and those that feel they don’t have a seat at the table. My goal as an artist is to make every group that feels marginalized, because of their race, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, ethnic background etc. feel seen, heard, and like they have someone who can represent them. I want people to feel like I feel every day when I wake up, an ICON. Being an ICON is more than just being confident and over-the-top flamboyant. It’s about being completely unapologetically YOU regardless of what the world has to say about it. That is my goal, to make people feel that.

If you could perform at any venue in the world, where would it be?

I will be performing in sold-out stadiums all over the world one day but I would love to perform at the Great Pyramids of Giza. That would be a highlight of my career for sure.

Why do you think organizations like Music Forward are important?

I believe organizations like Music Forward are so important because they help the unattainable become attainable. I think in this industry it’s all about who you know and sometimes that can be discouraging but the access Music Forward gives you to industry professionals and to a broader audience is just excellent as it allows young people of any background to have a shot at their dreams.

What’s next for you and your career? Do you have any new projects or performances coming up?

I am headed for the stadium tour, but in the meantime, I have a single and a docu-series coming out very soon! Stay tuned icons!!

Finally, how does music move you?

Music is the reason I was created. I was put on this earth to be an entertainer and to perform. I think it’s incredibly beautiful to know your purpose in this thing we call life. I am extremely grateful and blessed to have known so early and to be able to hone and perfect my craft for so long. Music is the reason I exist and it saves my life every day.

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Tell us a little about yourself and how you decided to become a musician.

I am a Filipino-born singer, New England-raised songwriter. Being from a culture where singing karaoke is a part of every family gathering in the Philippines, that’s when I first realized how fun singing is. I was five when we moved to the United States, and eventually, I was able to join choirs and ensembles at church and school. In high school, I was able to join the select choir and was able to perform on local TV, and travel around town to sing with them. My experience with choral singing influenced the way I arrange and add harmonies.

I tried for years to learn the piano and admittedly I’m still a novice. But I found my stride with stringed instruments. I’m a big fan of Dodie and was inspired by her to buy a ukulele when I was about 16. I taught myself chords and eventually figured out how to strum and finger-pick. Then I started crafting songs on my little uke. I had all these lyrics in my head and I wanted to figure out how to convey those stories through song. When I moved to Los Angeles four years ago, I bought a six-string and taught myself guitar as well.

I had been introduced to some producers and began working with them on some material. When I was at their studio for the first time to record, we worked on one song (Magnetize) for almost 12 hours. But it didn’t feel like work, it felt like the fastest 12 hours of my life. And I wanted more. When I felt that hunger to create in the studio, that’s when I knew I wanted to do this for the rest of my life.

What is your creative process like, and how would you describe the music that you typically create?

Before I was a songwriter, I was a poet. With my background in poetry and short fiction writing, I tend to focus on crafting the lyrics first and then building the production around them. Usually, when a lyric pops in my head, a rhythm and melody come with it. Sometimes lyrics will be inspired by conversations with friends, or born out of journal entries, or can even be a twist of a common phrase like “Heart of gold, you’ve got one too / My safe harbor with a beautiful view.”

I’d describe my music as folk-pop, with a touch of chamber pop, anchored in singer/songwriter sensibilities. I love the storytelling aspect of folk music, and incorporating choral-like harmonies and orchestral instruments to create a lush sound. I write almost everything on guitar and then when composing and arranging, I like to make sure I have a good rhythm section to keep the song moving. I also like experimenting and trying to incorporate different sounds into a song that aren’t always used together. Learning to produce my own music has been such a liberating and creatively fulfilling experience because I get to combine lots of different sounds.

Growing up, who or what were some of your inspirations (musical or otherwise)?

Growing up in Western Massachusetts with English as my second language, I loved reading as a way to expand my vocabulary and nurture my imagination. Along with YA books and classic literature, I was immersed in a lot of Romantic-era poetry. So lots of Emily Dickinson and Robert Frost. I also got into Spoken Word Poetry in high school, with Sarah Kay being a standout. I’m also a huge musical theatre nerd so I fell in love with how songs could expand and drive a story forward.

Sonically, I’m inspired by music with great, driving percussion that really makes you feel alive. I find inspiration in clever, fun lyricists and evocative production that all come together to tell a story. More than that, musicians who paint word pictures. But also music that’s just fun and artists who like to experiment without taking themselves so seriously.

The Beatles, Fleetwood Mac, Taylor Swift, Lorde, Coldplay, Queen, Beyoncé, and Lana Del Rey were on constant rotation growing up.

How did you get involved in Music Forward?

During the lockdown, I was looking for virtual gigs to do because I had just released my debut EP “Reaching Out For A Lullaby.” Somehow, I came across the Music Forward website and saw the application for Virtual Open Mic Fridays. After signing up, there was another program suggested to me on the page. It was for an upcoming music production program in partnership with Apple called “Today at Apple Creative Studios LA.” At the time, I was still learning how to produce my own music but it wasn’t at the level I wanted and I was intimidated by the technical aspects of production and audio engineering. I signed up for that program too and hoped for the best.

I’m grateful to say I was accepted to both programs and the rest is history!

What would you say is the most important thing you have gained from your Music Forward experience?

Aside from a wonderful community of musicians and mentors, I’d say the most important thing I gained from Music Forward is definitely the confidence in making my own music. Not only through the technical skills gained from the TAACSLA Program, which helped demystify the production process. But also with how everyone I’ve met at Music Forward is so encouraging of our growth. Having that community behind you is so valuable as an artist and young professional.

What has been your biggest career highlight so far?

After the Today at Apple program, I was contacted by Nalini about an upcoming internship opportunity. It was for a touring band where I would have the chance to travel, learn, and work with their crew. As a self-taught musician, I jumped at the chance to learn a new and different side of the industry from seasoned pros. After an extensive interview process, I got the news that I was selected!

To have traveled and worked with an incredible crew for an amazing band is such a dream my younger self could never have fathomed. I’ve made wonderful memories and great friends and connections. And because of Music Forward, I can say that I am a professional in the music industry!

What’s next for you and your career? Do you have any new projects or performances coming up?

While on break during tour last year, I had a traumatic accident and needed to be hospitalized for two months. I had to relearn how to walk and am still on that healing journey. Songwriting has been a therapeutic part of my recovery and my upcoming EP “Anniversary” will touch upon the messy emotions that come with dealing and healing from trauma. It will be released on the anniversary of one of the surgeries that were instrumental in my rehabilitation, so I’m excited to reframe that day from one of pain and mourning to one of celebration.

Finally, how does music move you?

Almost all important moments of my life so far have been underscored by music. Whether it’s listening to music as I studied, or listening to music in recovery, to creating and sharing stories with the world. It’s amazing how music can connect us and unite people from so many different backgrounds. And I’m so grateful to be part of this community and have the ability to move people the way my favorite artists have moved me. Music moves me by motivating and inspiring me.

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Meet Adrian Flores, our new Director of Marketing! Learn a little more about Adrian and what led him to Music Forward below!

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your journey leading to your role at Music Forward.

I have over 17 years of experience as a marketer and sponsorship manager/director within Los Angeles’ music and entertainment space. I’ve worked at companies such as AEG Presents, Sam Nazarian’s SBE, LA Canvas, Grand Performances, and more. I earned a Business degree from Pepperdine University and thrive in a team environment; I also love learning about culture, tech, and anything related to art and music.

My experiences within the non-profit realm and the music industry led me to my role at Music Forward!

Describe what you do at Music Forward. What you are most excited about?

I am Music Forward’s (MF) newly appointed Marketing Director. This position is perfect because I thrive on being creative and telling a story while digging into the data. I always find new creative outlets and love seeing life through a unique perspective. My favorite part about being at MF is the team and the ability to help build our MF vision by using my relationships and experience to excel and ensure that MF thrives as one of the most valuable non-profits in the music industry.

What about your career path so far do you think best prepares you for your new position?

I’ve overseen significant sponsorship and marketing campaigns from concept to execution. I’ve also produced live events and led artist development for major artists. I understand both the creative and business process in that I can clearly see what story needs to be told from different perspectives ranging from the targeted demographic to a major sponsor.

Growing up, who or what were some of your inspirations?

Growing up, I was always drawn to music and have early memories of watching Nirvana on MTV in awe of the artistry. That said, I knew I wasn’t interested in being a musician. I became very inspired when a friend’s father was working in the music industry, and I realized I could play a role in bringing music to people without having to pick up an instrument.

What do you think are the secrets behind getting to where you want to be?

To know that there is never a perfect path and there is also no better time than right now. While strategizing is essential, you must also understand that there may never be an ideal moment, and sometimes you have to jump in. 

What piece of advice would you give to young people looking for their first role in the music industry?

Understand what you’re passionate about and find a way to work it into your career. My first industry jobs were not developed positions, but I found my way into the company and created departments at a young age to fit their needs by using my natural talents and passion.

Always be a good person to work with (in general) because you never know when you will work with those people again. The music industry is big and yet very small!

What has been your most memorable or favorite live music experience?

My most memorable concert experience would have to be the first time I saw TOOL. It was at a Wearhouse in Houston, TX.  My best friend and I had been obsessing over TOOL for years and knew all the music.   We found a way backstage and even got to hang out with the band!  Throughout the years I’ve run into them at other events and shows. The guitarist (Adam Jones) and Drummer (Danny Carey)  still recognize me from way back then which feels wonderful.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your journey leading to your role at Music Forward.

I grew up in Inglewood, CA and I have actually been involved with Music Forward since 2017. I initially found Music Forward in high school and became a participant in a mentorship program called UForward. I continued participating in Music Forward programs as an artist through undergrad and eventually graduated from UC San Diego in June 2021. I joined the Music Forward staff the following year as an intern and then went on to be hired full-time in the summer of 2022!

Describe what you do at Music Forward and what you are most excited about?

I am an Education Coordinator at Music Forward. My role is basically a link between students, internal staff, and music industry partners throughout the various programs and opportunities that Music Forward offers. The most exciting part of my position would be connecting young artists/professionals to opportunities and information about the music industry. As a young artist myself, I know how it feels to face the industry from the outside and feel the weight of trying to find your way in on your own.  I love that we provide the students with experiences and information that really gives them an advantage.

Growing up, who or what were some of your inspirations?

I’ve always been inspired by music and my family.

What do you think are the secrets behind getting to where you want to be?

I believe the secret to getting what you want/where you want are patience, diligence, and determination. Most goals aren’t achieved in one day. So it’s important to really know what you want and trust the process. It’s also important to work diligently towards your goals because they won’t just happen on their own. Prepare yourself to receive the rewards you’re working for so that when they do happen whether it takes two years or two weeks you are ready.

What piece of advice would you give to young people looking for their first role in the music industry?

There is always something useful to learn no matter the position.  The music industry is ever-changing so there is never too much to observe and learn about how the industry works. I would also say to remember to build your network. Even if you aren’t starting in the “perfect dream job,” the quality of work you put in and the relationships you build may lead you to the opportunities you are looking for.

What has been your most memorable or favorite live music experience? 

My most memorable live experience so far would have to be seeing James Blake at the Hollywood Bowl in the fall of 2021. Firstly, because I am a big fan of James Blake and he is a big inspiration for my own music but also because I walked the stage at the Hollywood Bowl when I graduated from high school. So, it was very surreal to see a musical hero of mine perform on the stage where I got my diploma.

How does music move you?

Music moves me in every direction. Whether I am just listening to music in the background while I work, listening while I workout, listening to relax, or making music myself. It is a massive part of my everyday life and I couldn’t live without it. I am constantly moved by music and its power to connect us all!