Can you take us back to the beginning? What are your earliest memories, and how do you think they’ve shaped who you are today?
Earliest memories are definitely me at home playing around with my dad’s cassette tapes (which I didn’t know were demos/roughs) and being fascinated with music all the time. His manager at the time would come over and he gifted me this little karaoke/recording machine that you could put a cassette tape or CD in and you could sing over it. I didn’t know you could actually record at first but when I figured out you could.. It was a wrap! I also remember going so many places with my dad and even at school and I’d be fascinated by the stage. I think all of these memories I have (there’s many more than these of course) shape who I am today, I don’t think I’d be as into music if I didn’t have that familial introduction at the very early moments of my life.
As you reflect on your life, are there any key moments or turning points that stand out to you? What made them significant?
There’s too many to name, I think two big ones were when I went to LA and found myself and when my father passed away last year. The former made me realize music was truly my passion and what I needed to focus on, and the latter made me realize just how precious life truly is, and how every moment leads to moments later on in your life. It also made me realize how short it is too, and that you’ve got to live life the way you want to in order to succeed.
Who were the most influential people in your life, and how have they impacted your journey and development?
Definitely my parents, their friends, my teachers, mentors, and the people I watched on TV. I watched a ton of music videos (AOL Music on demand to be exact) and I remember how fascinated I was with all of the videos and songs that were available to watch. I’d also watch MTV music videos in the morning before school. I think they all impacted my journey, I don’t think I’d be where I am without their guidance and experience.
What challenges have you faced along the way, and how did you overcome them?
I feel like I’m still facing challenges and overcoming them. I think it’s just through perseverance and not giving up even when you feel like you want to. There’s always going to be an obstacle or a challenge, it’s all about how you tackle them in my opinion.
If you were to pick a theme or a lesson that runs through your life story, what would it be?
Strength, resilience, a bit of luck, and passion. Those are the themes I’d definitely say stand out in my life.
Are there specific accomplishments or milestones that you’re particularly proud of, and why do they hold such significance for you?
Hmm… good question! I think right now is a very special time for me given the fact I’ve been performing as a musician not for too long and I’ve been offered special opportunities and been able to gig at venues I’ve always wanted to perform at. I think being given the opportunities to be interviewed is a huge milestone for me too, I never thought especially this early on that people would be interested in my music and my story, so this all means a lot to me!
Looking ahead, what are your hopes and aspirations for the next chapter of your life story? What legacy do you want to leave behind?
I have a lot of hopes and aspirations! I think the biggest right now is to be able to put more music out, build a bigger fan base, make more connections, and be able to travel and perform. In terms of legacy, I want people to know who I am for my music and that it touched them and allowed them to relate. I want to have made an impact in people’s lives and, although I don’t think it is possible to do this single-handedly, try to make the world a better place.