Through The Lens is our weekly series where we highlight current students and faculty, capture them on campus and ask them about their inspirations, advice and beyond.
What are some of your fondest musical memories?
Some of my fondest musical memories growing up started at a super early age. I started singing when I was three years old when I saw the movie “Selena.” I remember thinking that she was just like me, a Latina-American girl who didn’t speak much Spanish. She became my biggest idol and made me realize that’s what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I saw all the fancy outfits, all the places she got to take her music, and how many people she inspired, and I knew I wanted to be a role model for young girls all over the world. So, I got involved in every performance opportunity that I could. I joined the children’s choir, sang in church, and did numerous talent competitions.
My biggest influences growing up were Etta James and Aretha Franklin. I listened to a lot of jazz, soul, pop & hip hop growing up. Jazz/soul was always the kind of music that would just make me feel something and take me to a higher place. The top three musicians I admire the most today are Beyoncé, Stevie Wonder, and Chance the Rapper. I am always completely inspired by Beyoncé’s shows because they are truly a hard driven work of art. I love Stevie Wonder’s balance of soulfulness, complex musicality, yet catchiness of songs that just make you feel good. Chance the Rapper is someone that I have been following early on in his career and I truly admire how far he has pushed his career as an independent artist. I truly admire how giving and selfless he is towards his hometown community.
Describe your musical journey.
Blog Post
"*" indicates required fields
By submitting this form, I authorize Musicians Institute (MI) to make or allow the placement of calls, emails, and texts to me at the phone number that I have provided, including through the use of automated technology, or a prerecorded or artificial voice. I understand that I am not required to provide my phone number as a condition of purchasing any property, goods, or services. I agree to the terms of MI’s Privacy Policy. MI will not sell or rent your information to third parties, and you may unsubscribe at any time.
Over the past couple years I have spent a lot of time writing original music and developing my sound as an artist. It has been quite a journey as I discover my voice and my message. My music has become my spirituality. If I could sum it all up in one phrase it would be: “if I had one request granted after I’m gone, I would ask my creator to turn the radio on.” -Emily King.