Create & Cultivate 100: Music: Este Haim, Danielle Haim, and Alana Haim
“Never take no for an answer.”
Their harmonies have touched the hearts and imaginations of millions around the world along with their effortless style (California rock’n’roll with a 70s twist) and bohemian locks (there are thousands of Pins dedicated to their hair). Yes, the HAIM sisters, Este, Danielle, and Alana have taken over our lives and we’re not mad about it. But while their music is soothing, the lyrics tell a different story.
These Cali sisters aren’t messing around when it comes to their message—they’re not afraid to rip up the rule book and do things their way. They’re also paving the way for female musicians and aren’t here to be treated differently to their male counterparts telling the Guardian that “we can go toe-to-toe with any male rock band and blow them out of the water.” And we believe them. Read on to learn why we’re honoring them in our top 10 for music and how saying “no” more led to more “yes.’”
CREATE & CULTIVATE: Your parents started your musical education early. Can you take us back to that time? How old were you? What was it like in the HAIM household? Can you share some of your fondest memories of those early years learning music and finding your voice/style as musicians?
ESTE, DANIELLE, ALANA HAIM: We obviously grew up in a very musical household, there was always music playing. We would do the dishes to disco music with our mom and dad on Saturday nights. We would listen to the radio on family road trips and our parents would harmonize with each other. I think that’s what fostered our love of harmony.
How did you learn how to write music? In an interview, you said it was through dissecting classic rock songs and disco numbers your parents listened to—Is that true? What does your writing process look like now? Where do you source inspiration? How do you work together on music? What does each of you bring to the writing process? How has it changed from the beginning of your career to now? How has your music evolved?
Yes, that is very true! We would listen to the radio and record songs to tape and then learn them by ear. We’re lucky that we’ve built a very trusting relationship when it comes to songwriting in that there is truly no judgment when it comes to throwing out ideas. We know that you have to go through 100 million bad ideas to get to one good one so we collectively trust that the weird ideas we come up with won’t be met with anything other than support.
When you hit a bump or hurdle in your career, how do you #FindNewRoads + switch gears to find success?
We love a challenge. When someone tells us that something isn’t possible we thrive on proving them wrong.
“We’ve said ‘no’ more than we’ve said ‘yes,’ and that has led to more opportunities than anything.”
The music industry is historically male-dominated. What has been your experience? Do you see a change coming through? What hopes do you have for the future? What advice can you share for other female musicians coming up behind you?
We have seen some changes for the better so we are hopeful. By the same token, we also have a long way to go! My sisters and I have always known exactly what we want and how we want it done and that has been the key.
Who are the women in the industry that have been mentors and supporters for you? Why? How has this person shaped you and your career?
Jenny Lewis was one of the first people who truly championed us which was crazy since we’ve been fans of hers since 2001. She took Danielle on tour in 2009 and ever since then has been a beacon of light that inspires us.
Your melodies and harmonies might be sweet but they have an edge and a rebellious spirit—you've ripped up the rule book and are determined to do things your way. Where do these "zero fucks given" energy come from? How do you summon that fearlessness? How has this influenced your music? What message do you hope it conveys to fans?
Our family is full of very strong-minded independent women who have always inspired us to do things our own way. We're also very lucky we have each other when support is needed.
With success comes opportunity but that also means you have your hands full—what keeps you inspired and motivated to keep going even on your most challenging days?
Our creativity and drive never wains. We also make sure to surround ourselves with creative-driven people that keep us on our toes.
The filtered world of social media often hides a lot of the hard work and hustle behind-the-scenes—What are the key traits required to be a success?
Drive.
The music industry is fairly cut-throat and competitive—What advice do you have for musicians coming up now? What do you wish you'd know when you were first starting out? Why?
Never take no for an answer—if you want something done, do it yourself.
You've achieved so much success since your first album—What are some of the biggest lessons you’ve learned along the way and what have they taught you?
Take your time but also know when something is finished.
“We love a challenge. When someone tells us that something isn’t possible we thrive on proving them wrong.”
What is the hardest decision you’ve ever had to make professionally? Why? And how did you turn it into an opportunity?
We've said “no” more than we've said “yes,” and that has led to more opportunities than anything.
You have had incredible success already but what does success mean to you? How do you measure success?
It means so much to us that we can play shows anywhere in the world and our fans with show up! That’s the best part of the job.
In a saturated industry, what do you think makes you and your music stand out? How can others reading this find/create a unique point of view? How do you stay true to who you are and your voice?
Try to write something every day. Even if it’s just a cool line or one cool melody. Don’t feel pressure to write a full song when you sit down to work.
What is the #1 book you always recommend? And what is the #1 album you always recommend?
Letters to a Young Poet by Rainer Maria Rilke. And for album, Miles of Aisles by Joni Mitchell.
Create & Cultivate 100: Music: Sarah Barthel
"It's not an easy road but if you're doing it for the right reasons, then you will find your success.”
When you tune into Sarah Barthel’s emotive lyrics from the popular electro-pop duo, Phantogram there’s a moment where space and time disappear and you lose yourself. Tracks like “Mouthful of Diamonds” and “When I’m Small” became instant hits and garnered an immediate global fanbase, but it’s easy to see why. It’s not just Barthel’s insane musical talent that attracts us to her—a killer style, ever-changing hairstyles, and ultra-cool persona make us all wish she was our best friend.
And after being on set with her for the CC100 photoshoot, we can attest that she is all of the above, and more. Barthel’s electronic-rock music has been pushing the boundaries of pop for over a decade, inspiring audiences around the world and musicians. Billie Eilish recently covered the group’s 2016 hit, ‘You Don’t Get Me High Anymore’ for BBC 1 Radio and called it, “one of her favorite songs.”
Ahead, the singer/songwriter shares her musical journey, how she collaborates with friend and Phantogram’s other half, Josh Carter, and some major career advice for emerging musicians.
CREATE & CULTIVATE: Your latest release and third single this year, 'In a Spiral' was just released—Can you talk us through the creative process for this song? What was the inspiration/drive? How have you grown since releasing your first album? How has the music evolved?
SARAH BARTHEL: In a Spiral has been sitting in my pocket for a few years in the hopes that it would make it on our last album Three. I started writing on josh's original beat when I lived in NYC and loved the energy and how fresh it sounded. The rest of the song was finished up in Joshua Tree and you can definitely hear the desert influence in the sample that Josh added. We love writing songs that you can't put into any category and this one is definitely that.
When you hit a bump or hurdle in your career, how do you #FindNewRoads + switch gears to find success?
I think keeping things fresh and exciting is very important especially being in a band together as long as we have—each album cycle is a new journey experience. They all have their own hurdles to overcome but it's a part of the journey.
You've been collaborating with Josh since 2007 and I read that you kept most of your music to yourselves in the beginning. It wasn't until 2009 when you started giving away free CDs on a street corner—what does your creative process look like? How do you maintain a good working relationship? What tips do you have for other creatives on making a partnership work successfully like yours?
Josh and I are one of the lucky ones. We've been friends our whole lives. He's like a brother to me and my best friend on this earth. I call him my biggest witness as well as my psychic twin. We've always had the same vision musically, visually, and aesthetically. We are one of the lucky bands because we've never had our egos get in the way. I'm his biggest fan and he's mine.
Our drive to make the band a success has been the same since day one. We knew what we wanted and we hit the ground running. My advice to other bands is to understand why you want to be doing this. It's not an easy road but if you're doing it for the right reasons, then you will find your success, whatever that may be.
“It’s not an easy road but if you’re doing it for the right reasons, then you will find your success, whatever that may be.”
Who in your field most inspires/influences you? How has this person shaped your career and music style? Why?
I'm inspired by artists who aren't afraid of evolving, growing, and experimenting. Artists like Beck, Outkast, and Kendrick Lamar are good examples of this; each one of their records is nothing like the last and continues to allow themselves to be true artists. I strive to do the same as an artist.
Music, like any art, is really subjective. Do you ever read what people say about the music or their response, whether it’s positive or negative? How do you respond/deal with criticism? What advice do you have for other creatives reading this who are dealing with that? What helped you get through the early/uncertain stages of your career?
I used to give a shit—it's not worth it effecting your art. As long as we maintain our integrity, it makes me feel satisfied. I want to make music that is fresh and innovative. If people don't understand it, it's okay. That just means it's ahead of its time and that's a good thing to me.
You always seem so bold and self-assured—where do you think this confidence stems from? What advice do you have for people who are feeling self-doubt and want to have more courage?
It comes from believing in my art—I know what I want and who I am.
You and Josh have chosen to take an unhurried approach to create music rather than pumping it out on-demand. Why have you chosen this slower-paced strategy? What are the advantages/disadvantages? Would you recommend this?
We've built a solid fanbase organically so all of our fans are true fans. They understand and respect us as artists. Sometimes that means waiting a little longer because they know the product will not disappoint. All killer no filler is our motto. If the art you are making is timeless, then time doesn't matter as much.
The filtered world of social media often hides a lot of the hard work and hustle behind-the-scenes—what is the reality of being a musician today? Be honest!
It's a hard road to get to where we are now. I'm so glad we started when we did because social media shows a fake reality. It's not glamorous but that's not why we do it. I can't even count the number of disgusting bathrooms and green rooms I've had to change and put on makeup in, how many strangers floors I’ve slept on, and top ramens I've eaten in the past but it was well worth it.
You tackle some of the big topics head-on in your music with raw lyrics and moody beats which really resonates with your fans. Have you always felt drawn to this style? Where does it stem from? What advice do you have for other musicians reading this who are still finding their style or voice?
I have always been drawn to emotional and meaningful music—the rawness comes from my heart. My art is honest and vulnerable and I think our fans can see that it comes from somewhere real. People are fed so much bull shit in this world so they want to find the truth somewhere. My advice is, people can smell bullshit a mile away so be honest with yourself.
With success comes opportunity but that also means you have your hands full. What keeps you inspired and motivated to keep going even on your most challenging days?
The reminder that I get to live my dream every single day and my art makes a difference in people’s lives.
You've had such a successful career in such a short space of time—What do you wish you had known when you first started out? What advice would you give other young women hoping to break it in the music industry?
We've been a band for 10 years! Holy shit yeah that's a long time. My advice to myself 10 years ago would be don't try and do it all. There is a breaking point that can be very dangerous and harmful to your mental health—just be aware of that.
“Don’t try and do it all.”
You have a really unique image and your personality shines through on your Instagram. How do you stay true to who you are and your voice? What advice do you have for other women who want to carve a unique POV for themselves?
Thank you! I think this goes back to being confident in who I am, accepting myself and not being afraid to live my truth. Even if that truth is being Post Malone for Halloween or feeling myself in the mirror, haha.
What is the #1 book you always recommend? Why? What is the #1 album you always recommend? Why?
I'm kind of a weirdo when it comes to books—the darker the better—so I'd recommend any Bukowski or Hubert Selby Junior. Dang, my number one album is a tough one. There are too many albums that have had a huge impact on me. One of the recent favorites that I could recommend is Angel Olsen’s Woman—it's phenomenal.
Photographer: Jenna Peffley
Hair: Styled by OGXpert & Celebrity Hairstylist Jillian Halouska
VIEW THE FULL CREATE & CULTIVATE 100 MUSIC LIST HERE.
Create & Cultivate 100: Music: Bebe Rexha
“The only way to overcome fear, nerves, and hurdles is to face them with strength and confidence.”
She's a Grammy-nominated artist with 7.6 million Instagram followers but Bebe Rexha is also here to shine a light on mental health issues. The multi-platinum-selling singer-songwriter is known for some of your favorite pop star’s biggest hits (think Selena Gomez, Iggy Azalea, Rihanna and Eminem) and now as she branches out as a solo artist, Rexha is riding a wave of success. But she’s not afraid to pull back the filter on social media and share her vulnerabilities too—the good days with the bad.
Despite all of her fame and fortune (she’s collaborated with major artists like Cardi B and Rita Ora) the talented musician has proven there’s plenty below the surface, too. Read on to learn why she is one of the industry's most promising musicians and how she’s changing the game, one truth bomb after another.
CREATE & CULTIVATE: You recently launched a minute long docu-series in which you share your life with your fans over Instagram. Why did you choose to start sharing more? Where did the idea for 60-second mini-documentaries come from?
BEBE REXHA: I'm so glad you saw this. This was an idea I had to share what some of my favorite and most hectic moments are like while on the road. When on tour for several months, I wanted to think of a fun way to connect with fans outside of quick social media posts, so we decided to make these mini-docs. They're actually a blast to make.
When you hit a bump or hurdle in your career, how do you #FindNewRoads + switch gears to find success
When I reach an obstacle, I push right through it. The only way to overcome fear, nerves, and hurdles to face them with strength and confidence. Anyone can do anything they set their hearts to.
“I say what I feel, I mean what I see, and I try to spread words that empower and/or make people think.”
You recently said your new song 'You Can't Stop The Girl' was inspired by Serena Williams. Where else do you find your inspiration? Who else inspires you and your work?
I find inspiration everywhere in this world. I am inspired by the stories from fans I meet on the road, I am inspired by fellow artists and musicians who also use their reach to help others, I am inspired by everyone who stands up against society's pre-constructed norms, and much more. I just returned from Albania where I visited those affected by a recent earthquake, and I met some families who lost everything, yet they greeted me with open arms and smiles on their faces—that is inspiring.
You preach (and practice) the idea of self-love. What does self-love mean to you? Why is it important for women to embrace this attitude?
I'm grateful to be surrounded by people who also practice self-love, and that has helped me learn self-love. I try to pay that forward with my music and messages.
The music industry is fairly cut-throat and competitive. What advice do you have for musicians coming up now? What do you wish you'd know when you were first starting out? Why?
It is okay to say ‘no.’ And if someone says' ‘no’ to you, it doesn't mean you cannot push forward in other ways.
You've spoken out about many of the problems with the music industry, especially those surrounding body image and sexism. What changes are you hoping to see in the industry in the future? How can we make it happen?
I'd really like to see people of all ages, all sizes, and all genders continue to prevail in the music industry. I feel proud to see diversity on the stage and by celebrating art for what it is, and not what the person who makes it looks like, is what we should continue to focus on.
You have had incredible success already but what does success mean to you? How do you measure success? Why? What characteristics make you successful in the music industry?
Thank you. I am proud of my accomplishments thus far, and I do not feel anywhere close to being finished. I actually feel like I'm just getting started. One of the things that I am most proud of is that I am afforded the opportunity to write the songs I perform. The songwriting process and art of collaboration is something that keeps me going.
“Even with all of the self-love and confidence I strive for, I do still have my moments of vulnerability.”
You come across so confident in both your music and your online presence. How have you developed this confidence? How can other people build this confidence in themselves?
I am proud that it appears that way but even with all of the self-love and confidence I strive for, I do still have my moments of vulnerability. And I'm not shy about showing my vulnerabilities on social media and embracing the good days and bad days. I feel so much love from my fans—they can turn my mood around in a heartbeat (love you all).
Social media filters have disrupted our sense of reality. How do you stay true to who you are and your voice and not follow what everyone else is doing or is popular on Instagram?
Oh, sometimes I receive suggestions to have a better filter on Instagram (keeping in mind the diverse age demographics of people on social media) but I just stay true to me. I say what I feel, I mean what I see, and I try to spread words that empower and/or make people think.
VIEW THE FULL CREATE & CULTIVATE 100 MUSIC LIST HERE.
Making Moves: Promotions, App Upgrades, and Calling Out Inequality
Women are speaking up this week.
Every Friday, we here at C&C like to celebrate all of the moves women are making in their industries. And as always, this was a good week for women. Read on to see women getting promotions, speaking up against inequality and discrimination, and more!
Sylvia Rhone has been promoted from president to chairman and CEO of Epic Records. In this position, she will have control over the label’s creative direction and management of the label. Rhone was the the first African American woman to be the chairman of a major record company when she was made chairman and CEO of Warner Music Group's Elektra Entertainment Group in 1994. That’s music to our ears!
Abigail Disney, the granddaughter of Walt Disney, called out the Disney Company for contributing to economic inequality in the US. She called Disney CEO Bob Igar’s $65.7m salary in 2018 as “insane” and noted that the lowest-paid company employees only make $15 an hour. Way to speak up, girl!
No filter necessary. Bumble is beginning to develop an AI-enhanced “private detector,” which will screen unsolicited nude photos sent through the app. Bumble CEO and founder Whitney Wolfe Herd and Bumble’s parent company founder Andrey Andreev are working together to make the internet a safer and friendlier space for women.
Way to call out workplace discrimination! Former CBS executive Whitney Davis recently published a letter in Variety detailing the discriminatory and toxic culture present within CBS. She details the racism she personally experienced, as well as racist comments spoken about other people of color. Davis attributes the network’s toxic environment to its “white problem,” and it bringing awareness to the systemic racism present in the entertainment industry.
Sign on the dotted line. Michelle Obama, the Reach Higher Initiative, and Better Make Room are hosting a College Signing Day on Wednesday, May 1st. The Reach Higher Initiative was started by Obama to encourage more high school students to pursue a college education. The event itself will have a multitude of celebrity guests and performances.
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Create & Cultivate 100: Music: Ashley Tisdale
“Let go of fear of failure because there is no such thing.”
Is there anything Ashley Tisdale can’t do?
The actress, singer, and influencer may have risen to fame via Disney Channel, but her life since has been filled with so much more: a hit debut album, several starring roles in film & TV series, a fashion line, and most recently, a booming cosmetics brand (she acquired her namesake brand, Illuminate by Ashley Tisdale, from BH Cosmetics last year).
So what’s next for this busy entrepreneur? She’s returning to music for the first time in a decade to produce the album we all need to hear. Symptoms, her forthcoming album, is based on Ashley’s experiences with anxiety and depression—she wants to break the stigma around talking about mental health, and we can’t wait to watch her do it.
You’re about to release a new album, Symptoms. Tell us about your return to music after a 9-year hiatus.
It feels great to be back in music. It’s been a long time but I feel Symptoms is the most authentic thing I’ve done. For the first time, fans are gonna really get to know me personally!
Symptoms is based on your experiences with anxiety and depression. Was it intimidating to put yourself out there in such a vulnerable way?
It’s definitely scary! I’ve never really let people in like this and you feel kind of naked, but I think it’s too important to finally speak about these things and what I go through. I just wanted to make someone feel less alone in their journey!
Why do you think it’s important to share your struggles with mental health?
I think it’s easy to think that we all live perfect lives because of social media but it’s so important to also share that no one lives a perfect life we all have different issues and struggles. Anxiety is so acceptable now but there is still a stigma around depression and I want to break that!
You rose to fame via Disney Channel. Do you look back fondly on your High School Musical days?
Yeah! It was such a great experience, it feels like a lifetime ago.
What’s been the biggest surprise or highlight of your career to date?
I would say taking over Illuminate and becoming CEO. Years ago I would have never thought that was gonna be a role I would fill or even be confident to handle and yet here I am!
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Let go of fear of failure because there is no such thing. Everyone goes through ups and downs and it is what gets you to the next step! It is truly a journey.
When you hit a bump or hurdle in your career, how do you find new roads + switch gears to find success?
Staying positive. Don’t let bump or hurdles scare you, usually that’s a challenge you are meant to grow from! Just keep going and let your intuition guide you.
Let go of fear of failure because there is no such thing.
What about your job makes you feel the most fulfilled?
Being creative! I love working and love being creative in everything I do. I also love to keep learning. I can’t just be an actress because it’s not in my blood to sit and wait for the next job or audition. I love working on so many things and just being creative in general.
What guidance would you offer to young women who are chasing their dreams in entertainment?
Nothing comes easy, it takes hard work and never giving up. You will cry, you will tell yourself it’s not worth it and at times you will feel like you failed but don’t listen to those voices and keep going because you will never get to where you’re going if you quit.
What are you most excited for in 2019?
I’m excited for everyone to hear the full album Symptoms and to see all the exciting things we’ve been creating at Illuminate Cosmetics!
Photo Courtesy of Ashley Tisdale
VIEW THE FULL CREATE & CULTIVATE 100 MUSIC LIST HERE.
Create & Cultivate 100: Music: MILCK
“I encourage women to spend more energy working towards a vision they believe in, rather than fighting against a vision that they disagree with. “
“I can’t keep quiet,” says the chorus of what became the anthem for the 2017 Women’s March. Written by MILCK, known to her friends as Connie (her stage name is a combination of her initials and last name, Lim, spelled backwards), the song became a viral sensation after a video of the haunting melody circulated online.
Connie wrote the song, a part of her larger debut EP This Is Not The End, in the leadup to the 2016 election. The entire album evokes heartfelt determination—it’s a call to action, but a call to be kind to yourself, too. And it led to some of the high points in her career thus far: performing with Yoko Ono at the 2018 Women’s March, singing at the ESPYs to honor survivors of the Larry Nassar case, and writing dozens of songs we can’t wait to hear.
When you listen to Connie talk about writing her music, you can feel the intention behind her words. She doesn’t just speak her truth—she encourages you to speak yours, too.
Your hit song, Quiet, became the anthem of the Women’s March on Washington. Did you expect such a strong reaction to the song?
I wrote the song at the end of 2015. At that time, the biggest acts in music were like Chainsmokers. The music was more produced and dancey. When I left the studio the day I wrote “Quiet,” I thought to myself, “I finally wrote my thesis. I finally wrote the feelings that were stuck in my throat for years.” I didn’t think it’d be a viral hit. I actually didn’t know how the song would survive in the noise of the modern world, as I view it as such a gentle rebellion song.
What was your inspiration for Quiet?
There are so many different reasons why I had to write “Quiet”. Ever since I can remember, I’ve always felt a bit out of place. A bit too opinionated. A bit too passionate. A bit too rebellious. A bit too rowdy or goofy. The pressure to be a skinny, well-behaved, kind, considerate, smart, and beautiful girl was tremendous. I felt like I wanted to scream. Take the pressures of embodying a narrow definition of femininity, and multiply it with two conservative, first generation, Chinese parents, and that was my existence for a very long time.
Because I was not encouraged to truly express my opinions in my loving, yet traditional and strict household, I desperately needed an outlet to speak my truth, so singing and songwriting have always been my outlets. I wrote “Quiet” when I was 28 years old. I was starting to reach an age of maturity and “IDGAF” strength, and I was digesting all the suppressed rage and hurt from years of being silenced by both loved ones and abusers. The beautiful thing about a woman about to enter her 30s is that she has potential to unleash a marvelous strength. And that’s where I was at. I was armed with my years of experience in songwriting, and years of pain. I took those two things, and released the lump that was stuck in my throat. As an Asian American woman, I felt catharsis in breaking stereotypes and rounding out the image of the Asian woman by expressing my desire to be bold, rebellious, loving, and free.
The song is a rallying cry for justice and change. Does it ever feel heavy to carry that responsibility and be the face of such a huge movement?
The good news is that the movement has many faces, as there is no such thing as one person being the voice for a movement. A movement requires unity amongst a crowd of voices. It’s more like a choir. I just happened to lead the first #icantkeepquiet choir with a vision for unity and harmony.
That being said, right after the song went viral, I did feel a tremendous amount of pressure to say the most loving, yet most brave thing with everything I did. I actually got a bit burnt out from the tremendous amount of analysis about world politics, feminism, and activism. On top of that, I signed with Atlantic Records, and I was finding my voice as a recording artist, and learning to work with a team. Overnight I went from being a one woman DIY show to a signed artist with a team of 15 people helping me keep up with the momentum of the movement and the song. After two years of traveling and sharing of my story of survival and finding my voice eventually got to me, and I took a couple weeks off to focus on just making beats on my production rig with close friends. I had to find the joy in music again, and allow myself to sing about anything I wanted, regardless if it was going to fit into the movement or not. After all, freedom for women to express whatever they are born to express is the ultimate goal of this movement; that is why I am freeing myself from any expectations, and letting myself simply be true to myself.
Tell us about the rest of your album, This Is Not The End. You wrote it right before the election.
This is Not The End is a collection of songs that I wrote as I was learning how to defend myself from my own demons. I was freeing myself of shame, fear, and doubt. Some of the songs are to soothe myself, like “This is Not The End,” my cover of “Ooh Child,” and “ Black Sheep.” Other songs were experimenting with my anger, like “I Don’t Belong to You.” “Undercover” is a vulnerable confession about not wanting to hide who I am anymore. “Call of the WIld” is a very personal song about my fears of needing to leave my lover for a bigger calling. All in all, these are songs about a woman who is done people pleasing and role-playing. This is her moment to declare boundaries, find her voice, and reunite with her wild freedom.
What’s been the biggest surprise or highlight of your career to date?
One of the biggest surprises was singing with Yoko Ono on stage during the 2018 Women’s March in NYC. I was just about to get up on stage to sing, and the protest organizers (who are so amazing, btw) asked me if “I’d be okay with” Yoko Ono being onstage with me, holding a sign that says “Peace is Power.” I remember laughing when they asked me if I’d be “okay” with it. Are you kidding me?! It’s the brave and bold Yoko Ono!! Of course!
One of the biggest highlights of my career so far was singing onstage at The ESPYS, when over 100 survivors of the Larry Nassar case walked onstage to accept the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage. They used “Quiet” in the video to tell their story to the world, and as a songwriter, I couldn’t have been more proud to see my own words of survival be a part of other survivors’ stories.
When you hit a bump or hurdle in your career, how do you find new roads + switch gears to find success?
My mother taught me to be generous. My father taught me to never blame others. I taught myself to take big risks, and trust in my vision. I also believe that we are exactly where we need to be, because there’s either a lesson we haven’t learned yet, or there’s a test being given to us to see how much we truly want something. I find that a lot of people get discouraged too easily. I am abnormally patient, and am very obsessed with self-help books, etc., so this combination makes for a good combination for pursuing an arduous industry like that of music.
When I’m at a bump or hurdle, I like to take a look at my own actions. I like to hold myself accountable. Sometimes I can be too hard on myself, but I do think this intense passion to be better is the reason why I am here.
I also like to take time to myself, opt no for social hangs, and really journal out my thoughts. I like to also write music during these times to comfort myself. I also let myself do nothing, and to rest, as well, because sometimes we get into bumps in the road because we are burnt out or losing perspective.
I also like to turn to my village. I have consciously built a village of mentors around me who are honest with me, inspire me, challenge me, and who I love to just hang out with on down time. I found these mentors by offering my time and energy to “intern” for most of them for free. Over time, we’ve become close. I turn to my village of amazing leaders for advice.
If I am feeling like the energy is stale in my world, I like to open and challenge my ways of thinking by taking different types of people out for coffee or dinner, and asking them about their views on the world, and their dreams. I ask how I can help them accomplish them. Helping others can energize and inspire me, while also reminding me that I am just one drop in the ocean, and that it’s good to not always take myself too seriously.
I encourage women who are fighting for change to spend more energy working towards a vision they believe in, rather than fighting against a vision that they disagree with.
What would you say to women who, too, are fighting for change—but are just plain exhausted by what’s happening in politics?
From these past couple of years of observation, I have noticed that activism can be generally divided into two different types: reactive activism, and proactive activism. I have decided that I will spend 15% of my time on reactive activism, where I am reacting and dissenting the things that I don’t like seeing from my government officials, or from the people in my own community. The other 85% of my time I will spend doing PROACTIVE activism, where I have set out a long-term goal for what I want to help change in the world, and then commit to that path. For example, if we look at the people behind the pro-life movement, we can see that, even if we disagree, they have been relentless. They have been working towards their vision of abolishing abortions for years. They have stayed dedicated to a long term strategy. Even though I am pro-choice, I must respect that type of diligence.
So, I encourage women who are fighting for change to spend more energy working towards a vision they believe in, rather than fighting against a vision that they disagree with. We must learn to articulate the world we want to see, and work towards it. For me, I will be focusing on creating my long-term social activism plan, so that I can be confident that I am putting my energy towards something that will make a longstanding impact.
Which women in your industry do you look up to most? Why?
I look up to the women in the industry who are holding themselves accountable to build as much skill to empower themselves, and then to empower other women around them. I think it’s really important for us to lift each other up as we navigate a male dominated industry. Right now, one in 50 producers of the top songs are female. I admire the women who are building community to help create the leaders of the musical madame movement.
What keeps you up at night?
Oh, this is a great question. I sometimes can’t sleep because I am thinking about all the storytelling that I want to continue doing in order to help break stereotypes, and bridge people together. I think about the people who are so hurt that they turn to hate, and I wonder about their childhoods, and their upbringings. I wonder if their hate could be cured and turned around. I also stay up thinking about people who are living life silenced by oppression. I think about how privileged I am to be able to express my opinions. I feel pain when I think about how some women don’t have that luxury. I think about how kids in poor areas don’t have music programs in their schools. I think about kids who haven’t seen the ocean with their own two eyes. Oof. There’s so much.
What are you most excited for in 2019?
I am most excited to release new music, and to find new ways to connect with my audience. I am a bit of an aloof human being who likes time away from social media, so I am trying to find creative ways to find joy in communicating through technological platforms. I also am relieved that music still has an old school impact on the hearts of listeners, so the idea of releasing new music to reach my people is SUPER exciting. I have spent the past year experimenting with different sonics to find who I truly am, beyond “Quiet”. I wrote 42 songs last year, and by song 39 I found the heartbeat of my next sonic phase. I have come up with some tracks that I am so proud of, yet also nervous to release, and I think that’s a good sign, because that means the songs are so honest that I feel naked by releasing them.
Photo Credit: Jen Rosenstein
VIEW THE FULL CREATE & CULTIVATE 100 MUSIC LIST HERE.
Create & Cultivate 100: Music: Lola Langusta
“The opportunity to play music and tell stories through sound is such a gift which has in turn enabled me the freedom to create my own world.”
Lola Langusta didn’t relate to any of the media she saw in the world of weed—so she built her own agency.
Stoned Fox, Lola’s marketing agency, aims to bring a modern, story-based touch to cannabis media, advertising, and packaging. She’s making weed more relatable, all on top of her own career as a successful DJ and producer (she spins regularly at Versace parties and Universal Music Group events).
Below, Lola talks dreams, intentions, and who she looks up to.
You’re the ultimate multi-hyphenate: a DJ, producer and creative director. What do you like about having your hands on so many projects?
I’ve been very grateful to have the opportunity to use my talents in many different outlets. I’m a very passionate and determined person by nature so when opportunities present themselves I’m always up for the challenge if it is a representation of my standards and ethics of course. As Daniel Day-Lewis explained perfectly, “The responsibility of a creative life is both a curse and a blessing. You can never separate them until the day you die.”
Your client list is impressive and includes CFDA, Google, Vogue, and Sundance. What’s a dream client you’d love to work with?
Dreaming of working with Gucci for some time, and currently working on a dream concept shoot/short film. If you build it they will come, right? It would also be a dream to DJ more festivals and If I get the opportunity to act again, I wouldn’t hate to act in a Marvel film.
Tell us a little about Stoned Fox, your digital agency. How and why did you create an agency around cannabis marketing?
Stoned Fox is a creative media agency that unapologetically fuses cannabis with lifestyle, fashion, music, and culture, creating a collective space for the novice and curious alike and taking on an honest and authentic approach.
My partner and I were discussing how we didn’t identify with any cannabis media or content that was currently out there and felt it was not representational of a modern-day consumer. With the buzz of cannabis becoming legal, it felt like a beautiful gift and opportunity to put our talents to use in building a company that could be apart of a major conscious shift, so we joined the revolution. Since then we have kept our ears to the ground and our eyes focused on creating our own vision and voice. I do believe that we have been given a very special opportunity and cannabis/hemp has the ability to rebuild our world on a economical, social and ethical level.
What’s been the biggest surprise or highlight of your career to date?
I had the pleasure of making a cameo in an HBO series making its second season appearance in February and that’s all I can say.
If you could give advice to young women just getting started in their careers, what would it be?
Set clear intentions; Do it for the love not for the money (the money will come); Don’t get distracted by what others are doing, create your own voice and vision; Except that life is going to test you, if you treat each obstacle like a video game, it’s nothing more than a monster trying to distract you from reaching your castle, don't let it defeat you and lastly read Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself” by Dr. Joe Dispenza.
What do you hope your listeners take away from your work?
I just want people to leave feeling uplifted and inspired in some way and if the place calls for it, hopefully they leave dripping in sweat.
The opportunity to play music and tell stories through sound is such a gift which has in turn enabled me the freedom to create my own world.
Which women in your industry do you look up to most? Why?
Since starting Stoned Fox, I've been working more in directing, film production and editing and have been creatively turned on by these true visionaries.
Artist/photographer/director - Nadia Lee Cohen
Photographer/director - Alexa Kinigopoulos
Beauty photographer - Jamie Nelson
What about your job makes you feel the most fulfilled?
The opportunity to play music and tell stories through sound is such a gift which has in turn enabled me the freedom to create my own world. It’s always been a dream to work as a fashion editor since I was a little girl, I just never thought it would be for my own company. It's not been easy but life has humbly led me here and I wouldn't have it any other way.
When you hit a bump or hurdle in your career, how do you find new roads + switch gears to find success?
Sometimes I just disconnect and give myself time to relax. Worrying gets you nowhere and we are so programmed to be hard on ourselves and start judging where we are at in our life and where we are supposed to be. I learn to reimagine a little clearer what it is I want my life to look and feel like and I put my intention and focus in that direction.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
“A new personality produces a new personal reality.”
VIEW THE FULL CREATE & CULTIVATE 100 MUSIC LIST HERE.
Create & Cultivate 100: Music: Kiana Ledé
“Don’t let society rush you.”
Kiana Ledé is the ultimate multi-hyphenate.
A singer, an actor, and a mental health advocate, Kiana rose to fame after posting covers of hits like Drake’s Hotline Bling on YouTube. But after hearing the Republic Records signee’s own music, you’ll forget all about the covers.
The songstress’ top hit, EX (with more than 6 million plays on Spotify), breaks the mold of typical breakup ballads—heartfelt, raw, and vulnerable, Kiana croons, “I don’t gotta be in love with you to love you; don’t treat me like your ex.”
That realness is innate to how Kiana communicates, inside and outside the recording studio. She’s open about her struggles with depression and anxiety and is an advocate for therapy and meditation, and she hopes her music offers solace to those struggling with mental health. This 21 year old is wise beyond her years, and we can’t wait to share what she has to say.
You’re both a singer and an actor. What do you like most about each career?
I like that each different artistic path informs the other. I like being able to write my own thoughts in a song and then be able to emote them musically but I also love being given the script and finding my own interpretation of the words. They are very different but each informs the other.
Watch Kiana in our interview with her behind-the-scenes at our Create & Cultivate 100 photoshoot
What about your job makes you feel the most fulfilled?
Connecting with people who might have found some strength in my music or in the reflection of a character I am portraying and even finding myself in my own characters strengths and weaknesses. I get to be artistic and honest all the time!
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Read any Rupi Kaur book. That is advice from experience transformed into poetry and it is my guide to being a young brown girl in this world.
What guidance would you give to women who are hungry to chase their dreams but just starting out in their careers?
Don’t let society or the pressure of history rush you. You aren’t here to fit into any historical box that women are supposed to be in. So don’t let anyone rush you into fitting into one. Take your time. Build your career at YOUR pace cuz you a boss!
You’ve archived a lot of the YouTube cover songs that helped you rise to fame. Why don’t you want them on your channel anymore?
I felt like it was time to put them to bed. The covers were a vehicle. I am so grateful for them and enjoyed singing them but I enjoy singing my own songs more ;)
If you had to choose another career, what would it be?
My real passion is helping people and more specifically, young women, so I would probably be a social worker or a therapist that specializes in helping young women.
You made a conscious effort to feature people of color in your music video for Fairplay. Can you speak to the importance of inclusion in Hollywood?
Of course it’s important to have representation in Hollywood, for people of every color and culture to see people that look like them. However, it’s much bigger than Hollywood. Let’s just look at the idea of inclusion on a global level. Hollywood isn’t even all that important in the grand scheme of things. Black girls should see black female lawyers. Hispanic girls should see Hispanic female doctors. That’s what is going to change the world. So what I’m doing is actually on very small scale but I choose to empower myself by empowering others. That’s the most inclusive mind-set one can have. By including others, I also include myself!
Black girls should see black female lawyers. Hispanic girls should see Hispanic female doctors. That’s what is going to change the world.
When you hit a bump or hurdle in your career, how do you find a new road + switch gears to find success?
That really is hard. Sometimes you have to reset and restart. In the end, even if I reach out to my team or my mother for some help...it all comes back to me. New roads must be discovered on a deeply personal level, so while I certainly use my incredible and resourceful family/team, it all lands back on me to pick up and start again. But that is the most powerful feeling when you get it right.
Whose career really inspires you? Why?
One of my role models is Rihanna because she started out as a girl from a small island and grew into one of the bossest women we’ve ever seen. She is more than just an artist. She helps women by setting an example of being unapologetically herself and it paying off. She does not conform. What an icon.
What are you most excited for in 2019?
I can’t wait to release my next project. That’s coming soon, too! New stories, new songs to share. Also, I’m hitting the road with Ella Mai on her US debut tour. It’s going to be amazing!
Photography by Annie McElwain Photography
Photoshoot skincare provided by Dermalogica
VIEW THE FULL CREATE & CULTIVATE 100 MUSIC LIST HERE.
Create & Cultivate 100: Music: BOSCO
“There’s no right or wrong way to achieve success.”
In her senior year of college, with just two semesters of her fashion design program at the Savannah College of Art and Design, BOSCO decided to call it quits on college in the name of music.
She never looked back.
Since her decision seven years ago, BOSCO’s career has taken off. In 2013, she was signed to Fool’s Gold Records (alongside the likes of Kid Cudi). Within months, she’d taken hold in the Atlanta scene, combining her love of style with multimedia art and music. Fast-forward five years and her latest EP, b., has launched her onto the proverbial main stage. She hit more than a million streams last year...and she’s just getting started. Read on to hear BOSCO’s take on style, success, and inspiration.
You left fashion school just two semesters before graduation. Was it difficult to make that decision, and how has your education translated into your work as a musician?
It was very challenging but I knew something inside of me was calling for a bigger purpose. I was exhausted with school and keeping up with the institutional practices/studies of what people thought “Fashion” was. For me personally, fashion is about style. You can teach the foundation of it (sewing, pattern and draft making) but you can’t teach taste or style. It’s something that comes from within, it’s your individual language. It’s the way you communicate to people before you utter your first word before you meet someone. I’ve learned so much along the way in regards to fashion, how it translates into my music career, and how things are paired and layered together. I’ve used these skills to help with my releases by working closely with designers from various mediums. It’s a language that has gotten me to where I am as I am well-versed in the arts as well as fashion.
You deleted every photo on your Instagram prior to your latest EP, b. Are visuals as important to your brand as the music?
I wanted people to focus on the body of work which best represented who I am and where I want to go at the moment. As you know, we live in a “fly by night” type of culture where we are constantly fighting to be heard or have our work surpass a shelf life longer than two weeks. It’s crazy to me how much society consumes without fully digesting an artist’s work and discovering new things within it. It’s like reading a book and discovering new things each time. I try to have multiple ways for the consumer to understand my vision by providing multimedia components to my work. Not only do you get the music but you are also apart of the journey whether it’s through gifs, animations, lookbook, videos, or documentaries. I try to cover all bases because people process information differently and we as artists have to be sensitive to different comprehension styles and connectability.
If you could give advice to young women just getting started in their careers, what would it be?
There’s no right or wrong way to achieve success. Surround yourself with people who are going to nurture your gifts and be transparent about your growth and how to improve. “Yes” men will be the death of your career. Find balance when you feel uninspired or depleted. Taking breaks to refocus is okay! Remain a student and don’t be afraid to ask for help. READ AND RESEARCH!
What’s the biggest source of inspiration for your music?
Pain.
What’s been the biggest surprise or highlight of your career to date?
That I achieved 1 million streams in 2018.
What do you hope your listeners take away from your work?
You can do anything you want to do and it’s OK to be vulnerable.
There’s no right or wrong way to achieve success.
Which women in your industry do you look up to most? Why?
Rihanna - She’s a boss, down-to-earth, loves family and is beautiful inside and out. I love her business model because music is the vehicle for everything she’s doing in fashion and beauty. She knows how to sell herself and is unapologetically her at all times and we love her for it.
Issa Rae - She puts on her friends and up-and-coming artists through her show. Her sensibility to the culture and current things that we all are dealing with are relatable. She represents the modern day renaissance woman in every way. She embraces her natural beauty and encourages other woman to do the same.
Oprah - I mean, do I really have to say it? It’s OPRAH!!!!!
Michelle Obama - She embodies everything I strive to be and more. Her love for her family and our culture will forever be engraved in our hearts. What she represents for black women is huge and how she’s able to constantly remind us of who we are and why we are striving to continuously become “me” is incredible.
What about your job makes you feel the most fulfilled?
When I’m performing I feel the most free and the most at home by connecting with my fans.
When you hit a bump or hurdle in your career, how do you find new roads + switch gears to find success?
I like to go between design and music which gives me a new perspective when I get exhausted with one medium. I try to look at the positive which is not always easy to do so having a support system and tribe is important. Looking at documentaries is also a great way to stay inspired and motivated.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Keep your eyes on your own journey.
Photo Credit: Cameron Kirkland
VIEW THE FULL CREATE & CULTIVATE 100 MUSIC LIST HERE.
Create & Cultivate 100: Music: Chloe Flower
“You are bigger than social media. What you accomplish in real life is far more valuable and real.”
Not many classically-trained pianists play Beethoven and hip-hop covers in the same hour. But most pianists aren’t Chloe Flower.
Chloe’s career has been anything but traditional. She’s been featured on rapper NAS’ “A Queen Story,” Celine Dion’s “Lullaby,” and on Timbaland Jay-Z, and Drake’s, “Know Bout Me.” She recently opened and closed for Mike Epps’ Netflix special, breaking barriers that say classical musicians are “too stuffy” to exist in the same arena as comedy.
On top of her impressive music resume, Chloe is also an activist (in 2013, she won the Creative Coalition Award for Outstanding Achievement in the fight against human trafficking), founder of detox drink, and an investor. Below, she tells us what she loves most about her work in music, business, and philanthropy.
You’re a pianist and composer, but also an activist, founder of Modern Alkeme, and an investor in Munchery. Have you always been interested in both music and business, and how did you work your way into each?
Yes, I have always been interested in business. My entire family is made up of entrepreneurs and business owners, and because of that, I appreciated the value of being your own boss and business creativity/freedom. And like the work I do in music, whether it be music therapy or music education, modern alkeme & Munchery are brands that promote health and wellness, just in a different way. So I feel like the diversity in my work life all still falls under one umbrella: healing and wellness.
You’re a concert pianist who’s sold out concerts at Walt Disney Hall—but you also love playing covers of current hip-hop songs. Tell us a bit about what it’s like to be a classical pianist in the age of Instagram and Spotify.
I feel so grateful to have access to platforms like Instagram and Spotify because it allows me to release music and content without relying on anyone. Before social media, artists had to rely on labels to release music. Now, anyone can upload music and artwork through distribution platforms like tunecore, YouTube, etc. For classical musicians in particular, it also gives us the ability to try new things with our music that we wouldn’t necessarily release in an album, like covers and mashups. And We can also take chances in our performances and get immediate feedback, this is so different than any other time in history! I can incorporate visual elements like fashion into my videos and do it from my living room! I am giving my followers a concert like experience with just my iPhone and a tripod! The accessibility is incredible!
What’s the biggest source of inspiration for your music?
Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds has had such a huge impact on my music, not just what you hear but also the way I write and the technology I use to create. Before I signed with him, I was just using my acoustic piano and writing my music down on sheets of paper- old school style. But after working with Kenny, I was exposed to computer programs like Logic and Pro Tools. This completely changed my productivity and as a result, my productivity and what I was able to create increased exponentially. I found myself watching YouTube tutorials on “how to use Logic, “ and “How to use pro tools” for hours trying to learn as quickly as possible. That coupled with watching our genius engineer/producer Paul Boutin, made me proficient in the music software and soon my nickname became “Chlo-tools” in the studio!
If you could give advice to young women just getting started in their careers, what would it be?
Look ahead, not behind or beside you. With Instagram and other social media sites, it can become easy to compare yourself to other profiles. This is a distraction. Don’t slow yourself down by always looking at what everyone else is doing. Stay focused on your goals, write them down, and try your best to achieve them. Social media is just one aspect of your life, I see a lot of young girls making it the most important. It’s not, you are bigger than social media. What you accomplish in real life is far more valuable and real.
What’s been the biggest surprise or highlight of your career to date?
Signing with Sony Masterworks.
What do you hope your listeners take away from your work?
I hope to inspire my listeners and simply make them feel happiness. I think we need positivity now more than ever before. Music therapy is a true form of medication, but without any negative side effects. I always joke that I wish doctors would also prescribe a song or applied music lesson in addition to or even in place of prescription drugs.
Which women in your industry do you look up to most? Why?
I really look up to my mother. She has always been the example of integrity and nobility. My mother taught me the value of hard work, discipline, but that no goal should be achieved without integrity. I honestly think she is a superhero. I haven’t met a smarter, wiser, or better human than her. She also always promoted natural health over prescription drugs, so as a child, I always ate the most natural foods and tried holistic remedies before pills. She is also an amazing painter too and started her art career in her 40s, and became one of the best students at the Maryland institute college of Art, all while raising two girls. My mother always supported a career in the arts, and never forced me into any one direction. For her generation and culture, she was extremely open minded. I would not be who I am today without her guidance. Even today, I constantly called her to ask her opinion on so many different things. She’s like Astral (from Crazy Rich Asians) meets Yoda, I swear!
You are bigger than social media. What you accomplish in real life is far more valuable and real.
What about your job makes you feel the most fulfilled?
Making people happy and being a positive influence on young kids. Whenever I see or hear about kids wanting to learn an instrument because of me, I can’t tell you how rewarding that is. Because I believe music education is as important in development as maths and sciences and should be part of every core curriculum from kindergarten to college.
When you hit a bump or hurdle in your career, how do you find new roads + switch gears to find success?
When I hit a bump, which I often do, I try to go over it. If I can’t do that, I then explore new ideas by reading, watching relevant documentaries, or even taking walks. I get a lot of utility and inspiration from the outside world, and there’s no better place to see different cultures and gather new ideas than NYC.
I’m definitely not afraid of failure, so the idea is to try new things and don’t beat yourself up if it doesn’t go exactly how you expect. All roads lead to the same place, sometimes we just take the scenic route!
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
There have been many times where I was really nervous before a performance. So naturally, I called my dear friend and partner in music therapy, neurologist Rudy Tanzi. Do you know what he told me? “Be grateful, you’re providing a service.” In my line of work, it’s easy to become narcissistic and think only about yourself. But that isn’t what music is about is it! This is an extremely important lesson because it helps remove the element of fear and replaces it with gratitude. That energy can change the trajectory of my concert and how the audience experiences my performance. It’s as much of a mental game as it technique and training.
VIEW THE FULL CREATE & CULTIVATE 100 MUSIC LIST HERE.
Create & Cultivate 100: Music: Chloe x Halle
Chloe and Halle Bailey have accomplished more in two decades (they’re 20 and 18 years old, respectively) than many can hope to achieve in a lifetime. The inaugural signees to Beyoncé’s record label, Parkwood Entertainment, this R&B duo were nominated for two Grammys this year for their self-written debut album The Kids Are Alright—all on top of appearing as series regulars in black-ish spinoff grown-ish. Keep your eye on these starlet sisters this year, because they’re just getting started.
On writing and producing their own album…
Halle: Oh yes. Our parents always taught us from a young age that we can do anything we put our minds to and not to be afraid to dive in to do something that may not be considered things for little girls to be doing. My sister is so inspiring to me when she produces. And we write all of our songs from our living room. It’s fun for us. We also feel like this generation is on this wave of learning how to do things on our own and learning how to stand up for ourselves. It’s a big thing for us.
Chloe: I feel very fortunate because we’re given this incredible platform with Beyoncé and [her label] Parkwood, but we’re still able to use our voices and tell the story that we want to tell and create the music we want to create. Beyoncé has always encouraged us to trust our intuition. I’m so grateful because some artists are not able to do that, but we are and it means the world to us.
On the first time Beyoncé heard their album…
Chloe: She said she loved it! And I’m just so happy because if I know Beyoncé loved it, then that’s the only stamp of approval I need, except for my parents and little brother. It even made my heart warm when she said she loved the short film. We like making her proud.
On what inspired their work…
Halle: During the making of this album, we were just documenting our truest feelings, almost like a diary. We put our most sensitive feelings into these words... I’ve been writing down all those feelings that you have as a young girl turning into a young woman, the insecurities and learning how to love the highs of your life as well as the lows. I’ve been learning to accept that everything I have going on now is for a reason and that I’ll end up in the perfect place...in the future, when I’m 30, I can listen to these songs and remember exactly who I was at this age.
“ Beyoncé has always encouraged us to trust our intuition. I’m so grateful because some artists are not able to do that, but we are and it means the world to us.”
On getting to work on Beyoncé’s Lemonade...
Halle: We were very excited. We get there and we’re surrounded by all these beautiful, strong black women. It was such an impactful and wonderful scene to behold. We got a chance to hang out with Amandla [Stenberg], Zendaya and all the other beautiful women. It was just such a wonderful experience. We knew that we were going to be a part of something special just being in that setting, so that was very exciting.
On the best advice they’ve received…
Chloe: “One of the things [Beyoncé] says is to let the world catch up to you; don’t dumb down your art. As fans of hers and two young girls, hearing that from her was an ‘aha’ moment — and a confirmation that we were headed in the right direction.”
This interview has been edited and condensed from multiple sources (1, 2, 3).
Photos from Chloe x Halle’s https://www.instagram.com/chloexhalle/.
VIEW THE FULL CREATE & CULTIVATE 100 MUSIC LIST HERE.
Create & Cultivate 100: Music: Tori Kelly
“When I focus on the people around me and how they are doing, that’s when I'm the most fulfilled.”
When you rise to fame on American Idol, people pretty much expect you to stay in your pop star lane.
But not Tori Kelly. Released in September, her sophomore album Hiding Place is decidedly gospel. A collaboration with legend Kirk Franklin, the album felt like a natural next step to Tori, who grew up listening to gospel music and wanted to come into her own after her first album, a pop sensation that hit #2 on the Billboard 200.
That move took guts. But for Tori, it wasn’t a choice. She wanted to share her truth, even if it wasn’t Top 40-friendly. And that’s how she approaches everything in her career—with honesty, relatability, and the pursuit of fulfillment.
Read on for Tori’s take on following your passion full-force.
You debuted your first gospel album, Hiding Place, after your 2015 pop album reached #2 on the charts. What drove you to release a Christian music album?
Gospel music was always playing in my house as a kid and I really studied a lot of gospel singers growing up. It honestly just started out as a small idea, and when the opportunity came to work with the legendary Kirk Franklin, I knew it would be a special project.
Were you worried about how your fans would receive your new album?
I knew some people wouldn't understand it, but I wasn't worried. I hoped that my fans would at least feel encouragement and hope when they heard these songs. I wanted them to really see my heart and what I was passionate about.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
I've always gotten advice and encouragement from my parents. They have always pushed me to write and produce my own songs. They even got me my first guitar for Christmas one year. I think that really gave me the confidence to believe that I could do this thing on my own and even do shows with just me and a guitar.
What do you hope your fans and listeners feel when they listen to your music?
When people listen to my music I hope that they feel like they're not alone. Whether it’s a sad song or an uplifting song, I hope they feel like someone can relate to them, and that they are loved.
What advice would you give to young women who need courage to make a change or shift in their careers?
I would say to make sure you have a support system around you to push you and challenge you, but also to make sure you have a vision. Set long-term goals and short-term goals for yourself and take it step by step.
Which women in your industry do you look up to most? Why?
I honestly look up to the women on my team. They might not be front and center all the time, but they are the ones that make stuff happen. These confident women have so much drive and determination while also having a loving tenderness and care about them. I'm so blessed to work with the women on my team.
When I focus on the people around me and how they are doing, that’s when I'm the most fulfilled.
Where do you get your inspiration for your songs?
I have to write songs that I connect with somehow. I mostly write about my own life experiences, but occasionally I'll try to see life through the lens of someone else.
When you hit a bump or hurdle in your career, how do you find new roads + switch gears to find success?
I love this quote by C.S. Lewis: “The great thing, if one can, is to stop regarding all the unpleasant things as interruptions of one's 'own,' or 'real' life. The truth is of course that what one calls the interruptions are precisely one's real life—the life God is sending one day by day.”
Although it can be hard sometimes, I've tried to live like that. It's all about perspective. Something that seems like a "bump" in the road might actually be the very thing you needed.
What keeps you up at night?
Usually when I can't sleep it’s because I start getting creative super late or I'll get a song idea that I have to work out.
What about your job makes you feel the most fulfilled?
I am so thankful that I get to call this music thing a career. It's still wild to me. But I am the most fulfilled when I don't make it all about me. It’s the best feeling when someone tells me how one of my songs affected them or got them through a hard situation. When I focus on the people around me and how they are doing, that’s when I'm the most fulfilled. Life is such a gift, and I believe no matter what your job is or how successful you are, loving people is the most important thing.
VIEW THE FULL CREATE & CULTIVATE 100 MUSIC LIST HERE.
Create & Cultivate 100: Music: Hayley Kiyoko
“I think [queer artists are] what’s giving people encouragement to really be more comfortable with themselves.”
Her fans call her “Lesbian Jesus,” but you can call her Hayley.
The winner of Billboard Rising Star and MTV’s Push Artist of the Year awards, Hayley doesn’t see her work as an “agenda”—she’s just being herself, and her listeners are here for it. The Girls Like Girls singer is normalizing what’s, well, normal, and she’s the refreshing dose of self-worth that music and media needs in 2019.
Read on for Hayley’s thoughts on confidence and why she owes her fans her career.
On teaching self-love…
"I think it’s just important for people to lead by example. My motto is to help people love themselves sooner. I can’t teach them how to do that. They have to figure that out on their own—that’s their journey."
On finding her voice…
“I was like, 'Holy shit, I don’t have a choice. This is something that I have to do because no one else is doing it. It forced me to step into my own as an artist. And this is something I’ve always wanted to do—be loud and sing about sexy girls."
On normalizing all forms of love...
"I think [queer artists are] what’s giving people encouragement to really be more comfortable with themselves. That’s how life is. If you see two girls falling in love and normalizing that, then [people] can go, 'I can fall in love, too. I can be that person. I can look like that. I can get a girl that looks like that.' If they see that, then they can believe it. It’s just how we are."
On the pressure of being the Lesbian Jesus…
“To be able to share [my work] with other people is such a beautiful thing. I never really had that community growing up. I really just want to continue to focus on the art. I think that's my responsibility and that's where the pressure is: constantly putting out good work and being truthful and honest with everyone.”
“I think [queer artists are] what’s giving people encouragement to really be more comfortable with themselves. That’s how life is.”
On how her fans have shaped her career…
“My fans have always been in the forefront, really pushing and climbing with me. I've been unsigned most of my career and they’re the reason why I got signed. They’re the reason why I was able to do my own headlining tour. No one else would take me on tour to open for them. We've really created our own opportunities and platform, so it's my job to see it through and be a good representation.”
This interview has been edited and condensed from multiple sources (1, 2, 3).
Photo Credit: Andrew Boyle
Photos from Hayley Kiyoko’s Instagram.
VIEW THE FULL CREATE & CULTIVATE 100 MUSIC LIST HERE.
Create & Cultivate 100: Music: Ella Vos
“It was liberating to take control and know that it was up to me to make it happen.“
In a world where “the dream” is being signed by a major label, Ella Vos bucks tradition. When she walked into meetings with labels to find a major lack of female executives, she was inspired to take a risk and strike out on her own.
It’s safe to say the risk of going independent paid off: Ella’s debut album was an instant hit—she’s played big festivals, sold out shows, and had her music featured on Grey’s Anatomy, Life of Kylie, and The Originals. But amidst her rise to fame, Ella wants us to know she’s still a real person. She started her journey in music while pregnant with her only son, and she wrote her hit song White Noise about her struggle with postpartum depression. The song, of course, went viral, but Ella is humble: When someone likes her music, she says, it’s “the best feeling ever.”
This breakout star has done so much in her short musical career, but talking to her gives you the feeling that this is just the beginning. We can’t wait to see what’s next for Ella Vos.
You released your debut album, Words I Never Said, independent of a label. Why did you choose to go solo?
I could write an essay on the reasons I didn’t release my album with a label, but the short answer is that it just didn’t feel right. I had several meetings that left me feeling disappointed in the absence of women at the executive level in the music industry; normally I would have thought “That’s just the way things are,” but instead it inspired me to do something different. I definitely went into this career thinking I would “need” a label to have any type of success. That way of thinking was a big reason why I decided to remain independent—to prove, even just to myself, that there is not one way or path to anything in life. It was liberating to take control and know that it was up to me to make it happen.
What has been your biggest opportunity or biggest challenge?
My biggest challenge has been viewing my career as a business, and that I am the boss. It’s not instinctual as an artist to think that way—at least, not for me. I’ve had to really push myself to speak up for what I want, how I want to do things, and what my goals are, and not what I think someone else thinks my goals should be.
Vulnerability and honesty shine through your lyrics. What message do you want to spread to women through your music?
I hope to spread to everyone, especially women, that it’s okay to be vulnerable. It’s okay to be wherever you are emotionally, or physically, whether you’re happy or not. And it’s important to talk about it. I think for years I feared showing my feminine side for risk of appearing “less than”— less capable, less trustworthy, less attractive, less stable, etc. But that’s a very damaging and dangerous way of thinking that I’ve been working on changing in myself and hope to inspire others to do as well.
What’s your songwriting process?
I almost always start with a melody over a single instrument, either piano or guitar. I’ll mumble out words in the melody that become building blocks to write the lyrics. Sometimes, not all the time, a word will pop out that inspires the rest of the song. Other times it takes days of writing and journaling and brainstorming to find what the song is about. Sometimes I don’t really know what the song is actually about until I’ve written and recorded it. I like to really “brew” in my lyrics, working on them over the course of days, changing little words here and there. I hate writing lyrics in front of other writers or producers; I get really self-conscious, so I usually write lyrics alone at home in my bedroom.
Whose career really inspires you?
So many of the up and coming female artists right now are SO inspiring to me—like Maggie Rogers, Billie Eilish, Bishop Briggs, Elohim, Verité, Jessie Reyez… the list goes on. Every one really seems like they’re doing it their own way and loving it, and it makes me really excited for where music is headed.
You’ve been open about your battle with postpartum depression after your son was born. How was music a source of comfort for you during that time?
Music has always been a source of comfort, starting with playing the piano when I was young—it was really the first way I learned to express myself. But I didn’t realize how important a tool it could be until I was dealing with postpartum depression—how it could help not only to release emotions, but to also make sense of things and gain confidence to speak up about it.
It was liberating to take control and know that it was up to me to make it happen.
What’s been the biggest surprise or highlight of your career to date?
I’m constantly surprised at the consistency of everything; that even when I couldn’t release music for a year, that people still continue to listen and share and follow. Also, sometimes, I’m just shocked that anyone likes my music at all, which I know is silly, but it’s an honest feeling. You spend all this time making art, alone, caring for it like a little baby, and then you throw it out into the world not knowing what will happen to it—and any time someone grabs onto it and says “i like this!” it feels like the biggest accomplishment ever.
When you hit a bump or hurdle in your career, how do you find a new road + switch gears to find success?
Success is a word I’ve been challenged to redefine for myself constantly. I’ve hit some major bumps—one of the biggest was being diagnosed with cancer while on tour this past year. It was easy to feel like my year career-wise was going to be a failure, but instead I just leaned really hard into what I knew I could accomplish and what I thought would make me happy, letting the less important pieces slip away.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Believe in yourself and others will follow.
What’s next for you?
I’m releasing my EP Watch & Wait in January and heading off on a US headline tour end of March. I’ve also been directing my own music videos recently and hope to do quite a few more!
Photography by Annie McElwain Photography
Photoshoot skincare provided by Dermalogica
