Today we’d like to introduce you to Kendra Erika.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I grew up knowing I always wanted to do something within the artistic, creative sphere. However, the one thing that is sort of unbeknownst and kind of hilariously interesting is that I was tone deaf. My parents and their friends had to endure a confident performance of noise and warble at every dinner party they threw lol. Enough was enough, and that’s when I was pointed in the right direction by getting a classical coach to lay down the groundwork as far as real technique goes. I then got more involved in local theatre and performing competitions, which I uncannily won the first year by singing “Time to Say Goodbye” by Andrea Bocelli. Very funny to think considering where I came from vocally. Throughout my high school, college, and post-college time, I performed at local restaurants and lounges, and around the same time, I began writing my own music with producers in Miami. From then until now, my sound has evolved.
I’ve had the pleasure of opening up for the likes of acts like Cody Simpson, Jason Derulo, Deborah Cox, Aquaria, and there’s more to come.
Two years ago, I was introduced to Damon Sharpe in LA, and now I am humbled to say that we’ve managed to create some pretty cool 4 Top Ten Billboard magic. Along with the myriad of DJs who have been involved in the success of each song’s climb.
I also did another fantastic collaboration with Manny Mijares and Ron Reeser called “Lay It On Me,” which has now teamed up with Global Records to send some pretty great social redeeming vibes worldwide.
Please tell us about your art.
I’ve always said that if you’re going to create a figure for yourself, there’s a responsibility in that. Giving back to the world around you.
I’m a recording artist by title, but more so a writer by nature. I write everything I record: lyrics and melody.
Everything that I write has some lyrical thoughtfulness to it. Every word is thought out. Music has a way to really impact allow people to expand, and the messaging does matter. So, knowingly taking that into account, is why I love creating socially redeeming songs. Ones that genuinely facilitate a clear feeling, and not just an “I guess” kind of feeling. Music of today, I feel, needs that poeticism brought back into its position and delivery. I am thankful to be a part of moving it towards that direction.
Given everything that is going on in the world today, do you think the role of artists has changed? How do local, national or international events and issues affect your art?
It definitely has affected the way how I want to present myself. A lot of artists can attest to this I believe. However, in order to make progress, venturing and exploring the uncharted territories, and not following the trends and the strength in numbers game can surely set progress in motion for the world around us. I’ve learned vicariously from those before me to not take sides and to not become bitter while doing so. Trends are for the anxious. Originality is for the fearless.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
Instagram @kendraerikamusic
Facebook.com/KendraErikaMusic
Twitter @Kendra_Erika
Spotify
Apple Music
Pandora
BeatPort
Contact Info:
- Website: www.kendraerika.com
- Instagram: @kendraerikamusic
- Facebook: Facebook.com/KendraErikaMusic
- Twitter: Twitter.com/Kendra_Erika
Image Credit:
Mathilde Bresson
Rafael Paivaus
Getting in touch: VoyageMIA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
