Art & Life with Mama Cleo

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mama Cleo.

Mama, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
I am a music artist originally from New York City. I am a proud DTLA person now. I went to the Fame! high school (LaGuardia) in NYC where I studied opera and musical theater. Growing up in New York, I became fascinated by theater, art, culture, physicality, and mental health, which all play a huge role in inspiring my music. I love to observe and write songs about the idiosyncrasies of life.

Most of my music is electro-pop, funk, and jazz-inspired, and I am documenting my journey as an artist on my Instagram and YouTube vlog. I think it’s important for artists to share their process, the crazy ups and downs of growth, and their normal lives. Some of my videos have featured me being interviewed on the radio for the first time, getting scammed by someone claiming to be Jay Z’s friend, and writing and producing a song. My French bulldog Meatball plays a huge role in my social presence.

I chose to become “Mama Cleo” because “Mama” – short for mother – embodies me well. I am a motherly person, and I believe society needs strong caring figures – plus, who is stronger than a mother who gives life? “Cleo” is short for Cleopatra, the empress of Egypt. She was a total badass. Mama Cleo is on a mission to make the world dance, question and change culture, and encourage her “babies” to become the weirdest and best versions of themselves.

Can you give our readers some background on your art?
I make electronic music that is soulful and funky. Although music and singing are my primary mediums of expression, I like to think of myself as a music artist and cultural icon in the making instead of just a singer or musician. Visuals, lyrics, and the meaning of my songs play as big of a role as the actual melody does to me. A lot of my songs are very upbeat and catchy, but they have a slightly dark tone that’s makes you question the story behind the music. I want to encourage people to question society, live their lives fully, and have a good time in the process.

For example, my song “Shop,” which has had a lot of success in Europe and on in-store radios around the world, is about going on a reckless shopping spree. While the song is really fun and dance-y, it has dark undertones. The purpose is to say that even though shopping and not caring about the debt collecting man is a blast, you are probably coping with something more serious if you need new shoes to make you happy. I know from personal experience. 😉

What would you recommend to an artist new to the city, or to art, in terms of meeting and connecting with other artists and creatives?
I would say to listen to other people’s music and engage with their art, and most importantly, reach out!!! I’ve made so many incredibly talented and supportive artistic friends around the world and in LA just by reaching out to people I think are amazing on Instagram and other social channels and responding to those who try to contact me. A little bit of confidence and effort goes a long way! I’ve met many of my current collaborators and friends this way.

What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
I document my everyday life and journey as an artist on my Instagram page:
https://www.instagram.com/iammamacleo/ and YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCvcUpUgc-udW6MFQfXOdbQ.

I really want people to share in my journey as I grow from starting my career into new opportunities and experiences, so I’d love to meet anyone who wants to chat via Instagram or YouTube! My music is also available on Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon, Deezer, Tidal, Napster, and more. I also post updates about all of my experiences on my website at mamacleo.com. You can find fun Mama Cleo merch at shop.mamacleo.com.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.mamacleo.com
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iammamacleo/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iammamacleo/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/iammamacleo
• Other: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCvcUpUgc-udW6MFQfXOdbQ

Image Credit:
Justin Rashidi at www.seedx.us

Getting in touch: VoyageLA 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.