Check Out Kayla Starr’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kayla Starr.

Hi Kayla, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Hi my name is Kayla Starr and I’m a singer-songwriter from Los Angeles, CA. From my understanding, I’ve been singing since I could talk. My parents took me to church three times a week and I would sing in the choir with my friends. At the age of seven, I started singing classical music in elementary. I kept singing in different choirs till I graduated high school including jazz, concert, chorale, chamber and more. My career took off in college at Musician Institute. I was able to advance my skill and actually get background vocal jobs in the industry. I auditioned and practiced every single day and started landing major gigs.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The music industry is not a smooth road at all. It’s actually a winding road with a lot of construction along the way, and sometimes it’s closed off. With that being said you have to stay focused and remember there’s always a detour that will get you to your destination. I’ve had so many ups and downs in this industry but keep going because I truly love what I do. I’ve landed major gigs and have gotten cut for speaking up against racial discrimination, both times. They always say it’s a budget cut to protect themselves. I played in a metal band once and a misogynistic male music director would make inappropriate comments towards me during rehearsals, in front of everyone. Sometimes I’m the only black person on the tour, that’s including management, cast, and crew. I know there’s a lot of singers and musicians that have gone through similar situations, and it can be intimidating. It can mess with you mentally and try to knock you off course. Fortunately, my mom raised a rock, so I always choose to stay strong because I love to perform and I do it for me. I do it to connect with people and that’s something no one can take away. Music is universal, and although the industry can be harsh, music itself always brings us together.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am an artist and a professional background vocalist. I’ve worked with many major artists including, Macy Gray, Kanye West, MARINA, Iggy Azalea, ODESZA, Sabrina Carpenter, Bea Miller and more. As an artist, I’ve released two eps, “Salutation” and “Exception to the Rule.” Recently I dropped a single called “Design” available on all streaming platforms. Go listen to that right now! I’m extremely proud of my resume and how musically diverse it is. I’ve always had my own style and consider myself to be a very eclectic artist. I love to study different kinds of music and see how I can blend it into a more modern wave. I’m always experimenting with interesting sounds and practicing new techniques and it’s helped me develop into the artist I am today. My favorite part about my voice is my tone. When you hear my tone it’s very distinctive and you will immediately know it’s me. I don’t have to be the loudest, I don’t have to be the highest, my tone cuts through no matter what.

Can you share something surprising about yourself?
I am extremely camera-shy. I’ve been dealing with body and face dysmorphia for a while now and I get very uncomfortable when there’s a camera around. I do it anyways because I know it’s a part of my job but most of the time, I do not want the focus on me. I look up to artists who are very private and pop out when they feel like it. You know what they say, fake it til you make it. I believe it was Rihanna that said “Never let them see you sweat.”

Contact Info:

• Website: www.ikaylastarr.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ikaylastarr/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ikaylastarr/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/iKaylaStarr
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCS-ZhDJl4RZMk9efGEzlelw
• SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/kaylastarr 

Image Credits
Dave Lang Malcolm Martin