Conversations with Ami Miller

Hi Ami, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I got started doing music by writing poetry when I was a little girl. I loved the feeling of expressing myself lyrically and began writing rap songs. I was a big fan of Eve. She really inspired me to become a rapper. I was also inspired by Lauryn Hill, Lil Kim, Missy Elliot, Nas, and others. My love for hip-hop and desire to perform surpassed all of my other ambitions.

In school, I began rapping for my classmates and they were my biggest cheerleaders. I freestyled with others during lunch or any semi-free time at school daily. I competed in almost every talent show and joined rap clubs. Writing songs became an obsession and sometimes came before my classwork unfortunately. I recorded my first song in the studio at the age of 12.

After graduating high school, I officially became an artist and put in heavy work in my hometown of Houston,Texas. I performed all throughout the South and collaborated with some of Houston’s biggest rap artists. I signed up to compete on one of my favorite television rap battle competitions called BET’s 106 and Park Freestyle Friday and got invited to appear on the show. I was so nervous. I was also grieving as I had just lost my big brother John after battling cancer. He transitioned just days before my first battle while I was in New York. I rushed home to Houston and did not even want to return to be on the show anymore. He was really looking forward to me being on the show and my mother even stressed how proud he was, so I just went through with it. It took everything out of me but it also gave me hope. I ended up making it further than I even expected becoming the first woman to enter the semi-finals/ final four contestants and being invited back to perform my original music. I gained incredible fans and supporters. I also received tremendous support from celebrities I didn’t even know knew of me.

I received many booking inquiries and deal offers. Even though I had a manager at the time, a record deal was unfortunately not secured. You’re probably not expecting to hear this. But shortly after, I ended up accepting a position as a flight attendant for a major airline. This was not my plan, but it was definitely a blessing in disguise. It opened my eyes to a lot of things. I traveled the world, met amazing people, and got the opportunity to transfer to/ live in Los Angeles. From there it was a wrap. I decided that I wanted to travel back-and-forth between Houston and Los Angeles and spend more time in Los Angeles working on my music and furthering my acting career. I have also been passionate about acting since a kid and have attended different acting schools in Houston.

I was fortunate to resign from my flying position and become a full-time artist/actress. I am extremely blessed and appreciate every lesson on my journey.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
I definitely would not call it smooth. Most artists want the resources and opportunities to do more. Being a flight attendant came with many sets of challenges and demands. I also had to learn to trust myself more and stop taking everyone’s unsolicited advice. Overthinking and being a perfectionist is something I had to grow out of. And of course, being a woman in this industry is not easy.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a hip-hop artist, actress, songwriter, and model. I am best known for my freestyle skills and rap battles. My freestyle and songwriting skills are something I am definitely proud of. My style is hardcore, witty, and competitive. I love to rap fast and am a lyricist. This has also set me apart from others.

Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
I have received support from many great people. My mother is my #1 cheerleader. My day ones in Houston are the first to hear my songs and give me their feedback. Owen Ingram has given me great advice, direction, and support. Aaron Thrower has been a great producer, advisor, and friend. Kool and The Gangs’ George Brown has believed in me and my talent. I am honored to work with him. I have amazing, loyal fans and supporters that I am so thankful for.