Today we’d like to introduce you to Briana Carbajal.
Hi Briana, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I’m originally from Edinburg, Texas. I grew up with a huge family surrounded by love and inspiration. Especially from my stepfather and mom. They always cheered me on and would tell me I can do anything I set my mind to. I’m really appreciative and blessed to have parents like that. I definitely feel like it molded me into who I am today. My parents always had music on in the house and I think it really became a big part of my identity in how I express myself. I’m forever grateful for those moments.
I went to St. Edwards University in Austin, Texas and was in the jazz improv band. I played drums and I really enjoyed it. My music professor, Joey Colarusso, made a very big impact on me and how I could achieve greatness and also pushed me to believe in myself even more than I did at that time. I’ve always wanted to pursue music, but I didn’t really know what I wanted to do exactly. I thought I wanted to be a sound engineer or an A&R, but little did know a few years later I would learn I could actually sing.
My story of where I am today actually starts with a love story. My partner, Niko, and I met online about four years ago. COVID hit and I came over here to spend some time with him. He was previously in a few bands before the one we are in together. I was very inspired by him. I’ve always LOVED music and can play a few instruments, but I’ve NEVER sang. I decided one day while I was just dancing that I wanted to sing. I looked in the mirror and I just told myself, “You know what? Why can’t I do this?” So, Niko was really happy to help me out and start this journey with me. We created the rock band “S8NT ELEKTRIC” together! I have such an amazing band and we are about to celebrate two years together. We have got to open up for amazing bands like: Dirty Honey, Mammoth WVH, Red Fang, MC5, WARGASM UK, and so many more amazing ones! We are about to go back to Europe this summer! Spain to be precise! We are playing a festival and opening up for Wolfmother!
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?
I don’t think anything in life is really a smooth road. I have dealt with struggles along the way. Coming to a whole other city and moving away from everyone I knew or what environment I was used to definitely threw me off at moments. I will say that there were times I just wanted to give up on everything and go home, but then I would look around at all the things I’ve accomplished and remember why I’m here and what I’m here for.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am the lead singer of the rock band S8NT ELEKTRIC. I’m most proud of the music we are creating. I want it to be able to speak to everyone who is on a journey of self-exploration and growth. When writing the lyrics, I have them come from a place of vulnerability.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
My advice for anyone that’s just starting out is to make sure you love the art you are creating and when creating it, it’s for you. There will always be critiques no matter what you do in life, so might as well do what makes you happy and the right people will love what you do.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
Jamie A Waters @jawmidnight Rachel Zahm @thelifeofrayzahm Rawaa Mahdi @smrawaa Violet Scars @scarsviolet Danny Kötter @thezitterman
