Conversations with Vinlisa Khoeum

Today we’d like to introduce you to Vinlisa Khoeum

Hi Vinlisa, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I discovered my love and curiosity for music in elementary school. I was always the shy girl growing up but found myself captivated by the spotlight at school talent shows. Fast forward to high school, I started creating song covers in my close friend’s bedroom at the time. She would help me record on her phone and we would pick different song instrumentals from Youtube for me to sing over. My first song cover was back in 2015 of Frank Ocean’s “Thinking Bout You.” These song covers became a passion project I would do every other month after school and I thoroughly enjoyed the process of making them. Soon enough, towards the end of high school, I decided to pursue a Music Industry major at Loyola University of New Orleans. This opportunity allowed me to receive a solid academic foundation in the various facets of the music industry while also forming the essential connections that would help shape my career. Among these connections was Jack Perry, who is currently my manager, producer, and dear friend. Despite it all, I was constantly drawn back to the creative side of the industry. I enjoyed letting myself be vulnerable in the studio room, which became my sanctuary. I enjoyed the initial nervousness that would transform into adrenaline for my performances on stage. I enjoyed the heartwarming feedback I received from my peers. Soon enough, around graduation, Jack and I decided to take a bold leap of faith by moving to Los Angeles in 2021. Since then, I have been steadily growing my name and sharing my art with the world. I’ve been grateful to share my sound with Sofar Sounds, Breaking Sound, and at historical venues such as the Viper Room and the Adults Only Bar. Lately, I’ve been involved with performing at events curated by Two Biscuit Records, which is also run by Jack. These events have helped to grow and foster a music community we’ve always sought to be a part of. Additionally, my work and dedication to music have allowed me to grow an online community as I’ve amassed over 360,000 streams across all major streaming platforms. I’m thankful for my humble beginnings and will continue to dedicate my time to discovering more about myself on this journey to pursue music.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I wouldn’t say it’s been a smooth road for my music, and I think that’s partly because of the weight of expectations I’ve carried with me since childhood. As the eldest daughter of immigrant parents who survived the Cambodian genocide, I grew up with a sense of responsibility to create a better life for myself and my family. This pressure led me to focus on my academic success and pursue a career in the medical field, which I thought would guarantee financial security- something my family and I never experienced growing up. Of course, when I decided to pursue a major in Music Industry, my parents were devastated. They couldn’t understand why I would abandon a traditional and secure career path for something as unconventional as music. This decision created a rift between us, and I still struggle with the feeling that I need to prove myself to them.

Additionally, I face the constant battle of balancing time between my creative pursuits with the need to survive financially. My day job takes up a significant amount of time, which means I have to sacrifice opportunities to focus on my music. The trade-off can be frustrating at times, but I do understand that this is a necessary contribution towards my music. Despite these challenges, I’m determined to continue my creative career even if it means navigating through the uncertainty and self-doubt that occur.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As an independent singer-songwriter, recording, and performing artist, I’ve had the privilege of crafting a unique sound that blends the soulful essence of R&B, the rhythmic energy of Hip-Hop, and the improvisational aspect of Jazz music- all of which I grew up with in New Orleans. I take pride in being the driving force behind my music, from writing to recording and then performing. I’m thankful to have full creative control over my work, which allows me to stay true to my vision and values. I am also grateful for my team who share these same values and allow me to flourish into the artist I want to be.

Additionally, what sets me apart from others is my willingness to break stereotypes and push boundaries. As an Asian-American woman in the U.S. music industry, I’m aware that I don’t fit the traditional mold of what people expect from a singer-songwriter. But I’m proud to represent my culture and community and to inspire others who may not see themselves reflected in this industry. I’m most proud of my ability to step out of my comfort zone and take risks in my music, which has allowed me to grow and evolve as an artist. My independence and commitment to staying true to myself are what drives me to create music that is authentic, unique, and impactful. I’m excited to share my music with the world and to continue pushing the boundaries of possibilities.

Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
I’ve learned that the most important thing for those just starting out is to embrace the scary. I know it’s natural to have doubts and fears about being judged or unsure of the unknown, but I find that is what makes this journey so exciting. The uncertainty and unpredictability of this career path can be intimidating, but it’s also what makes it so thrilling and rewarding. I find comfort in knowing that I still have so much to learn, and that’s what keeps me motivated to keep pushing forward.

One thing I wish I had known when I was starting out is to not let the opinions of others hold me back. I took a lot of criticism to heart and it made me hesitant to create and release music before. But, now I’ve learned to take feedback and use it as a lesson to become better. I wish I cared less about what people thought earlier on so that I wouldn’t lack confidence in my music and release it more frequently. My advice is to not let fear of criticism hold you back from creating and sharing your art. Instead, learn to work with what you’re given and use it as an opportunity to grow and improve.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.vinlisa.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vinlisamusic/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vinlisamusic
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuueSjSQ3aw9pUzX7sopnHw
• Other: https://linktr.ee/vinlisa

Image Credits
I have the photo’s name under each photographer’s full name.

Here are their names in full:

Justin Zheng
Jack Perry
Noel Mendoza