Daily Inspiration: Meet Roxy Ortiz

Today we’d like to introduce you to Roxy Ortiz.

Hi Roxy, 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?

My name is Roxanne. I go by Roxy. I am a singer/songwriter from Long Beach, CA. I am also a fellow listener of all music thanks to my parents and older brothers’ eclectic music taste. I’m a middle child between two brothers, so I feel that they have kept me humble. My family is my support system, and I thrive off of making them proud.

I like to write songs based on my experiences with the people I surround myself with and the obstacles I encounter in life and within myself. I find songwriting and singing to be therapeutic. I started by teaching myself the ukulele, and then I graduated to the guitar and the keys. I enjoy playing around on the drums and bass, but I don’t take them too seriously.

I’ve always been a shower singer, karaoke lover, and cover jammer (if that makes sense?), but I started taking songwriting seriously when I was 17. Since then, I have been able to collaborate with other musicians and develop my sound. I started gigging around Long Beach at Dipiazza’s and various bars and grills around the same time, which led me to join a band. Those connections helped when booking gigs, and I developed a passion for booking and promoting shows.

After high school, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, I attended California State University, Monterey Bay, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in music. I enjoyed my time there and formed many connections that I am genuinely thankful for. I not only learned about vocal performance, audio recording, theory, and composition, but I was also able to collaborate with other musicians and gain valuable experience.

Now that I am back home, I am doing solo gigs and acoustic performances whenever I can around Long Beach and the surrounding areas. I am working on projects, establishing my sound, and trying to create while staying close to the fire constantly.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Growing up wasn’t always easy, and I haven’t always treated myself kindly. There were times when doubt and self-criticism overshadowed my confidence and self-worth. Yet, with time comes growth, and I’ve come to understand the importance of shifting my perspective. Now, I strive to offer grace to all versions of myself, recognizing that each part of my journey has shaped who I am today.

Today, I find myself at an age where significant change is constantly unfolding around me. This period of my life feels like a transformative time. I finally have the power to define my desires and create the path I want, one that resonates with who I am. It’s empowering to realize that every experience I have encountered has guided me to this incredible moment.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I identify as a singer/songwriter. I am a vocalist, and my primary instrument is currently a guitar. My passion is writing songs and singing them to people. I enjoy leaving things open to interpretation and allowing listeners to relate to my music in their way. For me, songwriting is a form of therapy. I find clarity and the fog fades away when I can write a song about it.
I also enjoy organizing shows and creating flyers. Hosting and promoting shows is also an excellent opportunity for me to perform, which I appreciate. I am most proud of the shows I have put on. They have been successful and have been such a fun way for me to network, connect with other musicians, and make money.
I am the only person singing my songs and doing what I’m doing the way I’m doing it—Roxy O stylee. A mix of punk, reggae and everything that has ever inspired me. The women in my life inspire me, as do vocalists like Patsy Cline and Amy Winehouse.

Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
The one quality that I feel is important to my success is self-confidence. Without my willingness to try or without taking action, it would be hard to be a successful independent musician. However, because I have found the strength and will to try, I have been able to perform at least once a month since graduating from high school. I have also been able to connect with other musicians and establish professional relationships that enable my creativity to flourish.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roxeegirl/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@roxanneortiz8211

Image Credits
Maddy Lee
Mary-Alex Andrusco
Marlena Marika Photography
Matthew Pawlewics
Bryan Chavez