Daily Inspiration: Meet Sequoia Branson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sequoia Branson

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I am a 17 year old singer/songwriter from Orange County California. I would describe my writing as “raw” and “soulful”. As I create my music I aspire to include pure authenticity and vulnerability as I find that the best way to connect with my audience. I was completely aware from a very young age of who, and what I wanted to be. I had hopes and dreams just like any other kid, but I had a goal and I was completely set on it- not a single thing could blow me off my tracks. Ive been performing live since the third grade and yet to find a feeling as empowering and intimate as being on a stage, singing how you feel. Ive picked up instruments along the way to expand my creative ability and to give me greater and more connective songwriting. I produced my first song at 15, I am 17 now. Ive continued to work with the same producers since then. “The Chapters” also known as Simon Jay and Luke Shrestha, have taught me so much about music and the beauty of production alone. This year (2024) has been my biggest performance year yet. From house shows to venue shows such as playing The Whisky a Go-Go, I have gained more stage exposure than I’ve ever had so far. I have three singles released such as, “RUN”, “Where does my love go”, and “bad case of loving you”. Two out of three of these songs will be seen on my EP to be released late this year/early next year. Im currently working hard to promote my music across all platforms but also staying true to knowing that it’ll take time until I get to where i’m destined to be.

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?
With the career path I’ve chosen, I’ve faced many struggles, these struggles have molded me into the artist I am today. Ive been frustrated, lacking motivation, and even faced writers block.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a singer/songwriter. I specialize in the genre of jazz-pop & soul. Im known for my metaphoric-authentic writing style and my “60s rollers hair-do.” I am most proud of being able to continue throughout music despite the struggles and “fixed mindset” a songwriter can have at times. I believe that my vulnerability with storytelling, lyrics, and my soulful vocals is what sets me apart from other artists today. I believe that my chosen genre in music isn’t as “popular” in this generation of music, it’s only a matter of time until I inspire other young artists to pursue a similar style/genre.

How do you define success?
I define success as self satisfaction. Being able to sit back and reflect on your accomplishments and struggles is an important part of success. Success to many could be wealth, riches, and material. Success to me is to set an exhilarating vibe for an audience and hope for them to carry that with them everywhere. Knowing that I got someone’s heart racing by listening to the music I create makes me feel extremely successful.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1emZ17fVU8qCsQvOg9dacK?si=xEEvQFy5Ts620I7TYaXY3g
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sequoiabranson?igsh=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@sequoiabranson?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

Image Credits
sam steiner