Meet Tia Simone of Koreatown

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tia Simone.

Hi Tia, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Hello friends! I’m Tia Simone, your #VOCALISTICDIVA.

I grew up in Michigan in a house full of women, creative, loud, silly, and full of life. My mother had a deep love for all things music and art, and that love trickled down to me. I started singing in church as a kid, then trained in classical music and opera. I went on to study classical voice and jazz in college, even though music theory and my left brain never really got along.

At 24, I moved to Los Angeles with just $600 in my pocket and a job at Taco Bell waiting for me, because as my mama said, “Always pay your bills!” For years, I worked full-time jobs and did music on the side. I’ve always considered myself a late bloomer. It wasn’t until I was 32 that I finally quit my corporate job, working in HR for Oprah, and jumped headfirst into music.

I was broke, nannying, and singing in four different bands. I’d left jazz and opera behind and found myself drawn to soul and rock, genres that let me take up space and move freely. I’ve always had too much energy to stay still on stage! Those years taught me how to be free, how to connect with an audience, and most of all, how to show up as myself. That’s the greatest gift this chaotic, beautiful world of entertainment has given me, the power to bring people joy just by being who I am.

Today, I tour with Postmodern Jukebox and sing with the powerhouse group DC6, a dynamic vocal collective blending gospel, soul, and Motown. I’ve had the honor of performing at the Hollywood Bowl, working on the film Sinners, and collaborating with artists like Lady Gaga and Jon Batiste. These moments have shaped me both personally and professionally, reminding me of why I do this.

And in January 2024, I took the leap and produced my very own show. It was magic, 12-piece band, three backup singers, costume and wig changes, and an electric room full of love and music. I cannot wait to do it again!

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
There were times I questioned if I was cut out for this life. Not just the singing, but the grind behind the scenes. I’ve dealt with rejection, burnout, and moments where the bills were due and the gigs were dry. There were months I was exhausted from pouring into everyone else’s projects while putting mine on the back burner.

Sometimes the hardest part wasn’t the work. It was the silence. The waiting. The wondering if anyone saw me, or if all the yeses were only going to people with easier access, better connections, or less grit.

I had to learn how to trust my pace, even when it looked nothing like the timelines around me. I had to stay rooted in why I started and keep showing up for myself even when nobody else was clapping.

That kind of growth doesn’t come easy, but it’s real. And it made me unshakable.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a singer, performer, and creative who leads with heart, soul, and instinct.

I’m all about live music that moves people. I love creating experiences that are bold, emotional, and full of life. Whether I’m arranging vocals, leading a band, or stepping into a character, I bring all of me every time. I’m not afraid to take risks, and I’m not interested in playing small.

My work spans stages, studios, and screens. I’ve contributed to major performances, film projects, and collaborative pieces that challenge and excite me. Every opportunity has helped me sharpen my craft and expand how I show up as a creator.

I’m proud of the path I’ve carved. Proud of the moments I’ve created. And proud of how I’ve grown, not just as a singer, but as a leader and a creative force.

What sets me apart is the way I connect. I know how to read a room, how to lift it, and how to leave people better than I found them. I don’t fake it. I live it. Every song, every show, every time.

What does success mean to you?
Success, to me, means living in alignment.

It’s when what I do, who I am, and what I believe all match. It’s not just about being seen. It’s about making a real impact and feeling free in the process.

Success is being able to create, support myself, and stay true to who I am. It’s knowing I brought something meaningful to a space, whether that’s joy, truth, or a little healing.

It also means having the power to say no when something isn’t right and saying yes when it is, without second guessing.

And honestly, success keeps changing as I grow. That’s part of the beauty of it.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.tiasimone.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tiasimonedotcom
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tiasimonedotcom
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/tiasimonedotcom