Today we’d like to introduce you to Valerie Lemus.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Valerie. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Born & raised in North Hollywood to immigrant parents, I got to witness hard work at its finest. My parents have always given me everything I’ve ever needed and provided a wonderful life for my brother & I. I found my passion at the age of ten. When I went to my best friend’s bday party at a dance studio called Millennium. Back in 2000. I immediately dropped playing soccer and asked my parents to put me in the dance program for kids. The supportive parents they are, without hesitating, enrolled me into Millennium’s classes. It was history from then. I started training with Lindsay Taylor and eventually Shane Sparks and Kennis. I had my first job at 13 on a DVD called Learn to Hip Hop v.2. Eventually, I decided in high school to train full time, so I got homeschooled. Around the age of 15, I was training at Millennium Dance Complex almost every day all day. I got signed to an agency at 17 & booked my first tour at 18 with Justin Stein on a Disney tour opening for Corbin Bleu. Since then, I’ve been on tour with Tyga, Nelly, Pretty Ricky, The Game, & MoneyBagg yo. I’ve done music videos with LMFAO, Beyonce, Kendrick Lamar, Eric Bellinger, Desiigner, Chris Brown, Ester Dean, Will.I.Am, and etc. its been an incredible journey.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It’s never a smooth road in this industry. One year you’re fully booking jobs and the next you’re auditioning and auditioning. It’s always tough wanting a particular job but not being tall enough, not being skinny enough, or just not fitting the look. I believe whatever is meant for you will be. I’ve learned to grow thick skin in this industry, as well as not take everything so personal. As long as you maintain your soul and be yourself you will always be a step ahead. The grind never ends & the fight only gets tougher. Consistency has always been key for me, my networking and relationships I’ve grown with people over the years are the most important to me. There have been plenty of times I wanted to give up, move on, find a new career. But nothing could ever compare to the way dance has made me feel, made me live, & opened my eyes to this incredible planet that’s out there.
Please tell us about MusikHoodTheory.
I’m most proud of being able to love what I do and travel the world all at the same time. Its a dream job. Not many people get to say that. One that fell into my lap without even knowing what was to come. I believe what sets me apart is the fact that I have been 100% myself since I was a little girl. No one gets a different Valerie. On stage and off stage, I am this high energy full of life woman who is just trying to put a smile on anyone’s face. I’m always humbled by the love I get from others & I am forever learning the more and more I travel & the more I meet other souls around the world.
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
I can’t say I’d start over at all. The journey to where I am now has been nothing short of amazing. I would say I would put in more work though. I didn’t always value the fact that I was born in a city that people only dream to visit, let alone move to. I didn’t always value the fact I had insane support from my family and didn’t have to ever move away from them to pursue my dream job. I think I’ve learned most to live in the moment. To be grateful and thankful for this life, my family, friends & career.
Contact Info:
- Email: musiktheory26@gmail.com
- Instagram: @musikhoodtheory
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