Rising Stars: Meet Zoë Council

Zoë, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin? 
When I was 8 years old, my mom signed me up for South Bay Children’s Choir. I became mesmerized by the harmonies and took up an interest in music theory; that’s when I knew I wanted to be a singer, an artist. I did SBCC for 10 years, as well as musical theater and band. I absolutely fell in love with performing. I graduated high school and got accepted into the Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music at NYU Tisch. I decided it wasn’t the right program for me and took a leave of absence that ultimately resulted in an official dropout. I moved back to LA and started busking on Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica. I hate to admit I was naive because I truly don’t believe I was naive as I was in denial — in denial about how ridiculously unfair it was for a woman to be taken seriously as a person, let alone an artist. In conclusion, I resorted to modeling because I felt I could get my foot in the door faster. It seemed people were more interested in my physical appearance than the songs I’d spent years writing and developing my style: aesthetically and sonically. Modeling took off pretty quickly, actually, and certainly opened some networking doors. Currently, I’m focused on making music and embracing my artistry. I’ve bumped mental health to the top of my priorities because that mental foundation is essential to my vulnerability, sensitivity and creativity.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
NOT smooth. There is so much societal bullshit, i.e. sexism, on top of adult shit that can get in the way of your dreams. I’ve worked for and met so many people who absolutely have taken advantage of me, in business and sexually. I’ve had to not only survive traumas but overcome them and heal myself enough to want to make art again. It’s not productive or conducive to my career holding grudges, but I certainly am more aware and protective of myself and how I handle situations.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I love art. I think “art” can be vague and subjective, as the life and career of an artist. Music has been the most intuitive and magnetic for me. I’m indulgent in fashion and film too. Simply, I enjoy self-expression. I am most proud of transforming struggle into opportunity. Using my obstacles as fuel instead of excuses. Making art from trauma. I do what I want. I am quick to cut off inauthenticity, people and things I don’t like, or aren’t serving my truth. I trust myself and let my instincts guide me. I don’t care what people think about me or what I’m doing. I’m fiercely committed to myself.