Today we’d like to introduce you to Lara Belle.
Lara, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I started writing songs as a child. I was a latch key kid so it became my way of passing time. It was crazy to me that I could be so shy about everything but performing. I performed at graduation parties, chorus concerts, weddings anywhere… then, I started doing background vocals for other artists and hosting shows at Kat’s Cafe with the hopes of funding my first album. When I was called to perform at Wednesday Winddown, I just squeezed every extra penny I had to get the first ep In The Meantime done before that performance. Currently, I still perform for private events and write songs for other artists as well as myself. I’m excited to share new music next year. It’s gonna be a busy year!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It has been a bumpy road. It is difficult to manage the creative and business aspects of being an independent artist. But its really important to be equally as good in understanding the business of music as you are at the creative aspects. In addition, it can feel very vulnerable to put your dream and your emotions out there. You receive a lot of love but also heavy criticism and judgment. For a while, I let the negative aspects hold me back. I would advise aspiring artists to stand in their power and keep a strong support system around them. Always be open to feedback and constructive criticism but also be kind to yourself. A friend once told me: “It’s a journey, not a destination.”
Please tell us more about what you do, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I’m a singer and songwriter. My work is available on iTunes, Spotify, and SoundCloud. My style of music is acoustic soul/jazz. Much of my sound is jazz-influenced but I grab inspiration from so many genres. Lately, I have been studying the work of great songwriters like Joni Mitchell and Diane Warren. I truly love the work of Lianne La Havas, Jill Scott, Stevie Wonder, and John Mayer… I could go on… a song has this beautiful ability to take a complex topic or emotion and funnel it into just a few sentences. It’s an amazing process. My goal is just to write beautiful songs and be a part of a team that creates timeless music. I’m still working on what sets me apart.
Recently, I’ve had musical experiences that have helped me understand who I am NOT. I’m paying attention to what motivates me and the type of songwriter I am and being more intentional about moving towards that. Starting out, I just was so excited to be invited and now, I know that if I want to get to my true artistry, I have to say No sometimes to get to the Yes I want to get to.
What do you feel are the biggest barriers today to female leadership, in your industry or generally?
Women are often underestimated. It takes a team for one artist to be truly successful and a lot of times some incredibly intelligent and talented women have had to come to the party with a male counterpart just to get in the door. It’s dangerous sometimes to be in the industry and get a seat at the table in an honorable way. But women have really shown their ability to be fully involved in all aspects of their career over the last ten years. While there is still a long way to go, it’s empowering to watch artists like Beyonce and Janelle Monae stand fearlessly in asking for what they deserve and to be branded in a manner of their choosing, not one chosen for them.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.larabellesound.com
- Instagram: @larabellesound
Image Credit:
Blue Soul Photography, Luther Daniels Photography
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