Today we’d like to introduce you to Cari Alam. She and her team shared her story with us below:
Born in the small town of Quincy, IL. Cari’s life was filled with music and entertainment from the very beginning. Growing up in a family of musicians, she was inspired by fierce female rock stars like Tina Turner, Heart, Celine Dion, Janet Jackson, Whitney Houston, and more. As a songwriter, Mariah Carey, Diane Warren and Carol Bayer Sager inspired Cari’s ambitions to write. Music wasn’t her only passion. She also had a love for fashion and acting, dreaming of one day becoming an international superstar. Cari drew her inspiration for acting from some of the most iconic and sophisticated black actresses in Hollywood from Diahann Carol, Halle Berry Jada Pinkett-Smith, influenced by their talent, beauty, and sex appeal, fueling her desire to follow in their footsteps.
After moving with her family to Atlanta, GA she continued to hone her talents, achieving a BA in Fine Arts (fashion design/ marketing) and becoming the singing protégé of renowned Atlanta Jazz singer Theresa Hightower. As an actress and coach, Cari studies under the mentorship of Jonna Neagle, owner of Artistic Heights Academy in Atlanta, GA, where she studies and teaches from the book, “The Power of the Actor” by Ivanna Chubbuck.
Cari is deeply committed to giving back to her community. Bringing harmony to Atlanta one note at a time, Cari and her band, Cool Groove, have performed for several high-profile nonprofit galas like the 21st Century Leaders annual Georgia Youth Program Awards Gala and the CVC of Atlanta’s Impact Awards ceremony for three consecutive years.
Despite the challenges that she has faced along the way, Cari has never lost sight of her dreams and continues to push to new heights. Her tenacity and determination are matched only by her kind heart and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on the world.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It has not been a smooth road, though I’ve had many wins and successes. The hardest part for me is maintaining the tenacity to continue to pursue my dreams even when it feels like it’s not working out. My entire life, I’ve pursued a career in arts and entertainment, and as an independent artist, you really give everything to your dreams, and you really have to believe in yourself and your vision, even when others don’t see it yet! So for me, just staying focused, staying in love with what I do, and being satisfied along the journey is key.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’ve always worked in the creative arts! I started my career in fashion, earning a BA in fashion design and marketing. So, fashion and design are a big part of my look and my live performances.
I’m a big fan of Pop, R&B, and Country music, and I grew up in a family band that performed the hits, so I grew up around cover bands! I have a corporate band, “Cari and Cool Groove” and we specialize in providing music production for nonprofit galas/fundraisers and corporate events! It’s a great way for me to use my talent while being of service to my community.
As a songwriter, I just released a new single called, “Ready” and I’m so proud of it. I wrote it years ago, and it’s finally ready to be released. The song talks about being ready in your heart to step out on faith and pursue your dreams!
Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
Yes! I think we all learned a lesson about the importance of life, and how precious it it. I think collectively, the world needed a break and it all had to stop. I’m happy that we’re more mindful of self-care and taking time to slow down and prioritize mental health.
Contact Info:
- Website: Carialam.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamcarialam/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iamcarialam1
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/iamcarialam
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@iamcarialam
- Other: https://linktr.ee/iamcarialam
Image Credits
Personal photo: Jermaine Duval Red Top / Dress Images: Tommy Chung Photography Headshots: Dwayne Boyd Photography
