Hello Kendra how are you?
Hello!! I am so good! Thank you for inviting me to interview!
Congratulations on the release of “I’m A Showstopper” how does it feel?
My favorite thing to do is release music. I love the process so much from songwriting to recording and performing. I’m thrilled.
What’s the story behind the song?
One of my favorite phrases growing up actually was actually “Showstopper”. I love that it means I’m so entertaining that I stop the show.
It’s a collaboration with Ayo Sk3tch how did that come about?
Ayo SK3tch and I are friends. It was really awesome to collaborate with him. We meet up often in LA at cool shows and parties, so it was natural to work together. We talked about it for a while, and when I recorded my track “Showstopper”, I knew Sk3tch would make the remix out of this world!
What was your favourite memory of working with him?
On the day of filming for the music video, we filmed outside of Los Angeles County Museum of Art in front of a popular sculpture. Then we kicked it and talked about our lives and the music industry after at Ayo Sk3tch’s place. Always a good time.
You’ve also partnered with MusiCares on this tell us about the program.
I participate in MusiCares programming throughout the year. As an active member of The Recording Academy, I really enjoy attending MusiCares events and conversations. Last year, I served on the Los Angeles Chapter Foundations Committee too, where we helped be a liaison between The Grammy Museum, MusiCares, and The Recording Academy. It’s an honor to be active in the music world and with such amazing people!
You’re an artist from Los Angeles how did it all begin for you?
I’m actually from Houston, Texas 🙂 I moved to Los Angeles to pursue acting when I attended Pepperdine University for college. It all started with musical theatre when I was growing up in Houston. I started training at age 4.
What did you listen to growing up?
I sang a lot of musical theatre songs growing up and choir songs. I also loved Britney Spears, classic rock, emo music, rap, and blues. Experimental music was my thing too!
You’re a multi instrumentalist, what’s your typical writing process?
It depends on the song! I start with writing the lyrics sometimes and other times I start by creating a rhythm on the guitar or piano. I really indulge in lyrics, and my notes app/journals are filled with songs, songwriting ideas, and inspiring thoughts!
Post pandemic what have you learned about yourself in the last three years?
I have learned that my home is where my heart is, and I really appreciate living in Los Angeles!
Did you pick up any new skills?
I think my social media content creation process really blossomed. I also honed my skills at live-streaming!
L.A. is a hotbed of talent what’s your favourite spot to hang out and get inspired?
The nature and historic landmarks in LA are really soul centering for me. Hollywood, Venice Beach, and Malibu are the closest to my heart.
What are you listening to at the moment?
I literally have become such a Kim Petras fan. I’m also listening to Dorian Electra, Beyonce, Phish, Grateful Dead, Cardi B, Janelle Monáe, Big Freedia, and Billie Eilish.
What are you looking forward to doing next?
I’m performing this September in Houston at The Rice University v. University of Houston pre-game show. On September 29th, I’m doing an acoustic show at The Viper Room!
