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Artist Spotlight: Grae Violett
Grae Violett is a queer, POC singer and songwriter that is such a treat to have in our Totem Star family. Although she was born in Nashville, TN, she grew up around the Seattle area and considers Seattle her home. With ‘Real’ being her very first song to ever be released, we are honored to be able to have Grae Violett be featured for our 27th installment of The Song.
THE INTERVIEW
Tell us about your song. What inspired you? What is the message behind the song?
I made this song in 2018 as a response from a time when my mom and I were talking in the car. My mom was reflecting and commenting on how my friend groups differ so much from when I was young vs. today. It made me think -- at the end of the day, you should not ever have to struggle to fit into a friend group. It should just happen. With my friend group, I did not have to change myself to feel acknowledged; I already felt seen. I also wanted to convey the message that outcasts are some of the most beautiful and intriguing people, and that sometimes the people you don't expect to be friends with turn out to be your closest people.
As someone who identifies as queer, I also found that writing this song was a way to write about all of my experiences with all identies. All of my experiences -- they are all real. And we are all working to just be authentically ourselves.
I do art because it's a way for me to work through sometimes complicated emotions and make something beautiful out of something so raw and vulnerable. I'm really interested in emotions and conveying them in my music because at the end of the day, raw emotion is something that everyone has in common.
Who are some of your greatest influences?
Olly Alexander - I want to be as extra as him. I stan it.
The 1975 - Their 80s synth pop, grungy sound. I'm super inspired by the musicality of their songs.
Sza - Her songwriting is just -!!!
What is a goal of yours in music that you want to work towards this year in 2020?
Performing more and putting out an EP! I would love to make an EP.
My long-term goal would be to perform at Bumbershoot -- being able to perform on a stage where I’ve seen some of my favorite artists.
How has Totem Star helped shape you as a person and as an artist?
Being here at Totem Star has given me a lot more confidence to just try things. I am a perfectionist and it has taught me to be okay with the process even if it isn’t perfect the first time. I’ll tell myself, “Okay, I did my very best. This is good!”
I’ve learned to trust the process. To have an idea in my head and to keep it in my head, but to not get super tied down to it. For example, my song ‘Real’ was gonna be a ballad, but now it is more upbeat like a road trip song. You just gotta go with it and see what happens.
I’ve learned different skills and techniques as an artist such as reverse guitar.
Totem Star is my favorite place in Seattle. I was here during the snow day even. I’ve only been here for 7 months, but it feels like I’ve been here forever.
Grae Violett
Grae Violett is singer-songwriter who was born in Nashville, TN but spent her formative years in Washington state, specifically the Seattle area. Being from the South, having parents from NYC, and living in the PNW have led to a lot of road trips where she has had many interesting interactions with the people and places around her. One thing she has learned from travelling cross country is that although we are different, the one thing we all have in common is emotion. Everybody feels, and those feelings lead to amazing stories. A music lover, she considers herself a genre-less artist, but 80s synth pop will always have a special place in her heart. She is extremely excited to share her art with all the beautiful souls out there, and hopes that they will enjoy it.
You can follow Grae Violett | @graedreamer
Yung Fuego
Yung Fuego is a rapper from Seattle, WA who goes to Vashon High School. As an emerging artist who started his journey in 2018 and had just debuted performing live for the very first time at Winter Magic, we are honored to be able to have Yung Fuego be featured for our 26th installment of The Song.
THE INTERVIEW
Tell us about your song. What inspired you? What is the message behind the song?
My newest single, ‘Respect On It’ just released on January 1st. It was driven by many things including inspiration and messages.
After the release of one of my songs, Superstar Status, I faced a tough challenge. No path to stardom is complete without one interfering obstacle — haters. While the response to the song was mostly positive, there was hate that infuriated me and brought me to a stage of rage and confusion. In an angry state full of rash decisions, I announced that I was quitting music. I felt like this was the only way to handle the negativity, to let them win. I later realized my mistake and changed my mind a day later, but the damage was already done. Still disoriented from that situation though, I went forward with one message to my opposition, "Put Some Respect On It". This was a message that I could use to boost my self-confidence and counter all the hate that I was getting. The message of the song is to be strong and prove your haters wrong.
What was one of your first experiences with music that made you want to become a creator? Why do you continue to create music?
One of my first experiences with music that made me want to be a creator was when I was little, my family went on a vacation. The hotel that we went to had karaoke, and I spent hours performing — realizing that this is what I wanted in life. This later developed into a passion as I had started my first band in Second Grade called Doomsday. After many talent shows, I kept on going and eventually came to the studio to pursue my dream. I continue to make music because this is my dream, and I love every bit of it.
How has Totem Star helped shape you as a person and as an artist? How have your other communities (family, friends, country, city, etc) shaped you in those same ways?
Totem Star has helped develop me as an artist and person. Through Totem Star, I had a way to record and develop my music as well as a creative outlet. I have learned almost everything I know about music from here and it has been a great experience for me. I have made new friends through this and it has changed my life.
If you could pick a top 3 -- what are your three most treasured values you try to live by?
My three most treasured values that I try to live by is to be kind, be honest, and be myself.
Where do you hope to see yourself in 5 years from now?
5 years from now, I see myself a successful rapper on a world tour, with millions of followers, and a dedicated fan base.
Yung Fuego
Best known as a Seattle native, Yung Fuego has been building his solo career as a talented Hip Hop Artist since 2018. Influenced by the community, culture, and sounds of his hometown, Yung Fuego aspires to perform music that speaks to fans across the musical spectrum. His signature style has become synonymous with a diverse collection of melodies and a style unlike anything else.
You can follow Yung Fuego @diego_el_fuego
Zoser
Zoser performing at SassyBlack’s Soul Soulection
Zoser is a singer/songwriter and music bender with a soulful voice, thoughtful lyrics, and a guitar. From Augusta, Georgia, he moved to Seattle and graduated from West Seattle high school. By culling and synthesizing seemingly disparate musical forms and influences, Zoser has crafted a sound that is wholly and undeniably his own. We are honored to be able to have Zoser be featured for our 24th installment of The Song.
THE INTERVIEW
Tell us about your song. What inspired you? How do you hope listeners will receive your messages?
After being a part of Totem Star for two years. “Pyramid Scheme” is the first song that I produced and finished in the studio. A couple of months ago, I had a few issues with management about the release of my EP, “Genesis”. They kept explaining that I always rush into things, which I do, but my response was as simple as a song by Lil Nas X. I told them that I should think for myself, which they also wanted, and that I need to look towards the future of my music career. I ended the conversation by saying one of my favorite quotes by Mac Miller, “ I’m tryna be a legend by tomorrow, they say I can’t but I’m determined to prove them wrong though”. Besides getting mad, they laughed and said “that quote will forever be your mantra”. I then focused all of that anger and dissatisfaction into a song explaining that this was my destiny. My parents named me after King Djoser, which gave me the idea to name the song “Pyramid Scheme”. For the people who knew me, they would know that I’m making my dreams a reality. For the people who are unaware of my existence, they would buy into the belief of my destined greatness. This song will bring out confidence in others and last but not least, myself.
How and when did you discover your love for music? Who are some of your greatest influences?
I grew up in a strange artistic family. My dad was an MC and my brother was an artist and a terrific bass player. My mom on the other hand didn’t have much talent in either category, but she loved all types of art. My first time ever relating to any body of work, that I remember, was when I was 7 years old listening to “Heavier Things” by John Mayer. Whenever I would walk my dog, Sara, I would grab my brother’s old portable cd player and pop that disc in. I knew all the words to every song and pretend that I was playing it live in front of thousands of people. I always knew to my heart belonged to music, but at the time I didn’t know how to write a song. So in the middle of each class, I would grab a sheet of paper and jot down whatever was on my mind at the time. It wasn’t until I listened to “+” by Ed Sheeran when I officially wrote my first song. From then to now, it still baffles me how that album shaped me to be the artist that we know and love. I grew listening to all types of music, but for me, those two albums gave me some insight to my future.
How has Totem Star helped shape you as an individual and as an artist?
Long ago, in my short lifespan, I used to give all of myself to people who didn’t deserve it. I never knew that was a bad thing until they used my kindness for weakness. By the time I joined Totem Star, I was completely selfish, erratic, and ashamed to be my true self. It wasn’t until I met Daniel Pak, co-founder of Totem Star, when I realized that my position wasn’t that different from anybody else. I learned to love myself more and though I still struggle with self acceptance, and anger management, I can count on my peers to lift me up and to boost my ego. Once I became sure of myself, I started to produce my own music and cultivate my own sound. None of that would’ve been possible if I didn’t have the love and support of the Totem Star family.
What are your current goals and aspirations? Where do you see yourself in the next year? In the next two years?
My current goal is to exceed my own expectations, so as of next year, I don’t know where I’ll be exactly. Two years from now will be a completely different phase of my life. I have a strong feeling that by that time I will have a breakout song, a tour, and a couple of pretty ladies that will take advantage of my sweet and innocent soul. Just like Tupac, “All Eyes on Me”.
ZOSER
Zoser is a singer/songwriter and music bender with a soulful voice, thoughtful lyrics, and a guitar. As an up and coming Seattle artist, Zoser began playing guitar when he was just 10-years-old. By the age of 12, he began penning his own lyrics and performing to local audiences in his hometown of Augusta, Georgia before relocating to Seattle where he graduated from West Seattle High School in 2018. By culling and synthesizing seemingly disparate musical forms and influences, Zoser has crafted a sound that is wholly and undeniably his own. The result is something spectacular to behold: a voice that conveys a world-weary ache and a bright optimism, and a sense of musicality that is both rhythmic and infectiously melodic. He is a singer, a storyteller and something of a revelation – not necessarily a soul singer but something more rare and precious – a singer with soul.
You can follow Zoser @zoserofficial
Breakthrough
(from left to right) Zoser (Photo Source: SassyBlack’s Soul Selection), Mirabai Kukathas (Photo by Amber Zbitnoff), J Blanco (Photo Source: The Residency), Lady Saigon (Photo by: Sarah Nguyen), kidLIO (Photo by: Olivia Lohmann), Aurelio Valdez (Photo by: José)
To celebrate our 2nd anniversary of ‘The Song’, we wanted to highlight our Totem Star artists that collaborated together to create “Breakthrough.” Written by Zoser, Mirabai Kukathas, LIO (formerly kidLIO), and Pak, and performed by Lady Saigon (formerly known as Pink Anbu), Mirabai Kukathas, LIO, Aurelio, and J Blanco, “Breakthrough” is a song that speaks volumes.
THE PERFORMERS
Lady Saigon, Mirabai Kukathas, LIO, Aurelio Valdez, J Blanco
LADY SAIGON
What's your story? Where did you grow up?
I was born and raised in White Center a.k.a. Rat City.
I come from a household of Vietnamese immigrants and refugees and am one of the first of my people to be born on American soil. Even though I was born and raised in America, English wasn't my first language. Growing up my parents told many stories about the war and famine in Vietnam, the ill intent of its communist government, but more importantly, the culture of it's people. Which gave me a dual mentality on world and social issues. I guess you could say it has made me more open to passion and compassion.
When did music/ singing/ rapping first get introduced to you?
My parents always karaoke’d to Vietnamese music at home. If you don't know what that sounds like, it's a lot of saxophone, cha cha, and ballads, so that was my introduction to music.
My brother and cousins on the other hand would always be playing rap and hip hop. Soulja Boy's "crank dat" is coming to mind. My uncle used to also bump a lot of Snoop Dogg.
I remember being 7 when my older brother played Kanye's "Heartless", I thought it was the most amazing sound ever. It spoke to my heart and I didn't know why. I still think it is one of the best to this day.
My first time singing was actually when my brother and cousin bought the video game “rock band.” They never let me play the guitar or drums, so I was stuck with the mic. Which led me to realize how much I loved to sing.
How would you describe your singing/ rapping style?
I don't really have a style. I'll rap/sing on anything. It don't matter. All with love.
What have you learned from your experience with Totem Star? What are some of the biggest take aways?
Totem Star gives a platform, power in voice, and countless opportunities to people who don't normally have the tools. As an artist, there is always space to grow and learn. They've made me realize I could make a living out of what I love to do which is so powerful. They make such a large impact on the low income community, especially for people who don't have the privilege or ability to access such things. They teach you how to leap and then you do it.
LIO
As this was one of your last Totem Star recordings, what were your feelings during this time? What were you looking forward to, cherishing, excited for, etc.
I wasn't thinking of it as my definite last recording, so I treated it with the same care and intensity that I usually would-- obsessing over word choice, pitch and harmonies from singers, if I sounded honest enough. When you're stepping away from something that consumed your life for so long in a beautiful way, you wonder if you'll ever find anything as beautiful again. But before I even thought about that, I was cherishing the process of being deep in love with something of mine that I created from the depths of my pain (past or present). Even if I never listened to it again it would always be a staple in time for me that made me proud of my progress.
Is music still apart of your life in college? What future ambitions do you have in your art & career?
I love music all the same. I'm not in college currently for music which I believe is healthy because I always want to bring something new to my musical artistry and a lot of time near it can make one repetitive. However, as for future ambitions, I've been really focusing on my absolute devotion to film; nothing is competitive in film the way music becomes in my opinion, it's just people making beautiful things and I'm hoping to use my love for music to be a curator of the soundtrack for one of my own movies, or help produce an album in the future, that sort of thing. I think rapping and singing has become more of a hobby for me, I'm definitely a more behind-the-scenes person which I'm in love with.
MIRABAI
What's your story? Where did you grow up, when did music/singing/rapping first get introduced to you?
I was born in Seattle but I moved to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia when I was a baby and I lived there until I was four, when I moved back to Seattle. I moved again when I was eleven (this time to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam) before once again moving back to Seattle to start high school. Through all of this, music has been part of my life and a part of me. I think a lot of artistic people say things like "oh, i've been dancing since before I could walk" or "I've been painting since I was a baby" or something like that, but while it may be cliche, the same is true for me. I've been singing since I was able to make a sound. It's just always felt like the most natural thing; a way to make myself happy
How would you describe your singing/ rapping style?
I grew up on my dad's music, namely 60s and 70s rock, folk, soul, blues, bluegrass, and country. I have a deep respect for all kinds of music so I try to blend genres and create a sound that's unique to me and is the best way to tell my story. But if you know me, you know that I'm slightly obsessed with 60s folk legend and human rights activist, Joan Baez, so I guess you could say that my style is pretty inspired by her.
What have you learned from your experience with Totem Star? What are some of the biggest takeaways?
I wasn't very confident in my ability as a musician or in my value as a person before I came to Totem Star. It's given me a family of musicians and smart mentors who love me and more opportunities than I could ever hope to have. It's helped me to realize that I have a beautiful voice but also that i matter beyond it.
During this time, you were experiencing vocal pain. How did you learn to overcome this during the recording process? Any lessons for self-care learned?
Yeah, so almost exactly one year ago I started having this pain in my throat. My voice felt raw and tired all the time. Always like I was sick or had just spent the past hour yelling at the top of my lungs. I've gone to a lot of doctors, completely augmented my diet and lifestyle, and it's gotten better but it hasn't completely gone away. When we were recording “Breakthrough” we still weren't completely sure about what was wrong with my throat. Every day was a total crapshoot. Would my throat hurt a lot or only a little bit? Would I be able to sing fine without anyone noticing or would I not be able to produce a note? It made me really nervous and then really scared and then just really sad. And I'm still working through that. Still going to lots of doctors, still usually experiencing some vocal pain, and still abiding by those restrictive diet-and-lifestyle changes. I guess what I did to "cope" was 1) be really strict with myself and follow every rule my doctors had laid out for me, 2) CONSTANTLY drinking water and/or throat coat tea and 3) try to stay calm.
What's one accomplishment you've had with Totem Star?
Writing, recording, and producing my original music.
What's something you've always dreamed of doing with your art?
I mean, hell: what artist doesn't wanna be famous? To play on the biggest stage in front of a thousand people who adore you? To record with the (Italian chef kiss) best equipment and have the most artistic freedom? Sure, I want that. But I'd also happily settle for just being able to keep making art. For my art to keep making me and the people around me happy. And (here's the most farfetched part) to be able to afford to live in Seattle with the money I make as an artist.
AURELIO VALDEZ
You're a part of so many programs and extracurricular activities on top of school. How do you balance out so many commitments while still having time for your artistry?
Balancing everything I do is a challenge. I often find myself being overwhelmed. The best way I know how to balance everything out is to keep two things in mind in everything I do: fight for people and fight for myself. Often times these lines between the two blur. When I do this it makes the tired nights and exhaustion all worth it in the end. I also keep in mind how intentional I am in everything I do. I have to be equally as intentional with myself. This means taking care of myself through things such as therapy, playing video games, hanging out with friends, or sleeping in.
What's one accomplishment you've had with Totem Star?
Biggest accomplishment I had with totem star was definitely collaborating with everyone for FESTA, it was my first time directly involving myself with Totem Star and overall first firm collaborating with everyone in my artistry to this extent.
THE SONGWRITERS
Mirabai Kukathas, Zoser, LIO, Pak
MIRABAI
The process of writing this song was a collaboration. Tell us what yall's process was collaborating? What is this song about?
We actually had to write this song for an Arts Corps fundraiser. It was kind of a pain to write; it took forever. There were so many people involved in the writing process, all of whom write very differently than me. (I wrote the intro-verse and the bridge and I helped with a few other words and phrases, but the rest of the song was written by Zoser and LIO.) Everyone was always busy and finding time to write and practice was hard. But when the song came together it felt really true and special and I had nothing but love for everyone who helped make it real. When we recorded it I just felt so blessed.
BIOGRAPHIES
LADY SAIGON
Lady Saigon (formerly known as Pink Anbu), Sarah Maria Tu Nguyen Mai is an American singer, songwriter. Born and raised in Seattle, Washington. Previously known as Pink Anbu before later changing her name to Lady Saigon in 2019. She loves basketball and bringing concern to world and social politics.
LIO
LIO is 18, ready and thriving. Her interest for social justice led her to the arts and her passion for the arts led her to herself. LIO uses psychology and personal adversity to create multimedia art that brings her to center and that resonates in the hearts of others. Her love for creativity is everlasting.
MIRABAI
Seattle born and everywhere-raised, Mirabai Kukathas has been a singer all her life. She loves nothing (other than perhaps garlic fries) more than stories, no matter the medium in which they are told. Her music is an act of healing; a confusing celebration of her culture, identity, and life. With lots of love, effort, and community, she works to blend folk, pop, jazz, soul, and a lil rock n roll to tell her own unique story.
J BLANCO
J Blanco is a producer/multi-instrumentalist from West Seattle. He gets inspiration from tons of different music, which really shows in the music hes make. Some of his influences are 9th Wonder, Nick Mira, Sidepce, Mac Ayres, Royce David, and many more. He plays trumpet, piano, guitar, bass, drums and ukulele, all self taught.
AURELIO VALDEZ
Aurelio Valdez is a Mexican-American Seattle born Hip Hop artist with a potent style. With a range of topics spanning from politics and history to identity and his upbringing, Aurelio’s music focuses on what it means to truly embody Hip Hop culture by empowering himself and his people. His alluring lyrics provoke thought and reveal his love for Hip Hop culture with every track.
ZOSER
Zoser is a singer/songwriter and music bender with a soulful voice, thoughtful lyrics, and a guitar. As an up and coming Seattle artist, Zoser began playing guitar when he was just 10-years-old. By the age of 12, he began penning his own lyrics and performing to local audiences in his hometown of Augusta, Georgia before relocating to Seattle where he graduated from West Seattle High School in 2018. By culling and synthesizing seemingly disparate musical forms and influences, Zoser has crafted a sound that is wholly and undeniably his own. The result is something spectacular to behold: a voice that conveys a world-weary ache and a bright optimism, and a sense of musicality that is both rhythmic and infectiously melodic. He is a singer, a storyteller and something of a revelation – not necessarily a soul singer but something more rare and precious – a singer with soul.
Nikai
Nikai works on her new song, “Peace Of Mind” with Pak. Photo taken by Amy Piñon.
Nikai is an artist, poet, songwriter, and singer from Bellevue, Washington. She uses music to give space to herself to heal and to tell her stories and experiences. This past summer, we were honored to be able to work with Nikai and to have her be featured for our 23rd installment of The Song.
What's the name of your latest song?
My latest and very first song created is called, “Peace Of Mind”, inspired by Lauryn Hill’s version, “I Gotta Find Peace Of Mind”. I would recognize her as one of my inspirations for creating music.
Tell us what your song is about. What inspired you? How do you hope listeners will receive your messages?
Now I am totally aware of how art is very subjective, so however the audience interprets my music is neither wrong or right, but what inspired my song is an experience with a fellow boy who came into my life and kinda shook things up. All I wanted and needed was to find peace within myself to truly be content instead of being dependent on him for it. When I let him have so much power over my emotions, it kinda took a toll on me to the point where I didn’t feel like I was in control of my own happiness.
What was the process of creating this song like?
The song was first actually a short poem, because before i got into this program I only identified as a poet, and it then became bigger and formed into a whole song. I had to opportunity to learn about song-making and cadence because of Pak and Paul. Now I identify as both a poet as well as a songwriter! There are a lot of similarities between creating a poem and a song but the differences are also significant.
Tell us a little about how you discovered your love for music. Who are some of your greatest influences?
What got me into music was most likely because i was always surrounded by it - whether it was bumping to some R&B and Hip Hop at a cookout on my moms side of the family or being in my school choir. As I mentioned before, the beautiful Lauryn Hill is one of my favorite artists. Frank Ocean is another as well. That dude is just a lyrical genius and he’s had a big influence on me, especially during this time of my life. Being young, experiencing love for the first time, and just trying to find my purpose. Music basically just runs through my veins and I couldn’t imagine a world with out it. It’s the reason why I’m still here.
What have you learned from your experience with Totem Star? What are some of the biggest take aways?
What I learned from Totem Star and the great influencers from there is that I have a gift. The way I express myself to the world is different and unique and I have a light that I’ve always kinda tried to dim in order to make others feel comfortable. But I realized that I can’t hide my greatness and my complexities. This is who I am and the people meant to be in my life will be there.
What are some dreams and aspirations that you would like to reach one day?
I just want my art to make someone feel something, and have it mean something to someone. Even if it’s just one person I’m impacting. Whatever that feeling or meaning is I want it to contribute to the feeling of being alive, not merely surviving but truly living. For example, Frank Ocean makes me cry, some may associate that as a negative thing but for me it’s an act of healing. I want to help heal.
ZAG
ZAG, real name Amr Awwad, is a hip-hop artist, poet, and DJ originally from Zagazig, Egypt. He uses music to give uplift and bring hope to his people back home and to all those in the diaspora. Here he is to talk about his new song series , Prisoner Pt. 1 & 2
Tell us about your song. What inspired you? How do you hope listeners will receive your messages?
The track was partly inspired by Arabian Knightz' song, Prisoner, which is also about the Egyptian revolution. The Prisoner series tells a story of the Egyptian people's fight for freedom and democracy. It takes place during the events of the Jan 25th Revolution in 2011 that ousted a dictator of 30 years, till our current day where we have another dictator in office. I believe that the revolution hasn't ended, even though it's been 8 years, because the corruption and oppression are still the same. I wrote this song to tell my people's story of resistance for those who might not know about us; to put Zagazig and Egypt on the map. I also wrote this to be a voice for my friends back home who can't talk about these things themselves due to government media censorship.
What was one of your first experiences with music that made you want become a creator instead of just a listener?
It's actually a pretty funny story: I've always been a Hip-Hop listener since I was a kid; it's always been my favorite genre. I used to write poetry as a pastime, inspired by music that I would listen to. I always knew I had a thing for performing and putting myself out there since I was a kid, as I would always practice rapping my favorite songs in front of the mirror to show off my "skills" to my friends. But one day a friend of mine told me that he didn’t think I could ever write my own music, that I could only copy others. I took it as a challenge, and lo and behold, I wrote my first song, titled "Run The Game”, at age 12. Looking back, it was very corny, but a decent effort given it's my first song.
(How) has Totem Star helped shape you as person and as an artist? How have your other communities (family, friends, country, city, etc) shaped you in those same ways?
Ever since I moved to Seattle from Zagazig 4 years ago, Totem Star has always, undeniably, been the best part of me living here. Coming alone without my family, I always came to the studio to feel homey. And I'm very grateful for everyone at the studio for making me feel welcomed. In Egypt, we're taught that family is very important, and I'm glad that in Totem Star we have those same values. As an artist, Pak, Thaddeus, and Paul always pushed us to try new things; working with other people and making our own beats instead of ripping them from Youtube. That's how I ended up producing the Prisoner series with them. Without Totem Star I'd probably still be performing in front of my mirror for the most part, instead of getting stage time that's much needed for artists like me.
Mirabai Kukathas
Photo Credit: Amber Zbitnoff
Seattle born and everywhere-raised, Mirabai Kukathas has been a singer all her life. She loves nothing (other than perhaps garlic fries) more than stories, no matter the medium in which they are told. Her music is an act of healing; a confusing celebration of her culture, identity, and life. With lots of love, effort, and community, she works to blend folk, pop, jazz, soul, and a lil rock n roll to tell her own unique story.
What was one of your first experiences with music that made you want to become a creator? Why do you create music?
I don’t have a dramatic moment when I realized that I loved to sing. I think I was born with the knowledge (or maybe the instinct) that I needed to sing. Even before I could speak I was already babbling the lyrics and melody to the hit song “Old McDonald Had a Farm.” Singing has always just been what I do. Growing up I’d sing as I walked and sing at my desk in school (much to the chagrin of my classmates) and I’d make up little songs about whatever I did or felt. I’d sing to calm myself down when I was scared or anxious. I still do that. Singing has always just felt natural. I’ve always known it’s what I’m supposed to do and I always figured it would be what I did (at least in some capacity) for the rest of my life. As I got older I started to realize how much of myself I could communicate through music. I realized that if music could heal me maybe I could use it to help heal other people too, or at least allow them to feel some release or empathy or relatability.
Tell us about your process creating this song?
How this song came into existence actually starts almost two years ago with the amazing kidLIO. She texted me one day and said “I've written these lyrics and I think I want you to sing it.” So the next time we were together in the studio she showed me the lyrics. Almost immediately a melody came to me and I just started singing it. I related to every lyric she’d written and honestly, it just felt like the music poured out of me. It was really a beautiful day.
I wrote a short bridge for the song (which is really just an extended pun) and figured out some simple ukulele chords and then I did not record it. I performed it at a handful of open mics and showcases but I didn’t feel confident enough in myself to record it and anyways I was super busy. Then, at the beginning of this past school year, I made a resolution to start actually using the studio, because despite having been an intern for over a year I had never really used it.
Between my crappy health, busy school schedule, and tendency to overthink every step of the process, it took me the better part of a year to record, mix, and master this song. It was a rough experience and I really hated that song some days, but Matt and Pak were there with me every step of the way and I learned a lot from the whole process.
What is the song about?
To me, the song is about feeling like you're not enough for someone you care about. It's about liking someone so much it hurts. It gives you a bellyache and a headache and all the aches. I think it’s all very relatable. I think a lot of people of all ages have felt that weird jumble of emotions where they think “I want to love this person and I want them to love me but I don't feel like I'm good enough for them and/or they’re not very nice to me and also I'm also very nervous when I'm around them but I really really like them.” It’s about young and confusing emotions.
It’s a very sweet song and I feel honored to be part of the collaborative process that made it. LIO has always said it’s my song, and it does feel very personal to me in both content and also because of the arduous process of producing it, but really, truly it’s a collaboration. It has LIO’s beautiful lyrics, Pak and Matt helped me produce and arrange it, and I wrote the melody and a few lyrics and do my best to sing it with truth and power. The song really feels like a testament to collaboration and to this family that we have at Totem Star.
Gray Luvay
Gray Luvay is an independent pop singer-songwriter from the Seattle area
What was one of your first experiences with music that made you want become a creator instead of a listener?
Music has always been a passion of mine since I was a small child. I grew up listening to mostly 90’s and 2000’s hip hop, west coast hip hop, pop and alternative rock. Being from a Hispanic family, Mexican music has always been an influence to me. My love for creating started in second grade though. I went to a low income elementary school on the central coast of California. My school just got a piano that was falling apart; I don’t even think it was tuned correctly, but I would just play and play whenever I could. I would come up with improved melodies and then preform them for my teachers later on (I’m sure I hurt their ears playing for them but it meant so much to me).
My love for music took off and shortly after I started playing the clarinet with my schools band. Which only had about four other people playing instruments. Shortly after, I was introduced to this free community youth orchestra called Yosal that helped underprivileged youth to play an Instrument, read music and learn how to play and perform. They taught classical history and other genres of music and the history behind them. I picked up different instruments while I was there and grew an ear for music.
In late elementary and early middle school I would write poetry and popish raps in my notebooks. My grandma at the time had a piano at her house, I would go over there and write melodies to my poetry and lyrics and would come up with songs like that. A few years later I moved to Washington state in eighth grade and had to completely start my life over. I hated it but I always felt safe when I had my clarinet or piano with me. I played clarinet from eighth grade to my sophomore year and I think it was sophomore year that I really wanted to start taking my own song writing seriously.
Tell us about your song. What inspired you? Tell us about the theme of the music video. How do you hope listeners will receive your messages?
The song “Remidiez” is about leaving your bad self destructive cycles in the past. It’s about being a teen and having fun with your friends, but also having so much fun you loose sight of what really matters. It’s about wanting to leave that all behind to go after your dreams. I was inspired by my past, especially my early to mid-teen years. I wasn’t in the best place in life but it got to the point where I had enough and wanted to heal. I was shown a different path and I hope I can inspire someone to take that golden path too. In 2016 I went to my first big concert, it was a really spiritual experience for me. It inspired me a lot to where I wanted to stop what I was doing all together and go after what made me the happiest, which was music. It was a new beginning for me and I wanted to write a song about my past destructive ways to help me set my choice in stone.
How has Totem Star helped shape you as an individual and as an artist?
Totem Star has totally inspired and motivated me a lot. I just recently moved to the area and I heard about the program through a friend. I signed up and had no idea what to expect but I was in for a surprise. From the first day I stepped in I was welcomed by everyone. The mentors and students were so friendly and accepting towards me. The energy of the space pulled me in so much. Not to be cheesy, but it was like gut feeling that felt light and beautiful in some way. It felt like I was supposed to be a part of this. I’m so glad I stuck with my gut feeling because I have met so many talented, inspiring, uplifting, motivating, supportive people along this journey and it’s all thanks to Totem star. The mentors are just fantastic and uplifting and I really appreciate. Being a part of Totem Star has also helped me step out of my comfort zone and has pushed me to be more expressive with my music and individuality.
What advice would you give to other young artists?
Don’t stop creating. The world needs more color and creative sound. Don’t pay attention to other people’s progress, it will stop your focus. Write when you don’t have motivation, it will train you to be a better writer and creative. The only person that is stopping you in your work is you and your negative thoughts. Don’t doubt your vision because someone else might be needing to hear or see that vision.
Just be you with your music, don’t copy or try to be something that isn’t you because when you’re not living YOUR truth, you’re just following the herd and where’s the originality in that?
Annual Retreat
Top L-R: Daniel Pak, Brian Myers, Carrie Siahpush, Krista Welch, Jon Stone, Amr Awwad, Wendy Simmons, Thaddeus Turner, Mirabai Kukathas. Bottom L-R: April Nishimura, Matt Sablan, Barbara Mitchell, Zoser Dunbar, Shawna Angelou, Paul Laughlin.
By Daniel Pak
On Sunday, March 31 our board, staff, and interns took over a conference room at The Collective, a dope social club, workspace, and “urban basecamp” in the heart of South Lake Union for our annual retreat. Rainier Valley Corps Director of Capacity Building April Nishimura started it off with a comprehensive assessment of Totem Star based on an organization-wide survey. Here’s a quick summary of the results:
Top Strengths
- Our staff does their job well and work as a team.
- Our work is strongly informed by diversity, equity, and inclusion.
- We have a strong board, deeply invested in our mission, values, and strategic planning.
Top Needs
- Space! We’ve outgrown our 225 square foot space and recently launched a New HQ Task Force.
- Fundraising with a specific emphasis on individual donors.
- More staff members to support our work and life balance.
Thanks for the presentation April! Board President Jon Stone then led us on an amazing ride up a bell curve of strategic planning. We dug deep into who we are (value proposition), the ecosystem in which we exist (industry structure map), variables that affect our organization (context map), and some aspirational goals (five bold steps). So much to dive into, and thanks to an amazing lunch from Marination, we made it!
Totem Star is currently in a phase of growth, but no matter how much we grow as a community and as an organization, we will always be a family. It brought so much fulfillment and joy to see our deeply engaged board of directors, our caring and hard-working staff, and our inquisitive and inspired young interns all in the same room together, planning the future of Totem Star.
L-R: Deputy Director Paul Laughlin, Amr “ZAG” Awwad, Teaching Artist and Program Coordinator Matt Sablan, Zoser Dunbar (cheesing), Mirabai Kukathas
It’s a blessing to be working with such loving folks, and to close I want to share a quote by a high school history teacher who recently brought his class to Totem Star to interview our artists for their project on race in 21st century America. Later in the evening after the visit he wrote me and said, “Still reflecting on our conversation. You have a good group of people you get to spend time with - people who seem filled with purpose and joy. I aspire to the same.”
Amr “ZAG” Awwad. Photo by Daniel Pak.
Zoser Dunbar. Photo by Daniel Pak.
Mirabai Kukathas. Photo by Daniel Pak.
Primoe
What was one of your first experiences with Hip-Hop that made you become a creator instead of a listener?
Probably my friends, just wanting to make music and we would freestyle. Chill, freestyle… After a certain point they told me I was good at freestyles and suggested that I start rapping seriously.
If you could describe your genre of music to an unknowing public, how would you describe it?
Depends, ‘cause like— a mix of grunge R&B. Retro, boom-bap hustle.
Tell us what we should know about your upcoming releases; are they inspired by other musical influences?
Yes, they are inspired mainly by the whole West Coast; DJ Quik, Mausberg, Biggie, etc. I’m working on an album called L.E.V.A [Losing Everyone to Violence on the Avenue], which is about gang violence and growing up, not following the same path as past family members.
How has Totem Star helped shape you as an individual and as an artist?
Totem Star has definitely taught me not to be shy and keep my voice out there. Before, I was really shy and I don’t think I would be where I am without Totem Star. Or I’d still be struggling to upload my songs.
Songwriting and Inspiration
Totem Star Artist, ZAG shares about his process for songwriting and the inspiration when it comes to writing your own material.
By Amr “ZAG” Awwad
Yo, ZAG here with another Music Biz blog. This time we’re covering songwriting and the inspiration when it comes to writing your own material. As a Hip-Hop artist, we often have the highest bar to set when it comes to intricate lyricism and uniqueness. Although you may not see that being the case when it comes to many rappers in our mainstream. Anyway, that’s a topic for another day!
Today I’ll be going through my own process of songwriting with ya’ll and some tips and tricks that I’ve learned since I started spitting in 6th grade.
You Don’t Always Have To Rhyme
Remember that time when you were in 3rd grade and you were asked to write a poem? And all you could think of is “The Fat Cat ate a Black Bat then sat on my Lap.” Yeah, turns out you don’t always have to do this. More important than rhyming is actually creating a scenario with your words that also happen to fit on a beat.
“Making all of this money hoping I don't get rich
Cause ni**as still getting bodied for foams
Sometimes the truth don't rhyme
Sometime the lies get millions of views”
- Chance The Rapper on “Acid Rain”
Yes, rhyming is obviously an integral part of songwriting for the most part, but remember lyricsdon’t always have to rhyme. Rhyming can even curb your creativity, especially if you find yourself trying too hard, because it can keep you distracted from finishing the idea you’re trying to write down.
You Can Rhyme the Ends with the Beginnings
You can take the last word you used in your first sentence and instead of trying to rhyme it with the next one, you can build up your story by rhyming that word with the first word in the next sentence and build up a new rhyme scheme from there.
“Life was stagnant for a 9th grade cat with a heart for rappin’
No Cappin’, only beanies with American Flags
Corrupted by whitewashed American standards, yes
So I packed my bags and headed West”
- ZAG
Here, I’m talking about how I wanted to pursue a career in “Rappin’” followed by the rhyme, “No Cappin’” which means “No lie” but also literally no caps; as at the time I only wore beanies with American flags on them. A double entendre and a true story.
You Can Continue Your Line Into the Next Bar
When I started writing my own raps, I always thought every line had to end at the end of the bar. I thought it was a very strict art form, until I met MF DOOM. A rather ugly brother with flows that's gorgeous, he became some sort of an inspiration for me when it comes to rapping outside of the box. There really isn’t much to say about it, you have to listen to him yourself to know what I’m saying.
Kendrick Lamar is also really good with this, I suggest you check out “Sing About Me, Dying of Thirst” from his album, Good Kid M.A.A.D City
When it comes to inspiration, there’s a huge difference between inspiration and biting. You can be inspired by other artists’ lyrics and persona, but it becomes biting when you copy someone’s exact lyrics. Kinda similar to writing an essay, where you can cite other authors (inspiration) in an essay (song) without completely copying them.
An excellent example of a piece of art that’s heavily inspired by other artists without losing its integrity is Lin Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton. Lin Manuel Miranda made sure to litter Hip-Hop references throughout the play as to pay respects to those that shaped black music, especially that most of the cast for Hamilton are indeed black and brown themselves.
An example of this would be 10 Duel Commandments in Hamilton that is a take on Biggie’s 10 Crack Commandments. You can listen to both below and see that even though one is inspired by the other, they are both still two separate bodies of work, and the only way to notice it is if you know both songs.
There are some wrong ways in which you can bite someone else’s lyrics. Sometimes certain rappers can get too lazy and just keep ripping lines from one of their dead friends. Yeah, it’s really sad, but Joey Bada$$ isn’t really making this easy for us when he keeps recycling lyrics from his late friend Jamal Dewar, also known as Capital STEEZ.
“Teach her many lessons
Reduce the stress and balance out the imperfections”
- Joey Bada$$ on “500 Benz”
“I got these bi***es stressing
I never love 'em, I just balance out they imperfections”
- Capital STEEZ on “Vinyls”
“Unfortunately, I am not that type of niglet
But pass the pot, let me skillet”
- Joey Bada$$ on “1Train”
“Keep a stash even when my pockets was looking thin
So pass the pot and let me skillet”
- Capital STEEZ on “Chicago”
There are many other instances where Joey is stealing lyrics from STEEZ without paying proper respect, to the point where STEEZ even prophesied this in his last song recorded 10 days before his untimely death.
“How you not going to give me mine, every time I rip a line
I haven't seen the limelight, in a right mind
Rappers base their careers off of white lies
A ghost writer been why he so nice
And the time he spit some of his lines it's no concept”
- Capital STEEZ on “Last Straw”
I don’t think there’s harm in taking certain lines from other artists if you’re planning on crediting them somehow in your music, whether that be Lin Manuel Miranda’s way by making obvious Hip-Hop references throughout Hamilton, or interpolating lyrics, like how I do in one of my poems.
“Raising generations of youth that speak truth to power
Telling the Nas from the hilltop that this world is ours”
- ZAG on “Yesterday”
Nas means people in Arabic, my mother tongue. It’s also the name of the Queensbridge Hip-Hop legend, who has a song called “The World is Yours” off his debut album Illmatic. So I’m interpolating that in my song while still mentioning Nas, as a way of paying respect.
So there ya go! Hopefully my tips are going to come in handy the next time you pick up a pen and pad. Also, I’ll be leaving one extra link relating to what I’ve been writing about in case you’re interested in doing more research on your own.
Zoser
By: Edgar Vega
Tell us a little about how you discovered your love for music. Who are some of your greatest influences?
My first album that I ever listened to was heavier things by John Mayer. After realizing how much the record meant to me. I began to put words on pages. My biggest influences are Ed Sheeran, John Mayer, and Mac Miller.
Tell us about your song. What inspired you? How do you hope listeners will receive your messages.
Ms. Valentine is a basic love that I wrote after chasing someone for a long time. I compare the love to drugs to explain the addiction that I felt for that person. I hope that listeners will relate to it!
What have you learned from your experience with Totem Star? What are some of the biggest take aways?
During my time at Totem Star I've learned to be one with others. I love this community with all my heart and as I grow along with the people I trust. I know who will be there for me during the fall.
Throwback: Winter Magic
Winter Magic 2018 was a blast!!
Performer & Host Mirabai
By Zoser
With the lovely Mirabai hosting, her casual jokes and love for Christmas lifted the spirits of the crowd. Ran by the interns of Totem Star, the night behind the scenes went smoothly. It was a very different experience for me and rapper, Primoe, with us being stage managers. Most of our lives we’ve been the act, but to manage the acts themselves was a challenge. The constant running around made us feel like we were apart of something that we were building.
ZAG spitting truth
Luckily it wasn’t just us who were dictating where the vibe of the night went. Our DJ and Totem Star artist, ZAG, displayed his knowledge of music while on the decks. According to ZAG, “It’s always good to be a DJ because I get to dictate what the mood will be like.” Mirabai calls ZAG a “benevolent mastermind.” He even played “A Whole New World” off of the Aladdin soundtrack to make me feel like a cloud in the sky. The night was elegant and benefited Totem Star as a whole. With the many donations that we received, Totem Star will live to see many more days, and years!!!
Teaching Artist Matt and Totem Star Artist Primoe
I took one thing to heart that night. My family is more than just my mom, or my grandmother. It’s the community that brought me in when I felt alone. It’s the community that let the artist be true to themselves. It’s the community that makes us want to show what we’re all about. Totem Star will be my family for as long as I’m alive; and Winter Magic will be the biggest memory that I’ll have of them.
Totem Star Artist Zoser performing Small Worlds by Mac Miller
Kiddus
Kiddus performing at Sky Church at MoPOP for The 2018 Residency Showcase. Photo Credit: The Residency
By: Edgar Vega
Tell us a little about how you discovered your love for music. Who are some of of your greatest influences?
My old high school had a piano class with keyboards, macs, midis, and mics. We had to create a hip-hop track as a class project. Our objective was to write a hot 16, hook and produce a beat for it on GarageBand. I was inspired to continue. Weeks later, I started producing for more students who rapped in the school. I am/was influenced by Pharrell Williams, Kid Cudi, Kanye West, and Travis Scott.
Tell us about your song. What inspired you? How do you hope listeners will receive your message?
They Tell Me is a song I wrote about my my adolescence in the Hillman City area. I plan to render my message through songwriting, and the visuals.
What have you learned from your experience with Totem Star? What are some of the biggest takeaways?
Create music that’s authentic to you.
What’s ZAG listening to?
By: Edgar Vega
What song do you currently have on repeat and why do you like it?
I have this album that I'm listening to at the moment. It's Drogas Wave by Lupe Fiasco, which was released last September. The first half of the album tells a story of slaves during the transatlantic slave trade whom were on board of a sinking slave ship. Instead of drowning, they grew gills and are able to breathe and live underwater. They were called Longchains. Armed with long chains for arms, hence their name, they proceeded to drown other slave ships to free their people from slavery. Some decided to run back to Africa's shores, while others are supposedly present to this day in the middle of the Atlantic, guarding the waters. The second half of the album relates to current life of African Americans in this country, as a sequel 400 years later to the first part of the album.
The reason I'm in love with this album and consider it my favorite, is not only because of what I said earlier, but also because of the complexity of Lupe's lyrics and how he could tell a story so vivid only though words. I can proceed to visualize in my head what he's saying. Also, every time I listen to the album, I discover something totally new in what he's saying; and that's the beauty of Hip-Hop poetry.
How would you describe your music preference in general? What qualities make a song truly great?
My music preference in terms of Hip-Hop, I'd say I like Boom Bap and Lo-Fi, or anything that is sample based. Yeah, I listen to the occasional Young Thug when I'm tryna turn up, but for the most part my favorite artists are the J Coles, Kendrick Lamars, and the Black Thoughts. I've also been lately into R&B after listening to some of SiR's stuff and that new Anderson.Paak joint, Oxnard.
How does the music you listen to affect the music you make?
Lately, I've been drawing a lot of my inspiration from J Dilla and Lupe Fiasco. With Lupe, his lyricism motives me to up mine. I'm mesmerized by his worldplay, and I always aim to be more lyrical, while not reaching a point where people won't understand what I'm saying. Because what's the point of using complex worldplay if no one will be able to understand it, right? As for Dilla, his instrumentals don't need words for me to understand what he's saying. It's like his beats teach me how to vibe with the listener, and that I don't always need to be explicit with my message for people to understand what I'm saying.
Vrhilio
By: Edgar Vega
Whos Virg?
Hi my name is Virgilio Carbajal, my stage name is Vrhilio & I’m an artist.
Tell us a little about how you discovered your love for music. Who are some of your greatest influences?
I discovered my love for music when I would literally remember all the words to any song I would ever listen and I would become my own radio sometimes and just replay songs in my head all the time! Nothing else would be in my head, just music. My greatest influences are mostly, Notorious B.I.G to Tyler The Creator to Andre 3000 to Mac Miller, I’d say, they are all great artist.
Tell us about your song. What inspired you? How do you hope listeners will receive your messages.
Bojack is literally just a song about not listening to anybody who puts you down, especially your friends and family, Man, cause even your best est friends can disagree with your vision and not support you in a way.
What have you learned from your experience with Totem Star? What are some of the biggest take aways?
What I have learned from Totem Star is that I should always have confidence in my music. I should be prepared for the next opportunity and I should always be able to make every moment count.
ALLI 2018 Throwback
Photo by: Amy Piñon
By Amr Awwad
Summer of 2018, I had just wrapped up an awesome month-long program with The Residency as I got into ALLI, the Arts, Leadership, and Liberation Institute. It’s a two-week intensive summer program put on by Arts Corps, Youth Speaks, Massive Monkees, and Totem Star where 28 youth are trained in artistry, social justice and organizing. Youth leaders develop as cultural workers in four arts pathways: spoken word poetry, music production, visual art and breakdance. This cohort of youth hones their arts and organizing skills, while deepening their understandings of race and social justice issues. They collaborate, build community and create art that challenges oppression and envisions a more just world. Personally, I chose the music pathway, as I wanted to learn more about how to be a DJ. But anyways, that article isn’t about me. I’m here to talk about the program, and boy, was it dope.
Photo by: Amy Piñon
At the beginning of each day, we’d have everyone in one room to partake in different activities, meshing social justice and art in our work. For example, on one day, we were split into different groups and had to work with a quote that was given to us by the teaching artists. My group’s quote was about Revolution, and we had to create a performance piece that included all 4 pathways and perform it in front of the other groups. Overall, the activities were really good at giving youth the inspiration and creative path to fuse art, in its various forms, with elements of social justice.
Photo By: Amy Piñon
In each pathway, youth would practice on refining their craft but also delve into unknown territory in terms of new skills to learn. For me, before ALLI, I had ZERO knowledge on how to DJ and what it takes to mix music. By the end of the two weeks, I was able to DJ a 30 minute set in front of over 100 people. I also grew a passion for DJing and now get to DJ at other events.
Photo By: Amy Piñon
The day of the ALLI showcase, we had many people from the community come to see what we’ve been working on. They got to see a gallery of paintings made by the visual art pathway, and also attend an open mic that was hosted by two of our poetry pathway students, Bitanya and Suraya. For the show itself, which was hosted by Kid LIO, every ALLI participant got to shine on the stage and share their unique experience through their art.
How to expand your music library
Photo Credit: Amber Zbitnoff
By: Edgar Vega
How to expand your music library
If you want to open up and listen to some new music that you aint used to but you just don't know where to start then use some of these tips.
Go off of what you like.
If you mainly listen to hip hop and you want to expand then something you can do is start by your favorite song. Hip Hop is always sampling something so if you like something from the beat you can start looking around for something similar to that. This definitely helped me when I was only stuck listening to Hip Hop.
What you've heard.
Although as of now you might be stuck thinking “I don't like anything out of Hip Hop” your wrong! I used to really really like the song “Super freak” by Rick James and I didnt know it wasn't Hip Hop. Sometimes you'll realise that a lot of the catchy songs you like that are always being played at the store arent Hip Hop so that can really be a way to start you out.
Just cannonball into it.
Sometimes you just need a jump into the unknown waters to test things out. It won't hurt to just explore if you don't like something then you don't but you'll never really know if you keep telling yourself you wish to expand but stay in the same little circle of repeated melodies and drum loops .
Thanks for reading :) Sincerely, Edgar Vega