FWD Feature: Kira Anna Lee, πΆArtist
FWD Collective is excited to announce that Kira Anna Lee will be doing a Live @ FWD performance at A Very FWD February 2021!
We had the pleasure of connecting with Kira to ask a few questions!
What does diversity, equity, and professional inclusion mean to you?
Equity means we should not only include more women and people of color, but should showcase their talents and work as well. Because of the bias and racism that exists in our society, people of color are much less likely to get recognition or commemorated for their work. We need to make a conscious effort to break down the stigmas and bias in the industry, so that we can create a better working and professional environment for everyone. Diversity should be an important part of every company, profession, and industry. There is power in diversity and equity. Professional inclusion means we should be making an effort to include all members of our staff, community, or colleagues and value their unique voice and skills. There are so many times I have been over-looked in the music industry because I am a woman. My opinion is not as valued as those of my male counterparts. Everyone deserves to be heard and have their needs, opinions, and directive considered.
How have you experienced and/or dealt with adversity in your professional and personal life?
Both the entertainment industry and music industry have their fair share of prejudice, sexism, and inequality. It is by no means easy being a woman in the music industry. I have been sexually harassed and belittled on many occasions. Often times, because of my age (I am 23) and my sex, I am taken advantage of and preyed on. I have learned the importance of standing my ground, being confident, and knowing when to decline certain opportunities when my best interest is not in mind.
There are still a lot of changes that need to be made in the industry in order to achieve equality and fair treatment of others. Women are consistently being objectified and valued based off of how we look, instead of our talents, abilities, and what we can bring to the table. I cannot tell you how many times I have been in songwriting sessions, production sessions, or on stage with an all male band, and have had my opinions or directions completely ignored. Meanwhile, a male producer would suggest the exact same edits to a song that I had already previously brought up, and they would be immediately praised and validated. But I have never given up. In a lot of ways it has given me thicker skin and taught me to be firm in what I believe in. I might have to ask several times to get a job done or for my voice to be heard, when a man needs only ask once, but I always make sure to see it through. I have learned from all of my experiences with manipulative and corrupt men and professionals in the industry that have taken advantage of me or my craft. It has helped me to weed through and find those working professionals that DO have my best interests at heart and DO believe in my music and my abilities. Through my negative experiences I have learned who and who not to trust. I have grown my knowledge of music business exponentially and work on my craft everyday. Working and collaborating with other female musicians and counterparts has helped a lot. I have learned to never let my guard down and to more importantly, value myself as an artist and individual. If you know what you are worth and what you are capable of, you are much less likely to be taken advantage of in your career and more likely to succeed.
What would be one piece of advice you would give to your younger self?
Do not trust everyone who presents you with an opportunity and always do the research first.
Name three things that you do everyday to help lead you to success.
1. Practice my craft.
2. Listen to other's opinions and perspective with consideration even if I do not agree.
3. Consistently work on my brand.
How did you "decide" to do what you do professionally? Can you share a bit about the path you took or the journey to where you are today?
I grew up in LA with two artists for parents. I was always surrounded by music, art, and other creative outlets. I knew I wanted to be a singer and songwriter from a young age and there was never any doubt in my mind that I would pursue a career in music. I devoted a lot of my time to practicing and writing songs by myself as well as collaborating with other artists and musicians. After graduating from Columbia College Chicago last year with a BA in music, I was signed by a music publisher who I am currently working with. Over the last year I have been writing and recording a lot of new material with the help of my publisher and producers. My goal is to release new music this year as I grow my following and connect with fans.
Who inspires your professional ambition? Why?
My mom is one of my biggest inspirations. She is very driven, ambitious, and passionate about what she does. She has faced a lot of adversity both in life and in her career and always handles it with vigor and professionalism. Even if she does not agree or get along with another co-worker she is still mutually respectful and listens to what they have to say so that they can create a solid working relationship.
What is your favorite book? Or the one you'd recommend most?
One of my favorites is The Langston Hughes Reader by Langston Hughes. It is a collection of some of his best poems, short stories, novels, blues, and so on. I also love Lady Sings the Blues by William Dufty and Billie Holiday.
Check out Kiraβs bio here.
