Alesia Lani
ALESIA LANI
Alesia Lani is leading the way for Austin soul and we are ecstatic to begin working with her through our Artist Development Program.
Every so often we can experience and artist who has an inherent star quality to them that makes them special, Midwest born, Austin raised soul singer Alesia Lani is one of those rare few. Combining a distinctive soulful voice with electric performances, the southern songbird has put many on alert that she is here to stay. The past two years have seen Alesia really come into her own as an artist and performer, following the release of her debut project “First Impression” Alesia capitalized on the buzz from the album to catch the eyes and ears of local tastemakers such as The Austin Chronicle (who named “First Impression as one of the Top 10 Albums of 2015) along with national blogs such as Saint Heron and Singersroom.com as well as popular magazine Rolling Out, while also performing at festivals such as SXSW, Pecan Street Festival, and 35 Denton (For which she was highlighted as having one of the best performances of the festival.). Currently, working on her highly-anticipated sophomore project “Resilient”, the award-winning vocalist is taking no time to rest as she brings a blue-collar work ethic to all aspects of her career, a quality that has shown proven results in her meteoric rise in the soul music scene. Alesia Lani is on a mission to bring soul music back, and there isn’t anything she’s willing to let get in her way.
We sat down with Alesia to learn more about what drives and inspires her.
Where do you find your biggest inspiration to create?
I find it in personal and relatable situations or feelings. Or it could simply be just the sounds I hear that spark my inspiration. I honestly like to think everything inspires me.
How has your music evolved since you first began writing and recording?
Wow, I don’t even recognize that girl anymore. My music evolved through all my growth and lessons, as well as the people around me. I feel like my younger self was more R&B, hip-hop and myself now is more soulful. Playing with a band and having musicians and the organic sounds has shaped me as well.
You’ve done a lot to bring R&B to the forefront of Austin’s music scene. What advice would you give a new artist looking to break out in an underrepresented genre?
What a compliment, thank you! I say be yourself. As corny as it may sound, it’s true. And keep people around you that feel as passionate as you do about your craft!!! It takes a village!
What is your favorite thing about the Austin music community?
I love how eclectic & warm it is!! It’s really evolving!
How has going through the Artist Development Program helped you to grow as an artist?
It’s helped me grow a lot, and also get to know more of my peers and grow with them, which makes it even better!! Being able to bounce suggestions off each other & not be afraid to pick one another’s brains.
If you could perform with any artist, living or dead, who would it be?
I’d have to say Prince, God rest his soul.
What has been your biggest musical accomplishment to date?
I’d have to say just being able to be myself musically & have y’all dig it!! Lol seriously, just being able to pour it out & have genuine folks reciprocate it is an accomplishment to me.
What are your favorite stages to play in Austin?
I love playing at Empire Garage as well as the Control Room! Also, the Parish, Antone’s, Mohawk Outdoor Stage, ACL Moody Theatre, Stubb’s lol gosh I found some new favorites this past year for sure!!!
Last but not least, how can we support you? Where can fans buy your music & merch and keep up with your shows?
Ahh everyone can find me on all music platforms & on my website www.alesialanimusic.com. And please find me on all social media platforms as well!!
