That Girl Meets LiaSimone

By Natasha Lee.

LiaSimone is a singer, songwriter, recording artist, and director from Detroit, Michigan. A young creative on a mission to make it. She's someone who's had a passion for singing all her life.

People of all ages can relate to her music at some point or another. When asked to describe herself, she says her brand+music is split in two.

The "Lia" half of her is the one who loves pop music, dancing, bright colors, etc. Whereas the "Simone" half is very dark, serious, and demanding.

LiaSimone also found a passion for the performing aspect when she joined the musical theatre in high school. That taught her the importance of stage direction, costuming, lighting, and more.

Her desire was always to put on a full show, and that's why you'll most likely see her with her background dancers. Her music consists of pop, R&B, and hip hop. Female empowerment is very important to her. One of her main goals is to inspire young girls, and to let them know that they are beautiful and worthy.

LiaSimone independently released her debut EP "Mood" in the summer of 2018, learning the importance of owning and registering all her own music. She directed and produced her first three music videos from that EP as well. LiaSimone is very involved in her craft, as she alone finds the locations, cast, and costumes for everyone involved in her visuals. In late September 2020, she released the lead single from her upcoming EP titled "Can't Be Beat".

What impact did music play on your life as a child?

Music created a space for me to be myself. It allowed me to express my inner being, and really find my purpose. Since the age of 10, I knew that I wanted to pursue music in some form. My childhood home was a place that was full of all genres of music. In my room, I constantly listened to soul and R&B, my sister loved rock and alternative music, while my parents were playing jazz and old-school hip hop. Our home taught me that music is universal, brings people together, and speaks to the soul.

Which music artists did you look up to the most while growing up?

I really looked up to Stevie Wonder and Lauryn Hill while I was growing up. Their music did a lot for me in my younger years. I give them a lot of credit on discovering why I wanted to pursue music. Boyz II Men is also a notable mention. I discovered them in middle school and would literally spend hours on my Boyz II Men Pandora station falling in love with their music. Lastly, in my teen years, Beyoncé really sparked my interest in learning all components of performing and putting on a full show.

If you could do a collaboration with any artist in the world, who would it be and why?

If I could collaborate with anyone, it would have to be Queen Bee! She is one of my biggest inspirations, and extremely knowledgeable about all aspects of the entertainment industry. She has motivated me artistically and is a big part of why I believe in never settling for less. I learned a lot about the way that I want to perform by watching her as an artist. That collab would truthfully be a dream come true!

What are some must-haves for you while in the studio?

A great team to work with is a must-have. I love being surrounded by creatives who are just as driven as I am. I usually bring my laptop or notebooks to jot down thoughts throughout the session! As I am a notebook queen, I like to have different journals for different topics. Water and tea are must-haves as well!

What is the saddest song that you've ever heard?

My personal two are “In Love with Another Man” by Jazmine Sullivan, and “A Song for You” by Donny Hathaway. “Fly Before You Fall” by Cynthia Erivo, and “Anyone” by Demi Lovato also pull at my heartstrings!

What was the best compliment you've ever received from a fan?

A lot of the compliments/praise I receive consistently fall in the same category! A great deal of people (of all ages) tell me I’m really inspiring and have pushed them to pursue their own passions. I love knowing that I motivate and inspire people to do what they really want. Next to that, many of my supporters have told me I’ve helped them gain confidence, which means the world to me!

What is a song of yours that makes you happy?

The last song from my debut EP, titled “Lost” makes me so happy! It’s funny because although it’s actually a really dark song, it’s my absolute favorite. I still love the beat, and it was also my first music video. My best friends were in it, and my family really supported me throughout the entire day, so the whole song is just attached with good memories!

How do you handle the pressure of the music industry?

It’s a constant roller coaster for me. Being an upcoming artist isn’t a walk in the park, and the entertainment industry in general can be very challenging. Although there’s been a handful of times where I felt discouraged, I remind myself that this is my purpose. The best way I handle all of the pressure is by remembering this is my God-given destiny.

In today’s age, it’s also really hard not to compare yourself to others, especially with the pressures of social media. We all have our moments, so when I start going there, I assure myself that nobody can bring what I’m going to bring.

“Remember that no one can offer the ideas, talents, and gifts you have, because they’re all yours!” – LiaSimone

Please tell us a memory about your best performance.

My best performance would have to be my release party for my debut EP “Mood”. It was so exciting having all of my friends and family in one room and performing for people who were genuinely rooting for me was one of the best feelings. At the end of my set, I invited everyone on stage to hype me up while I performed “Lost”, and we were all SO turnt. It’s still hilarious to me when I watch the throwback videos.

What would you like to say to your fans?

I’d like to say thank you a million times over to everyone who supports me. I am forever grateful for the love and encouragement I receive on a daily basis, and do not take it for granted. It means so much to me, and truly keeps me going. There’s nothing better than knowing that so many people support my journey and are inspired by the art that I make.

Keep up to date with LiaSimone by connecting on social media: @iam.liasimone

Natasha Lee is a visionary, entrepreneur and advocate for all things SHE led. She has built businesses, raised a family and worked alongside some of the most inspirational women globally.

Her #ThatGirl brand is all about strong female leadership, and she wears what she preaches! Have you seen the red lipstick cute T-shirts?! From an early age (She was an 8-year-old DIVA) to the present day, she worked toward her dreams. Natasha doesn't allow anything to hold her back. You can read all about her journey to becoming That Girl here and if you want to ask her any questions drop into The Community