Name: Stefanie Michaela 

Birthplace: Los Angeles, CA

Current Residence: Los Angeles, CA

Music Style: Pop, R&B

Website/Social Media Links: Website, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok. 

How did you get started?
I didn’t find music; music found me. I realized how much singing brought me joy and took me to a place of peace and comfort, even as a young child. I knew this was what I was meant to do, and I decided I would find a way to pursue it for the rest of my life—somehow, someway.

How would you describe your music?
I’d describe my music as a blend of pop with a soulful, emotional R&B sound. You can feel my love for music through my energy and the way I sing my lyrics. The intonation in my sound creates the vibe I intend to share.

Who are your biggest musical influences?
I grew up listening to artists like John B, Whitney Houston, Babyface, and Boyz II Men, to name a few. I was drawn to the emotion and feeling in their chords and love songs and wanted to recreate that same energy for listeners. I was especially drawn to love ballads as a child; they would put me in a calm headspace. I’d put my favorite songs on repeat until I memorized them, then sing along in the mirror with a hairbrush. I even remember going to a special store in the valley that sold karaoke cassettes with 20–30 songs and a little booklet of lyrics. Getting those tapes was such a thrill—it was everything to me.

What sets you apart from other artists in your genre?
My story sets me apart. I bring emotion and life experience into my music—not just singing lyrics that don’t mean anything to me. The songs I write are drawn from my experiences as a woman, a wife, and a mother. My journey as an artist now is richer and deeper because of everything I’ve been through. I want my music to inspire others. I want people to know that it’s never too late to follow their passions, no matter what stage of life they’re in. Don’t worry about judgment—do what fulfills you and makes you feel whole.

Tell us about your newest project, “Anything Is Possible.” What was the inspiration behind the single and music video?
“Anything Is Possible” is a magical song that takes you out of your day-to-day life and encourages you to dream about something you’ve always loved, even if it’s been put on the back burner. It’s about realizing that anything is possible if you put your mind to it and make intentional choices about your life. I thought music might be gone for me, and I’m sad about the years I missed, but I know now that it was meant to be—this is my time to feel whole again. At this stage of my life, I don’t know where it will take me, but I do know I am proud of the project and that it will be something I can turn to for years to come.

As an independent artist, what has been your biggest obstacle?
As an independent artist, it can be challenging to get your name out there and share your story. It takes time and patience, which has been difficult for me at times. But I take it one day at a time, trusting that my music and story will grow and inspire others. I have an amazing team behind me, and with their support, along with my family and friends, I believe the sky’s the limit.

What are you most proud of so far in your music journey?
I’m proud of my project and of incorporating my passion into my daily life. I’m proud to bring music back to the forefront of my life and to feel happiness and fulfillment from it. Combining my love for my family and my love for music has made this stage of my life exciting, hopeful, and meaningful.

What is on your bucket list as an artist?
I want to continue connecting with my audience and creating music. I never want to come to a standstill again because I know how important music is in my life. My biggest fear is losing it, because music has the power to evoke deep, unexplainable emotions the moment you hear a song.

If you could change anything about the music industry, what would it be?
I would remove the focus on numbers, likes, and views. Artists should be judged on their talent and the emotions they evoke, not metrics. If we could focus more on authentic storytelling, sound, and vibe, the industry would be far more rewarding for artists and listeners alike. Relying too heavily on numbers can lead to unnecessary stress and self-doubt for artists.

What’s next for you?
My EP will be completed in the spring. I intend to continue performing, songwriting, and connecting with others. I will never let music slip away again. It’s too important to me and brings so much meaning and passion to my life.