Estrella is a singer-songwriter. Writing and co-writing everything she does, she has a unique voice and sound unlike anyone else. She plays the guitar and is a storyteller and lyricist writing music that is the perfect balance of alternative-pop-rock. She did not have your typical upbringing. She was born of Latin and Caribbean parents (both university professors) here in the US and not only lived overseas for a period of time but traveled a lot during her youth. She is the third of six children.
Q) What does your name mean and how did you get it?
A) It’s Spanish for star. Well, my mom is Panamanian, hence the Spanish name, and as I was the first girl my dad wanted to call me star. I guess my parents were giving me a bit of a head start!
Q) How did you get started?
A) Well ever since I can remember I was always writing and listening to music. It’s always just been a part of me silently accompanying me along on my adventures. My first musical instrument was the violin, which I started playing at the age of 6 and continued for about 5 years. Later on down the line I began vocal training, training operatically for a few years and auditioning for theatre and musicals. I moved to LA after graduating from university and auditioned for an all girl R&B/Pop group, which at that time was being considered by J Records. I made the cut and was chosen as the final member. That ultimately didn’t work out and I decided to go out on my own and pursue a solo career in a more pop/rock direction and picked up the guitar. I haven’t looked back since.
Q) What are your biggest influences?
A) Well my parents and siblings. And then of course there are other musicians. I’m a fan of so many types of music. I love Nick Drake, Rachael Yamagata, Amel Larrieux, Sarah McLachlan, Billie Holiday. They are all such great storytellers who emit so much emotion through their music. They really just connect with the listener. Also I like Alanis Morissette, No Doubt, Sixpence None the Richer, Coldplay, Butterfly Boucher, Nikka Costa, Michele Branch, Vanessa Carlton, Seal, I could go on and on and on. I’m addicted to classical music as well. I think because of my having played the violin and done opera, I feel such a love and connection to classical. It’s the epitome of expression; it’s moving without the need for words. Now, that to me is magic.
Q) So what have you been up to?
A) Well writing and writing and writing as much music as possible. I just finished working with an awesome producer, Jeffery David (MTV credited), on a boatload of new material. I am getting ready to release some new music, lining up shows and ready to take the music world by storm!
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