Meet Indian-American artist and songwriter, Raja Kumari.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

My name is Raja Kumari, I’m an Indian-American songwriter and artist and my EP BLOODLINE was just released last month.

Describe the city you’re living in and what it’s like to live there.

I am currently in Los Angeles, CA. It’s one of the craziest cities in the world because you can go out to the glamorous red carpets and premieres, and twenty minutes away lay out at the beach under the palm trees and feel complete isolation.

I am currently in Los Angeles, CA. It’s one of the craziest cities in the world

What is the best and worst thing about living in your city?

The best thing is the people and the tacos, the worst is the traffic.

Give us 3 words that describe what it’s like to be a creative in your city.

Ambition, determination, and luck.

How did you start your career in music?

I really wanted to work in the non-profit sector and make a true difference for the world. I went to an NSYNC Concert where they were raising money for charity and realized the only way I could make a difference at that level was to become a pop star.

I went to an NSYNC Concert where they were raising money for charity and realized the only way I could make a difference at that level was to become a pop star.

Were the people around you supportive of your decision on working as a creative?

I think everyone was skeptical at first, but once I was able to prove to my parents I could do this for a living, they were much more supportive.

What are some goals and ambitions you have for your future work?

I would love to be honored by my peers with a Grammy and continue to travel the world playing my music.

I would love to be honored by my peers with a Grammy and continue to travel the world playing my music.

If you could collaborate with any person in the world who would it be?

Missy Elliot, Lauryn Hill, Beyonce

How would you describe the women around you?

Strong, creative, and unapologetic.

Were there any local female creatives that you looked up to when you were growing up?

I really looked up to my mom. She was always able to retain her culture but thrives in a new country with different practices. I knew I could always be myself because of her.

Are there any challenging aspects of being a female in your industry?

I think there isn’t enough representation of women within the music industry and songwriting community. Without representation, we are not empowering the youth and other females around us to be successful.

I think there isn’t enough representation of women within the music industry and songwriting community. Without representation, we are not empowering the youth and other females around us to be successful.

Do you have any advice to young women who are aspiring to work in your field?

Don’t give up – create your own lane. Just because there hasn’t been someone before you in your field doesn’t mean you can’t be the first.

Photos courtesy of Raja Kumari and Sasha Samsonova.