We had the good fortune of connecting with Amy Colleen and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Amy, why did you pursue a creative career?
I have been singing since before I could talk. Dancing since I was three. Writing music since I was seven. I grew up spending all my time creating and performing and taking ALL the classes that involved music, art, and creativity. Art was in my blood, and I never had the option to do anything else, nor did I want to. Sometimes you realize you were created to do something, and you can’t escape it. No matter what I did, it always came back to music. Life is too short to not do what makes you happy. I had tried other careers while I went to school and played music at night. Unfortunately, a few years in, I was diagnosed with a condition called POTS, and had to leave my job as a teacher. It felt like the end of the world until I realized I had a golden opportunity to focus on what I love to do and be my own boss at the same time. I could create hours around my health needs, and feel fulfilled by something I had spent my whole life working on. I ended up where I needed to be, and where I wanted to be.
It doesnt mean it was easy. Actually, most of the time it was the complete opposite of easy. However, it was always (and always is) worth it.
Now I write, record, and perform my own originals, as well as work with and own companies that help raise up and book other artists and musicians.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
It hasn’t been an easy road for me with my disability, but the passion pushes me forward. I have always been the kind of person that strives to be honest in my struggles, successes, and anything in between. I like to share as we try things and learn. I like to share the ups and downs. The last single I released with my band (Siren Valley) was written during the pandemic and recorded in our houses. We brought everyone into our journey. We had very little knowledge about what we were doing, but loved letting people see us jump in and try something new, and be unafraid of imperfections. You can listen to “Wanderlust” now on Spotify and see our video we created and edited on our own on youtube.
If we can make one person feel capable of just trying to express themselves and create something, we’ve done our job. If I can make one person feel empowered and like they can do what they love despite their obstacles, I’ve succeeded.
Currently I am excited to be working on my first solo album titled “Pas De Deux”. I’m getting to collaborate with so many talented musicians, and make it a big group project with some of my favorite people.
I am also part founder of a group called One More Round, which puts together songwriter rounds and shows for original artists to perform and share their music. Currently our shows are monthly at Bravery Brewing.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
There’s so many amazing places to check out here. Little “hidden” spots that people don’t know about. Our “little” city is overflowing with talented artists, and local business owners. A lot can be found on the BlVD. You could spend a whole day there shopping, trying different foods, and enjoying live entertainment.
There’s also many spots, like the Desert Preserve or the Aquaduct, where you can have a picnic, take a hike, and take in the beautiful desert sunsets.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to dedicate this and recognize my Papa. He was the first person I ever sang on stage with, and is one of my biggest inspirations.
I’d also like to thank my parents for always supporting my creativity and giving a space to be creative. They’ve always been my number one fans.
Thank you to the teachers that taught me, shaped me, and molded me into the musician I am today.
Thank you to my band, Siren Valley, for being my friends, trusting me, and being amazing writing partners.
Also, I can’t let this go without shouting out my girls (Janell, Katelyn, Tina, Kasey, Kristin, and Mandy). I am so fortunate to have such an amazing group of female powerhouses around me that encourage, inspire, and love.
Last but not least, my love, Leo, for being by my side and supporting me to use my voice, pursue what I love, and know what I’m worth. Thank you for loving me and giving me a reason to write mushy gushy love songs.
Website: amycolleenmusic.com
Instagram: @amycolleenmusic
Twitter: @amycolleenmusic
Facebook: facebook.com/amycolleenmusic