We had the good fortune of connecting with Kat Kendria and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kat, looking back, what do you think was the most difficult decision you’ve had to make?
The most difficult decision I’ve ever had to make was quitting my 9 to 5 and focus my energy on my entertainment career. When I was working as a waitress, my artistic motivation was struggling. I found it difficult to even write one verse of a song, let alone put in all of the effort and organizational work that it takes to be in the entertainment industry. I knew the struggles and risks that would follow with making this decision, but I also knew that’s what it takes to fully commit to creating art.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Pursuing an artistic career is a long and winding path that can bring difficulties, but also the joy that comes from following my passion. It takes persistence to balance auditions, performances, creating content and establishing my personal brand. I’ve learned not to let the “no’s” get me down! They’re a natural part of any artist’s journey, and those who truly value your art make it all worth the effort. Ultimately I’ve learned to be consistent, plan and keep my goal in mind: to inspire and make life a little sweeter with my music.

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.
San Diego is full of places I love to explore. I’m a foodie, so I always love finding new places to eat. Encontro in North Park is my go-to for brunch, and the omakase menu at Moment Sushi has been a highlight. I’m a fan of Manna’s Korean barbecue. I’m always up for a nice cocktail, so I’d recommend Botanica in North Park. Of course the beaches are amazing, both at day and night. I love making beach bonfires and seeing the bioluminescence. Plus there are tons of trails like Annie’s Canyon!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would give a shoutout to my parents and my grandmother for boosting my artistic journey. Coming from an Asian household, you’re often expected to pursue a “realistic” career centered around academics rather than art. But instead of folding to this narrative, my family encouraged and nurtured my creative thinking! I will forever be grateful to have raised in an environment that encouraged me to be an artist.

I would also like to give shoutouts to the powerhouse female singers that I have always admired. Artists like Christian Aguilera, Jessie J, Tory Kelly, and Demi Lovato. I look up to their musicality, lyrical skills and stories. These elements of their music stir emotions that have always moved my heart.

For example, Demi Lovato’s live performance at the Billboard’s Women In Music 2015 brought me to tears. Her performance had left such an imprint on my mind, the melody and lyrics instantly transport me to past memories. It just shows how relatable and connected I felt to her song. I aspire to be as freeing in my performances as these female artists are. These singers are strong, kind-hearted, confident, and beautiful.

They were amazing role models for me while growing up to become my own kind of artist!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katkendria?igsh=YTQwZjQ0NmI0OA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/muse.kat.391

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZ6-5pTswtjs9x5Yv8p8SYg

Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3hLHZJbTowl1PIfKEaDs1i

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSocal is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.