Interview: Karina Pasian - Singer and Pianist - Page 3

Yes, actually the song that I play on the piano – "Slow Motion." That is the song that I feel like I got the most feedback on. Of course I got feedback on "16 @ War" – that was the song that was widely known. But with "Slow Motion" I feel like I made an impact.

What kind of joy did you get on the road that you couldn’t get in the studio?

I guess just being out and seeing everything. When I go to different places to record – like Atlanta – I don’t see much at all, because all of my time is spent inside of the studio. When I’m on the road, however, I get to explore the city and meet a lot of new people, in-between my performances.

Living in the spotlight can be difficult especially at a young age. Do you find if challenging to let loose and enjoy your childhood?

I wouldn’t say it’s challenging. I love being a teenager. I don’t want to grow up. I don’t see why everybody’s in such a fuss to grow up. I’m really enjoying it. When I’m home, I get to hang out with my family and friends and we go out to the mall and stuff. I just go out and enjoy my youth. 

So, you don’t really feel any burden of being labeled as a role model?

I do feel that. I know that a lot of people are looking up to me, but I knew what I was getting into. It’s all a part of the process. People that are older are looking up to me, and I’m just like, "Wow!" I don’t know how to describe it.

Your musical godfather is Quincy Jones. What’s the best professional advice that he’s ever given you?

He’s always told me to stay humble and to always keep developing my craft. There’s nothing that I can’t learn if I remember to be open to anything, any suggestions, and always keep working.

Keeping that advice in mind, who do you look up to in the music business?

Beyonce. She’s been so successful. To see all of her hard work, she definitely fights for everything. I see that she’s so strong and dedicated to everything that she does. I really look up to her for that, for being so talented and so focused in everything that she does. She really inspires me a lot.

Article Author: Clayton Perry

Clayton Perry's mission parallels that of John Hope Franklin, Marcus Garvey and Carter G. Woodson. As the founder of the NUBIANO Project, Perry facilitates the design of projects that give voice to the Black diaspora, empower the Black community, …

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