stayc main image

Miley Cyrus Sued Over ‘Flowers’: The Fine Line Between Inspiration and Infringement

September 18, 2024

Music creators often walk a delicate line between drawing inspiration from their favorite songs and unintentionally infringing on the work of others. The recent lawsuit filed against Miley Cyrus...

Read more
stayc main image

Breaking the "Second Verse Curse": Tips to Keep Your Songwriting Flowing

September 16, 2024

This is a predicament that many songwriters encounter: You're thrilled with the direction your song is headed, the melody feels great, and you've nailed the first verse and chorus. But then you...

Read more
stayc main image

Improving Vocal Samples After Pitch or Tempo Changes: Tips and Tricks from Music Producers

September 16, 2024

Vocal manipulation, such as pitching up/down or changing tempo, is a common practice in music production, especially in remixes. However, these changes can often lead to unwanted artifacts...

Read more
stayc main image

Overcoming Perfectionism in Songwriting

September 16, 2024

“How can I write songs with perfectionism?”If this sounds like you, you're not alone. Many songwriters, even those who are otherwise confident in their creative abilities, face a similar battle...

Read more
stayc main image

How to Find Your Genre: Narrowing Down Your Sound and Streamlining Your Music Creation Process

September 16, 2024

When you're creating music on your own, it can be tough to define your style, especially with so many genres and influences out there. You might feel like you’re trying to piece together a puzzle...

Read more
stayc main image

Unlocking the Art of Cryptic Lyricism: Strategies to Transform Your Writing

September 16, 2024

Writing lyrics that are metaphorical and cryptic can feel like a daunting task, especially when you hear others do it effortlessly. It’s easy to feel that your lyrics come across as literal or...

Read more
stayc main image

Efficiently Providing Music Lessons for Younger Children: Tips for Teaching Piano, Drums, and Guitar

September 9, 2024

Teaching music to young children is a rewarding but challenging experience, especially if you're used to playing instruments yourself rather than instructing others. Whether it’s drums, piano...

Read more
stayc main image

Finding Your Unique Voice in Music: Lessons from the Greats

September 9, 2024

Every great musician has a distinct voice that defines their sound. Think of Billie Joe Armstrong from Green Day, Axl Rose of Guns N' Roses, or Dave Mustaine from Megadeth. Imagine Green Day...

Read more
stayc main image

The Impact of Technology on Modern Music Creation: How to Maximize Tools like DAWs, Sampling, and AI

September 9, 2024

In today’s fast-paced, tech-driven music world, having musical talent is just the beginning. Technology has transformed the way music is produced, offering musicians unprecedented access to...

Read more
stayc main image

The Art of Creating a "Luxurious" Sound in Instrumental Music: Lessons from Legends

September 9, 2024

Many aspiring music creators are captivated by the lavish, grandiose quality of certain beats. Tracks like Kanye West's "Devil in a New Dress" or many of Westside Gunn's productions embody this...

Read more
stayc main image

Should You Start with an EP? A Guide for New Music Creators

September 9, 2024

When it comes to launching your music career, one common question arises: "Should I start with an EP or a single?" This is a crucial decision for any new artist, especially for those who are trying...

Read more
stayc main image

Why Connor Price and Forrest Frank’s ‘Up’ is the Ultimate Feel-Good Anthem

September 9, 2024

Connor Price and Forrest Frank’s track ‘Up’. This song has been everywhere, and for good reason—it’s got everything you need to vibe, feel inspired...

Read more

H.E.R: Staying True to Musical Roots

stayc main image

In a world of fast-paced trends and fleeting fame, H.E.R. stands as a powerful example of staying true to one’s musical roots while still capturing the hearts of modern audiences. Born Gabriella Sarmiento Wilson, H.E.R. (an acronym for "Having Everything Revealed") has become one of the most respected and versatile artists of her generation. Her soulful sound, rooted in R&B, jazz, and classic songwriting, bridges the gap between timeless artistry and contemporary appeal.

The Soulful Beginnings

H.E.R.’s love for music began at an early age, influenced by the sounds of icons like Prince, Lauryn Hill, and Alicia Keys. She first appeared in the spotlight as a child prodigy, performing on television and even releasing music under her real name. However, it wasn’t until she embraced her H.E.R. persona—mysterious and focused purely on her music—that she truly found her footing as an artist.

Her debut project, “H.E.R. Volume 1,” was a quiet yet impactful release. It reintroduced R&B in its purest form—lush instrumentation, emotional lyrics, and a focus on the artistry rather than the image. Tracks like “Focus” and “Best Part” reminded listeners of the genre's roots, offering an antidote to an industry often driven by instant gratification.

Staying True While Evolving

H.E.R. has always stayed grounded in her musical influences, but her ability to evolve within her sound is what sets her apart. Her music blends the soulful richness of R&B with modern production, creating a balance that appeals to both longtime fans of the genre and newer audiences. Songs like “Damage” and “Slide” showcase her knack for fusing classic and contemporary elements, proving that staying true to your roots doesn’t mean staying stagnant.

Her mastery as a multi-instrumentalist—often seen performing with her signature guitar—adds depth to her artistry, reinforcing her commitment to musicianship in an era dominated by digital production.

Music with Purpose

H.E.R.’s music is more than just entertainment; it’s a platform for connection and social change. Her lyrics often explore themes of love, self-discovery, and empowerment, but she also uses her voice to address societal issues. Tracks like “I Can’t Breathe,” written in response to racial injustice, and her contributions to film soundtracks like “Fight For You” from Judas and the Black Messiah reflect her dedication to creating music that matters.

By staying authentic and addressing meaningful topics, H.E.R. has built a connection with her audience that goes beyond catchy melodies. Her music resonates because it’s rooted in truth and carries a message that transcends time.

Recognition and Legacy

H.E.R.’s commitment to her craft has earned her critical acclaim, including multiple Grammy Awards and an Academy Award. These accolades are a testament to her ability to honor her musical roots while innovating within the genre. In an industry where many chase trends, H.E.R.’s focus on timeless artistry sets her apart, ensuring her legacy as a true musician’s musician.

Her live performances further cement her reputation, as she captivates audiences not just with her voice but also with her skill on the guitar, piano, and drums. Every performance is a showcase of her versatility and dedication to the craft.

Inspiring a New Generation

For aspiring artists, H.E.R. is a beacon of inspiration. She shows that staying true to your roots and prioritizing artistry over image can lead to enduring success. In an industry that often prioritizes instant hits, H.E.R. proves that there is still room for substance and longevity.

Her journey is a reminder that authenticity, hard work, and respect for one’s musical influences can resonate deeply with audiences across generations.

Conclusion: Timeless and True

H.E.R.’s ability to honor the essence of R&B while evolving as an artist exemplifies the beauty of staying true to one’s roots. By blending classic influences with a modern edge, she has created a space where timeless artistry thrives. As she continues to grow, H.E.R. remains a shining example of how authenticity and a commitment to craft can make an artist not just relevant but iconic. Her music isn’t just heard—it’s felt, proving that staying true to your roots is the foundation of a lasting legacy