We recently connected with Katelin Barrera and have shared our conversation below.
Katelin, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you tell us about a time that your work has been misunderstood? Why do you think it happened and did any interesting insights emerge from the experience?
It’s a beautiful thing to be misunderstood because it means there’s depth to what I create.
I think the most common misunderstanding about my work is that it’s always about love or heartbreak. People sometimes box alternative R&B or neo-soul into that narrative, but my songs are often about freedom, self-reflection, or even frustration with societal norms
I’m an outgoing individual but I’m falling in love with being a loner. Especially due to the duality and many facets I have in my life. The more I elevate the more I find a need to shed.
I’m detaching from the need to have others need to understand / appreciate me. I love what I do how I do and the mistakes I make in the process.
What I’ve learned is that misunderstanding can be a bridge—it starts conversations, and it gives me a chance to clarify or just let the art speak for itself. The beauty of music is that it’s never static; it evolves in the mind of the listener. So, I embrace being misunderstood—it’s part of the journey.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I’m Rebelle Flor, an artist, songwriter, and producer from the heart of Texas. My music blends alternative R&B, neo-soul, and pop with trap influences, creating a sound that’s deeply personal and reflective. What makes my journey unique is the duality of my path—I’ve been a practicing registered nurse for four years, and in 2022, I began to transition casually into the music industry. Nursing taught me resilience, empathy, and the value of human connection, all of which I pour into my music.
I create songs that are more than just music—they’re therapy sessions, conversations, and moments of truth. Whether it’s a track like “Starlight” about owning your shine or “Why the Caged Bird Sings” inspired by Maya Angelou’s legacy, my work is meant to resonate with emotions we all feel but don’t always express. I also offer Creative direction and I’m a wedding singer, starting at $250, because I believe everyone deserves a chance to tell their story authentically.
Balancing the duality of being a nurse and an artist has taught me that healing comes in many forms—sometimes it’s through care, and sometimes it’s through creation. I care deeply about everything, and other days I don’t give a f***—that duality shows in my music. I’m proud of staying true to myself and creating work that’s both vulnerable and bold.
Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?
The public library system has been a cornerstone of my growth and success, providing access to resources that shaped my thinking. Books like All About Love by Bell Hooks, Financial Literacy for Young Adults Simplified by Raman Keane, and The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho have deeply influenced my perspective on relationships, financial independence, and purpose.
I also find inspiration in video essays on YouTube by creators like Olisunvia, Tee Noir, and Caleb Hammer (Financial Audit). These videos challenge my thinking and provide fresh insights into life, creativity, and financial discipline.
My philosophy is rooted in valuing a dollar, working smart, and staying committed to progress—even when life gets tough. Success isn’t just about talent; it’s about persistence, resourcefulness, and the drive to keep going no matter what.
Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?
A lesson I had to unlearn is that self-sacrifice doesn’t always serve the greater good. I’ve always wanted to boost others up, to encourage and pour into people, but I realized I was pouring from an empty cup. That led to burnout and a loss of focus on what I’m truly called to do.
The backstory is simple but profound: I observed how much energy I was giving away without reserving any for myself. It was a cycle I had to break. Now, I understand that choosing myself and standing alone sometimes isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. I deserve to focus on my path and fulfill my purpose.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/kateastherebel
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsrebelleflor?igsh=cnd3NGpyOTYwdGhh&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/14pjSDrCEb/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Twitter: https://www.threads.net/@itsrebelleflor?igshid=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rebelleflor?si=hLiqK7Lc9TlVoYQs
- Soundcloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/YkBRmvPSLsFjn5Nj7
Image Credits
Judith Williams
Mbazi
Mike Brooks