We were lucky to catch up with Julia Stromberg recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Julia, thanks for joining us today. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.
One of the first steps I took in my quest to become a singer was immersing myself in the music of my idols. I listened to their songs, dissected their melodies, and analyzed their vocal techniques. My first big idol was this Swedish artist called “Miss Li”, and later I found my love for rock music and the voices of Janis Joplin and Chris Cornell. This not only provided me with endless inspiration but also helped me understand the nuances and styles of different singers. By learning from the best, I was able to expand my vocal range, discover new tonalities, and develop my own unique voice.
To truly excel as a singer, I realized the importance of formal vocal training. At the age of 13, I started taking vocal lessons at my local music school, where my vocal coach taught me the fundamentals of proper breathing, posture, and vocal technique. Through regular lessons and vocal exercises, I honed my skills, strengthened my vocal cords, and learned how to project my voice with clarity and power. Along with that I made the decision to study it full time. I enrolled at Musicians Institute where I had the opportunity to learn from experienced musicians, collaborate with fellow artists, and gain a deeper understanding of music theory. Studying music full time allowed me to refine my skills, explore different genres, and deepen my knowledge of musical composition which has been very meaningful for my music career.
While practicing in the comfort of your own bedroom is crucial, nothing quite compares to the experience of performing live. I started by singing at the yearly recitals at my music school as well as performing in musicals every summer break. There I faced the challenges of performing in front of a live audience. These performances helped me develop confidence, stage presence, and the ability to connect with listeners on a deeper level. I felt very shy on stage at first and it’s something I still struggle with at times but the feedback and applauses we’d receive definitely fueled my determination to improve, pushing me to refine my craft and captivate audiences with my voice.
Learning your craft as a singer is not a destination but a continuous journey of growth and self-improvement. Even though I’m still young and lucky enough to already have decided my career path, I definitely wish I would have started the learning process earlier. Looking back, I realize that time can often be a barrier, especially when balancing multiple interests and responsibilities. Nonetheless, once I started my journey, I quickly realized that the learning process never truly ends. It is a constant evolution that requires dedication, hard work, and a genuine love for the craft. I’ve encountered numerous challenges that tested my commitment and determination. One of the biggest hurdles I faced was finding my own pace. It can be tempting to compare yourself to others, especially when starting out, but I soon faced the fact that everyone has their own unique journey. Embracing this has allowed me to focus on my personal growth without getting overwhelmed by the progress of others.
It’s not just about mastering the technical aspects, but also about infusing your own unique style and emotion into your performances. So, embrace the challenges, stay dedicated, and let your passion for singing guide you through your musical adventure.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I’m a Swedish singer and songwriter currently based in sunny Hollywood, California. Music has always been my passion, and I grew up in the vibrant small town of Simrishamn, located on the south side of Sweden. It was through the local musical theater community there, known as “Scen Österlen,” where I discovered my deep love for music. From 2013 to 2019, I had the wonderful experience of participating in various musical productions during my summer breaks. I had the pleasure of starring in everything from timeless classics like Jekyll and Hyde to the fun and fantastical Shrek The Musical.
In pursuit of my dreams, I moved to Los Angeles at the end of 2021 to fully immerse myself in the world of music. This decision allowed me to be surrounded by talented musicians and like-minded individuals who shared the same passion for music. I dedicated my time to studying music, and graduated with an Associates Degree in vocal performance earlier this year. It was a remarkable achievement that solidified my commitment to pursuing a career in music.
Currently, my days are filled with exciting projects and music-filled adventures. I’m fortunate enough to work as a session musician and vocal coach, allowing me to collaborate with a diverse range of artists and hone my skills in versatile styles. Alongside this, I have the pleasure of gigging live with my cover band, “Whole Lotta Hair.” As the name suggests, we take our audience on a nostalgic journey through the iconic soundtracks of the 70s, 80s, and 90s. From ABBA to Zeppelin, our performances guarantee a rocking good time for music enthusiasts of all ages. If you’re in the area, you can catch us live every month at our residency at Oceanview Bar and Grill in Montrose.
In addition to my cover band, I’m also pouring my heart and soul into my original band called “Bluenvy.” Formed in late 2022, we are currently in the exciting process of writing and recording our first EP. “Bluenvy” is an experimental project that merges elements from a variety of genres. Our sound mainly consists of sub-genres such as Alternative Rock, Post-Rock, and Indie Rock. We strive to create music that is unique, captivating, and pushes the boundaries of traditional genres. It’s an exhilarating journey, and I can’t wait to share our music with the world once our EP is complete.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
As a musician, my ultimate aspiration is to become a professional vocalist. The allure of standing on grand stages, captivating audiences with my voice, and sharing my passion for music drives me forward. However, my goal extends beyond mere fame and recognition. I yearn to express my voice through music in a way that resonates with others, touching their hearts and souls. While my primary aspiration is to shine as a performer, I’ve come to realize that there are numerous ways to work with music. Teaching others and supporting fellow creatives on their musical projects are equally fulfilling endeavors that I want to be a part of. Nurturing and guiding aspiring artists not only allows me to share my knowledge and expertise but also contributes to the growth and development of the artistic community.
Music has an unparalleled ability to inspire, heal, and bring people together. With this in mind, giving back to my community holds great importance in my creative journey. I strive to inspire others through my music, create a positive impact within my community, and embrace the various facets of the music industry. By combining my passion, experience, and dedication, I am determined to make my mark as a professional vocalist.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
One of the most rewarding experiences for me is the feeling of being truly seen by your audience. Whether it’s through a captivating performance or a thought-provoking piece of artwork, having someone connect with your work on a deep level is an incredibly validating experience. It’s as if your creativity has the power to touch the lives of others, creating a meaningful connection.
Imagine hearing someone say they got goosebumps from your performance. Goosebumps are an involuntary physical response to strong emotions, and when someone experiences them while witnessing your artistic expression, it’s a true testament to the impact your work has on others. It’s proof that your creativity has the ability to evoke profound emotions and leave a lasting impression on those who experience it.
As an artist or creative, you have the power to inspire the next generation. Through your work and the unique perspective you bring to the table, you can ignite a spark of creativity in others. By sharing your journey, struggles, and successes, you become a source of inspiration, encouraging others to pursue their own artistic passions. The ability to leave a lasting impact on future generations is an incredibly rewarding aspect of being a creative to me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://juliastromberg10.wixsite.com/jlms/s-projects-side-by-side
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julia_stromberg01/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091263437470
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/Julia80725008
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCL39H9SK0dMeNF8IGRLHZiw
Image Credits
Kirk Jackson, Jessica grief