Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Selinay Mutluer. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Selinay, thanks for joining us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?
I’ve always felt that music was my calling, even from a very young age. Growing up in a home filled with music, I was always singing or
experimenting with instruments and my parents were my biggest supporters. They encouraged me every step of the way, and I’m so thankful for that. My music teachers at school played a big role too. They believed in me, always giving me opportunities to perform in talent shows and pushing me to refine my stage presence.
The defining moment came when I was 7, during my very first performance. I still remember stepping onto the stage feeling both nervous and excited. But once I started singing something clicked, and I knew in that moment that performing was where I felt most alive. I didn’t want to leave the stage, it was the beginning of my love affair with music and performing and I’ve been chasing that feeling ever since.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I’m a 22-year-old singer, songwriter, and dancer currently based in Los Angeles. I moved to the U.S. two years ago to pursue my music career. It wasn’t easy starting over in a new country without any friends or family, but it pushed me to grow in ways I hadn’t imagined. Every challenge taught me something new, and those experiences have deeply shaped who l am as both a person and an artist.
My passion for music and dance has been with me for as long as I can remember. Growing up in a music-loving household, I was exposed to a wide range of genres from Balkan, Middle East and Turkish music to English pop, R&B, and hip-hop. Being exposed to such a wide range of genres growing up has definitely shaped my artistry and influenced the music I create today.
My first performance was when I was just 7 years old, and I’ve been hooked on performing ever since. Around the age of 15, I started writing my own songs, which led to the release of my debut single “Sunshine” in 2020.
Since then, l’ve released two more singles called “All Night Long” and “Wish for more” and earlier this year I dropped my latest track ‘Burj Khalifa in May. I’m working on new music right now and I’m really excited for my listeners to hear what l’ve been creating.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
The most rewarding part of being an artist is connecting with others through my music. I also love the creative process, writing music is a way for me to express myself. And performing live is a thrill.
Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?
One thing non creatives might struggle to understand is the emotional and mental toll that comes with being a creative. While many people see the final product they might not realize the countless hours of hard work, self doubt, and vulnerability that go into the creative process.
There’s often a misconception that creativity is purely about talent, but it’s also about perseverance and resilience. Every artist faces rejection, criticism, and moments of insecurity. For me, the journey has been about learning to embrace these challenges and using them as fuel for growth.
I think the key insight for anyone looking to understand a creative’s journey is to realize that the process is as important as the product. It’s a continual cycle of growth, failure, learning and success. The art we create is an expression of our lives and that journey with all its ups and downs is what makes it so meaningful.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/selinay.cha?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Thisisselinay?mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Twitter: https://Www.twitter.com/thisisselinay
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@se1nay?si=f4DtzE5meJ2uulBP
Image Credits
Brad Stalcup