We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Vicki Lovelee. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Vicki below.

Vicki, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Do you wish you had started sooner?

I definitely wished I started my career sooner. There was a moment back in high school, when I let someone’s opinion affect what I truly wanted. On the first day of school. I chose to take a vocal course and when I told my friend, they laughed in my face and said “YOU”RE taking a vocal class??” I was so self conscious and embarrassed at the time so immediately dropped the course. I don’t think that moment necessarily deterred me from my music path. But that moment delayed me from actively pursuing a music path because I was so shy to sing in front of my peers. I like to think back to that moment from time to time, as a reminder to never let anyone’s opinions sway me from what I truly want!

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Hey everyone! My name is Vicki Lovelee and I’m a Chinese-Canadian alt-pop artist and songwriter, based in Markham, Ontario. My music blends pop with dark drama and orchestral sounds. Some of my music influences are Lady Gaga, Halsey, Freddie Mercury and Phantom of the Opera. I love combining visuals with my music and I’m ultimately a storyteller — through music, art, fashion and movement. Some of my visual inspirations are Tim Burton and Alexander McQueen.

I’m inspired by life’s kaleidoscope and write about self-growth, acceptance, mental health, religion, and heartbreak. I’m a huge advocate for mental health awareness and believe in the acceptance of all cultures and identities. My goal is to make music that helps turn painful experiences into empowering anthems. I’m currently working on a new album for Fall 2024 and so excited to share it with you soon!

I wanted a deeper understanding of music and music business so I graduated from York University’s Music Program, with a Bachelor of Fine Arts. And also completed Canada’s Music Incubator’s Artist Entrepreneur Program in 2021. As an independent artist, I’ve garnered over 80K streams on music platforms and performed at events like Breaking Sound Canada, Taste of Asia, and Durham Pride. I’ve also been featured on media outlets like CBC Radio and Canadian Beats. And also received notable grants from FACTOR and Ontario Arts Council. I’m so grateful for my fans and the music community around me and am so excited to bring you along this journey with me!

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?

Something I’d love for everyone to understand is that working as a musician and in the creative industry is the same as starting your own business. We make a product, promote, and find ways to expand our brand. It takes a lot of time and commitment to be an artist, especially without a label or manager. I self manage all my projects and I wear many hats in order to promote my music. The goal isn’t necessarily to be “famous” but to make a living while working in the music industry which is 100% doable. But if my music blows up on Tiktok and I become famous I won’t mind haha :)

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

Creating music has helped me find myself. I always feel out of place sometimes and never feel like I truly belong anywhere. But making music and performing has helped me gain confidence and stand firmly on what I believe in. And I hope my music does the same for others. I advocate for the acceptance of all cultures and identities. If someone feels like they need a safe space and a reminder of their worth, I hope they find that in my music.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.vickilovelee.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vickilovelee/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vickilovelee
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/vickilovelee
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@VICKILOVELEE
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@vickilovelee

Image Credits
Photo 1+2 by: Ziyaad Haniff Photo 3 by: Aidan Tooth Photo 4: Isa Visuals