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

Hi Yazmin, thanks for joining us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

The process of learning my craft has been, and continues to be, a long, wonderful journey. I started performing on stage early on. My mom, a professional singer and songwriter, instilled in me a love for music and a keen ear for pitch. She continues to be my greatest teacher, but I’ve had the privilege of studying with different mentors, learning various instruments along the way. I’ve found that complementing my vocal work with instruments like piano or guitar helps me develop a more well-rounded sound as both a vocalist and songwriter.

My journey has not been without its challenges, ranging from a lack of time and resources to struggles with acceptance. It’s easy to become frustrated during the creative process when emotional hurdles often lie at every step, some more daunting than others. For me, these obstacles might look like a lack of self-belief when it comes to starting the song or difficulty with follow-through when it’s time to finish it. Dedication to my work, and a willingness to show up, even in small ways, has been critical in overcoming these challenges. Equally as important: accepting where I am in my journey. On my best days, the simple act of acceptance allows me to let go of guilt and frustration, freeing up mental space to become a better creator and a better human.

Yazmin, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am deeply passionate about music. My journey into this field began in childhood when I took to the stage at the tender age of 6, singing alongside my mother. Over the years, I’ve dedicated myself to refining my skills as both a vocalist and songwriter. My specialization spans across a range of genres, including RnB, neo soul, pop and jazz. Currently, I work as a vocalist with the exceptionally talented musicians of the Wash Park Band. In addition, I actively contribute to musical projects such as whatwedoin? at SoundBender Studio. We’ve recently released tracks like “The Right Time” and “Catch Me If You Can” now available on Spotify and Apple Music. I take immense pride in the work we’ve accomplished and we’re thrilled to be sharing some exciting new sounds in 2024.

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

My goal as a creative is to explore, connect, and share. Truthfully, I sing and create songs because I can’t help but do so; it’s part of who I am. I’m equally passionate about working with other artists and collaborating on musical projects. Doing so allows me to form meaningful connections through the medium of music. It can be a vulnerable undertaking, but it’s worth it. Bringing a song to life as a team is a uniquely gratifying experience.

In my creative pursuits, I hold a great reverence for the listener, with a deep desire to share something personal and intimate that transcends words, or even the music. Music holds so much magic, and I consider it a great privilege to make songs both for people, and with people. My unwavering respect for the listener, and the creative process, serve as the driving forces that fuel my passion and dedication to my craft.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

There are many teachings that unveil themselves throughout the creative journey. Some even cause a shift in perspective.

As an artist, I’ve had to unlearn the pursuit of perfection, and the desire to control how others perceive my work. Releasing a song can feel incredibly vulnerable, and akin to reading your diary aloud to a room of people. There is an inclination to try to perfect and curate the song for the listener to give them the “perfect” experience (whatever that means). This proved to be a fruitless exercise that only resulted in self-doubt for me. Perfection does not exist. I’ve found that creating art authentically, for myself, without judgement or expectations, is far more rewarding.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.yazminmercedes.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yazminhernandez/?hl=en
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pTXdYYsmnt8
• Other: Catch Me If You Can (https://unitedmasters.com/m/catchmeifyoucan) The Right Time (https://unitedmasters.com/m/therighttime) Photography by Erik Brannon (https://www.erikbranom.com)

Image Credits
Photography by Erik Brannon