We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Yi Long. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Yi below.
Yi, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.
One of the most significant projects I’ve undertaken was organizing and hosting my first independent solo concert in Shenzhen, China, immediately after completing my bachelor’s degree in contemporary vocal performance. This project holds a special place in my heart because it marked a significant milestone in my career and allowed me to make a positive impact on both the artistic and philanthropic fronts.
What made this project particularly meaningful was the level of involvement and responsibility I assumed. While I was the lead singer, I also took on crucial tasks, including conceptualizing the creative direction, designing the visual elements, arranging the music, managing promotions, and crafting the stage design. This comprehensive approach allowed me to create an all-encompassing experience for the audience, where music seamlessly intertwined with visual aesthetics.
The fact that this concert attracted substantial media attention and received recognition from multiple industry professionals was immensely rewarding. It not only validated my musical endeavors but also opened doors for potential collaborations and growth within the industry. Knowing that my work was highly valued by experts in the field was a significant boost to my confidence and motivation.
Beyond the artistic achievements, what made this project truly special was my decision to donate all of the concert’s income to the “Shenzhen Project Care Foundation”. This act allowed me to contribute to a cause I deeply believed in and use my artistry to make a positive impact in the community. It emphasized the idea that art can be a catalyst for positive change and reinforced my commitment to merging my pursuit of music with a sense of social responsibility.
Looking back, my first solo concert in Shenzhen represented a pivotal moment in my career as a singer-songwriter. It showcased my ability to excel in various roles within the production, received recognition from the media and industry professionals, and most importantly, allowed me to give back to the community through a donation to a charitable foundation. This project embodies the fusion of artistic expression and social impact, making it the most meaningful endeavor I’ve undertaken to date.
Yi, 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?
My name is Yi Long, and I am a singer-songwriter focused on giving music life through cultural expression. Born and bred in China and embraced by the vibrant music scene in the United States, I’m proud of my intercultural identity. I recently graduated with a master’s from the Musicians Institute majoring in contemporary vocal performance. I’m currently working as a faculty member in the same school and performing in multiple venues.
My musical journey has been adorned with vibrant melodies and pulsating rhythms. Since my early years, I’ve displayed a profound interest in music and mastered several instruments, including the clarinet, piano, and guitar. However, the actual ascent of my musical journey occurred when, at the age of 15, I sang on the stage of the Vancouver Global Chinese Spring Festival Gala, enchanting the audience with a Chinese traditional folk song that I rearranged. This recognition not only marked the commencement of my musical journey but also laid a sturdy foundation upon which I would build my dreams.
Driven by an inquiring mind for musical exploration, I went to Los Angeles, USA, and pursued my graduate studies at the Musicians Institute. Here, I found myself in an environment that recognized and celebrated my talents. My academic journey was complemented by the guidance of distinguished music mentors, including luminaries such as vocal coach Debra Byrd and Gina Bagg, and remarkable musicians such as Dean Brown, and Francis Buckley. These mentors not only nurtured my abilities but also instilled in me fresh inspiration and limitless possibilities.
My voice is often described as infectious and dynamic. My primary musical styles encompass pop, jazz, and R&B. I’m also a singer-songwriter, and my singles have had over 5 million streams across various online platforms. I’m currently collaborating with the four-time Grammy-winning musician Dean Brown on a song called “Shadows,” which I am looking forward to sharing with all of you.
In addition to my solo endeavors, I have also had the privilege of performing as a backing vocalist for many famous artists from Hong Kong and Taiwan during their U.S. Tours. These renowned artists include Christopher Wong, Priscilla Chan, Adia Chan, Johnny Yip, Jinny Ng, Frances Yip, and many more. These experiences have not only enriched my musical journey but have also allowed me to contribute my vocal talents to the performances of these artists.
In the year 2023, I achieved a significant milestone in my music career with my new single “Friday Night is Dead,” a piece where I served as the singer, songwriter, and arranger. This creation earned me multiple prestigious awards in LIT international music awards, including Best Singer-Songwriter, Best Music Producer, Best Female Vocalist, and Best Funk Music, establishing me as a four-time gold award recipient. Additionally, “Friday Night is Dead” was named a finalist in the Best Asian R&B category at the InterContinental Music Awards.
I look forward to sharing my story and artistry with you, as I continue my ascent in the world of music, guided by the power of melodies and the warmth of musical expression.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
The driving force behind my creative journey is my unwavering love for music and singing, a passion that has been with me since childhood. My goal is to embrace the freedom of being myself and to express my innermost thoughts and emotions through music. It’s a mission to continually explore the limitless possibilities within the world of music, to connect with others on a profound level, and to share the beauty and power of music with the world. This deep-seated love for music fuels my creative endeavors and motivates me to push the boundaries of artistic expression in pursuit of my musical dreams.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the opportunity to bring positive value to others while pursuing what I am most passionate about. Music has an incredible power to touch people’s hearts, evoke emotions, and inspire change. When I create and perform music, and when I see the impact it has on my audience, it’s a deeply fulfilling experience. Whether it’s the joy someone finds in a song, the comfort it provides during difficult times, or the way it brings people together, knowing that my art can make a positive difference in someone’s life is the most gratifying part of my artistic journey. It’s a profound connection that transcends boundaries and cultures, and it motivates me to continue creating and sharing my music with the world.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.longyimusic.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yilongmusic/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@yilongmusic3106
- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2VqMNatpTORj4PDhcgiSal?si=tAfeyhpnSIOZ16Ji-sK0Pg
Image Credits
Sam Yang @sammydepthphoto