FEATURE
Exclusive interview with singer, songwriter, violinist Kimia Penton
Kimia Penton is a singer, songwriter, violinist, and psychologist based in Dallas, Texas. Her music is a fusion of Americana, Pop, Jazz, and world music and her poignant lyrics and heartfelt vocals share the life experiences of this well-traveled, international artist. Her latest album “Where the Rain Falls” followed her successful release “Lessons from Life and Love”.
Founder of independent label and production company KimiaQProductions, Kimia writes and produces for artists she believes in, hosts events to facilitate community for creatives, and leads an annual benefit concert to drive awareness for local charities.
“The acoustic swoon on “Where The Rain Falls” is sublime as the restrained intensity of Kimia’s songwriting rushes in together with her violin, validating her lyrical wisdom and musical sensibilities.” – Jamsphere Magazine
“Her vocals are mystifying and only made more otherwordly by her talented strings.” – Nicole Ortiz, ORSVP magazine
“‘Lessons From Life and Love’ is a stripped-down, heartfelt record with an abundance of soul.” & “There’s really no other way to put it: ‘Lessons From Life and Love’ is a brilliant record, and it’s the rare sort that just might change your life.” – Evan Morgan Jodloman, The NewsHub
Kimia was born in the Middle East, raised in London, and now calls Dallas, Texas her home. Her classical training as a violinist started at age 7 and she enjoyed studying both Eastern and Western classics. Her influences include the Beatles, Joni Mitchell, Alison Krauss, Bonnie Raitt, Sade, and Norah Jones. Kimia’s songs express her love for different cultures and genres of music as well as her passion for observing and studying human behavior.
How did you come by your stage name?
Well, I spent some time looking at words that would be interesting and unique, and then realized that my name, being an old Persian word, means unique, hard to find, and alchemy! So, I just go by my own name “Kimia”.
When did you discover your love for your craft and what made you realize you wanted to pursue a career in it?
I grew up in a musical home in which we had music on all the time and everyone in the family would sing. I was a first-grade student when my music teacher first handed me a violin in music class. I was hooked instantly and have played ever since then.
I then started songwriting at age 13 have been writing and producing music most of my life. It’s part of who I am and how I communicate. I’m so grateful for caring teachers who make an impact on the lives of their students!
On your current project, how did you come up with the concept?
I was working on my project with Cari Cole and she encouraged me to dig deep and share a message I felt passionate about. I’m passionate about us being our authentic selves. We’ve got to give ourselves permission to be real, honest, and vulnerable and to take a stand for things that matter to us.
The idea of not being a chameleon came to mind and the song was birthed. It’s a song celebrating authenticity and I’m sharing it with an anti-bullying message. The song will be released on all platforms on 10/20/2020
What are your plans for the near future?
I’ll be recording a live album of my song catalog and releasing that. I’ll also continue to write music for other artists. Keep in touch with the latest information!
Is there anyone you’d like to thank, any shout outs?
Huge shout out to my dear friend Prynce P for the time and energy he put into the hip hop remix of this song! Special thanks to Cari Cole and Miranda Glory for being part of this writing journey. Shout out to Cloak Beats for beautiful production, Billy Syn for product enhancements, and Kent Stump of Crystal Clear studios, my favorite sound engineer. And special thanks to everyone who has inspired me throughout my journey.
How can fans find you?
You can find me on Instagram @kimiapmusic or my website www.kimiapmusic.com, Spotify Kimia Penton, and all digital outlets.
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