Lisa Yaro’s musical journey began at a young age. From her early years, it was evident that she possessed an extraordinary talent and passion for music. With unwavering determination, she honed her skills, constantly pushing boundaries and exploring new horizons.
Lisa’s music defies categorization, blending elements from various genres to create a sound that is truly her own. Drawing inspiration from R&B, Afrobeat, and pop, she weaves together infectious melodies, powerful lyrics, and soulful vocals, captivating listeners with her distinctive style.
We met up with Lisa and she gave a glimpse into what makes her the person and artist she is today.
Can you describe your transition from working on a Grammy-nominated Album as a songwriter and singer to becoming an actress and film producer? Did you pursue both paths simultaneously, or did one influence and inspire the other?
Yes, they have always gone hand in hand. I’ve always had a love of entertainment in all forms. I grew up loving musical theater and would often put on plays and concerts for my family. Whether they wanted to participate or not. Luckily they always enjoyed the shows!
Once I realized that music and acting went hand in hand (soundtracks for films etc), it quickly gained my interest in seeing how I could branch into that space and bridge the two. I’ve always had a love of music stemming from my love of Theater Arts. I decided I wanted to pursue music and acting so I did my research on how to go about it. I spent some years paying my dues writing (for no payment), building my catalogue while shopping records for potential placements as well as going out for acting auditions. Eventually I was able to land roles in acting as well as work with various Artists and Producers in the industry that helped me evolve as a writer. Soon after, I decided to pursue my own artistry and share my music with the world as well as produce films and create my own lane within the industry.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
One of the best pieces of advice I’ve received was that success is a constant moving target. Always set your goals, reach them, and set new goals to achieve. You should be constantly learning and growing as an individual. Also, never take anything personal.
Among your numerous accomplishments, is there one in particular that you take the most pride in?
Wow, that’s a hard choice! Honestly I am humbled by all of my accomplishments because I remember what it took for me to accomplish each one and the obstacles I overcame. A lot of hard work went into every goal I’ve accomplished and they’re each special in their own unique way.
Black Women in the field of film and media are definitely in the minority but growing, do you have a mentor in this space to help navigate?
Yes! I am blessed to have an amazing mentor that I often seek advice from, Mrs. Pat Shields. She is a trailblazer as well as an amazing woman in the entertainment industry. She has truly been a blessing in my life because I am able to discuss my ideas with her as well as get feedback on the projects I’m working on. I truly value her opinion and know she wants the best for me.
What has been the most exciting part of working on your new music project? What can we expect?
The most exciting part for me is the whole process itself. From creating the songs, to filming the visuals. Each step is exciting to see my visions come to life in such a beautiful way. My EP “My Way” represents me believing in myself and making my mark in this industry on my terms. It’s a reflection of my journey as an Independent Artist. The records on my EP give you glimpses of different parts of who I am or what I’ve experienced. When creating these records, I wanted my supporters to connect with my journey through the different stages of my life. Each stage has helped me grow and evolve.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced in the past year?
Honestly speaking, there’s not “one big challenge” , it’s a constant uphill battle that I continue to overcome by pushing through and staying true to who I am. I’m blessed to have an amazing team of people on my team that all believe in me and the vision so any challenge I ever face, I am not fazed by it because at the end of the day I know I will come out stronger and wiser from it.
As an Independent Artist you’ll constantly be faced with big challenges but it’s all about how you choose to tackle the problem that will either help or hinder your growth. My advice to any Independent Artist out there is to keep pushing forward and never give up!
Do you have any non profits or charity organizations that you support in Kaduna? If so, how are you Involved?
There are a few organizations that I support and work with closely when I’m in Nigeria. I find various ways to get involved, by donating funds, buying supplies or books for the students who are furthering their education.
How do you ensure that you’ll keep evolving creatively?
My number one way is through prayer. Also, I love to find various ways to expand my knowledge, through conversations with friends or family, books, different old school music or just life experience; these things ultimately help me with inspiration when creating.
Since you’re constantly looking forward, what opportunities do you see?
I see God blessing me with amazing opportunities and new doors being opened for me that will help me be a blessing to others. I have various projects in the pipeline for 2023 and 2024 and I’m excited to share them with you all soon! My talents are God given and they are not something I take for granted. I feel truly blessed and grateful to God to be able to do what I love every single day.
And finally, where can our readers find you on social media
You can find me on all platforms:
Instagram: @Lisa Yaro – https://www.instagram.com/lisayaro/
Youtube: @LisaYaro – https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClZ0t0cnF_L_ObLmEjylfSA
Facebook: @OfficialLisaYaro – https://www.facebook.com/OfficialLisaYaro/
Tik Tok: @LisaYaro – https://www.tiktok.com/@lisayaro
Twitter: @MsLisaYaro – https://twitter.com/mslisayaro
