Today we’d like to introduce you to Serena Sol Brown.
Hi Serena Sol, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started my music journey at the age of five receiving early piano instructions from a local piano teacher in Philadelphia, during and after school. I remember writing my first song for my paternal grandparents lol. It was so corny but catchy at the same time. I knew then I wanted to be a songwriter. I did not think about becoming a singer at all. During my college years at the Ohio State University, an Italian vocal instructor, Renee’ approached me and asked how long I had planned to wait for others to record my songs. She thought very highly of my vocal ability to record my own demos as well as improve my vocal range through her instruction. In fact, Renee’ proceeded with a challenge for me to sing at a jazz club with one of the greatest piano players Dave Powers, from Columbus, Ohio. I guess you can say the rest is history. I have been writing lyrics, composing music and singing live ever since 1999.
Moving forward I was able to establish myself as a professional writer and music publisher with ASCAP in 2003. I have been a member of the Philadelphia Chapter of NARAS (The National Academy of Recording Association); created/produced music platforms for independent artists on internet radio, and television (The Serena Sol Brown Show); community festivals (Battle of the Bands, Sol Unlimited Jazz and Arts, and Jazz in the Park). Joined forces with Corey Lee Barker/MC1 Publishing Nashville, and together we won the Best Jazz Christmas Song from the Holiday Music and Film Awards in 2023 for “Dancin in the
Snow.” Received Woman of the Year in 2024, from Janes Memorial United Methodist Church Women’s Day Celebration; and Community awards from Councilwoman Cindy Bass, for the 8th District of Philadelphia, in partnership with my company Sol Unlimited, for producing/hosting over 6 years of a summer series called “Jazz in the Park.”
I have recorded and released a variety of music which can be heard on all digital platforms. My latest release, “FIRE” is also available in two versions (the original version and an acoustic version). “Fire,” music videos can be found on The Serena Sol Brown YouTube Channel.
The summer season has always been my time to shine for live performances. A performance schedule will be available soon.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
As an indie artist the road has never been smooth however, I am so grateful for the opportunities to create a way out of no way. Sometimes having the freedom to create a lane or a platform can be more gratifying than being told where others want you at any given time. Initially, marketing was going to be key. Social media was not a “thing” when I first started …there was only “myspace” and word of mouth. To be honest that was a really cool period because we did not have the stressors like i.e. number of followers and how many likes before anyone would take you seriously to book you as an act. We also did not have to post to be popular. If someone liked your music and/or your personality …you just had to show up and give it all ya got.
Certainly, so much has changed since my earlier years in music. It feels like you constantly have to jump whatever hurdles are necessary and for the most part believe you deserve to be on the scene. Actually, that is the attitude I have. I feel spiritually I was given a natural born talent for what I do so I just like Curtis Mayfield says, ” keep on pushin!” If I cannot get a gig …I create one lol Oh and you don’t need a label anymore you can create your own! I did ..and I also don’t have to wait for a spin I can send links to my music to a collective/post on social media instead of beating down program directors at radio stations.
All in all, it is work! But it is worth the trials and tribs when you can feel the energy from the stage; and people show their appreciation for what you love to do.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am sincerely proud of the outreach I am able to do with my platforms. Being an independent artist can be freeing but it is not for the faint at heart. You will have to work all of the angles, so I take pride in continuing to create platforms that feature other artists. There is so much talent out here. I have produced jazz concerts (that were free for the community) healing concerts, Christmas shows, special events for churches, radio shows for over eight years and co-produced a television show. I have interviewed other artists from all over the world. This is where I obtained the title “Queen of Indie,” which I am super proud of ..
My future endeavors are to continue serving creative minds as much as others in need of a warm soul to help grow a colorful garden. I am, therefore, a life coach as well. I have served three years as a life coach for hospice and for families impacted by gun violence. This work continues to call me …my company Sol Unlimited has added this component as a way to bridge the gap for creative minds and beyond. I believe all of these things collectively set me apart from other artists who may just focus on recording and performing.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Mentors are so important to have in your life. It is imperative that you network with others. I advise people to keep their eyes as well as their hearts open. We can never know everything. A mentor can highlight some areas of your life you don’t think about and by networking with others can provide a wealth of information making your journey less challenging.
What has worked for me? Is not being afraid to speak to others that may not look like you nor share what you believe at first a commonality. You will be surprised! I once stopped into a guitar store it was my birthday, and my mother wanted to purchase a guitar as a gift for me. As I began to look around to see what appealed to me a petite woman turned to me and asked, “would you like me to play one for you?” After playing several guitars and helping me to select a one that was suitable for me — she then pulled out a business card and said I would love to work with you. Her name was Bonnie Warren. Long story short this woman was part of a large Nashville network, has been a mentor and a friend. We have been collaborating for over six years. “Rainbow” and “Hymn in Me” were the first two collabs from this songwriting partnership however, we have written so many more songs for other artists.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://solunlimited.my.canva.site/serenasolbrown
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/serenasolbrown and www.instagram.com/serenasolbrownmusic
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/serenasol | www.facebook.com/serenasolbrownmusic | www.facebook.com/solunlimitedAandR
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/serenasolbrown
