Story & Lesson Highlights with Kashi-Tara of Maryland

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Kashi-Tara. Check out our conversation below.

Kashi-Tara, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: Would YOU hire you? Why or why not?
Definitely. I’d hire me because I know how to make the audience feel something — my blend of neo-soul and go-go isn’t just music, it’s a vibe. I bring more than just vocals — I bring a whole experience. The kind of performance that gets people moving and keeps them engaged from start to finish. My energy, stage presence, and ability to connect with the crowd turn every show into something people remember.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
“Music and Movement are my way of spreading light”

I’m Kashi-Tara, a singer, songwriter, performer, and creative movement educator raised in the DMV, whose sound and spirit live at the intersection of neo-soul, jazz and go-go — soulful, rhythmic, and full of life. My artistry is rooted in connection. I believe music and movement have the power to heal, uplift, and bring people together. On stage, I bring energy, authenticity, and heart, creating an experience that invites the audience to feel seen and alive. Off stage, I’m honored to pour that same passion into my work as a K–6 creative movement and dance teacher, where I get to inspire young minds to express themselves freely and boldly. Right now, I’m currently working on new songs, reimagining old ones and creating works with my students that celebrate joy, resilience, and togetherness, everything that makes my story, and my sound, uniquely mine.

Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My mom- she’s always been my biggest believer. Long before I had the confidence to call myself an artist, she saw it in me. She noticed the spark, the rhythm, the way music moved me, and she never let me forget that it was part of who I am. She nurtured my voice, encouraged my creativity, and celebrated even the smallest wins like they were major milestones. When I doubted myself, she spoke life into me — reminding me that my gift had purpose. Her belief has never wavered, and that kind of unconditional love and support gave me the courage to truly see myself. She’s the foundation of everything I do as an artist.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self MANY kind things. I would tell my younger self to stop worrying so much about what others think and to live boldly in her authentic truth. I’d remind her to laugh deeply and more often, To be gentle with herself, To understand that life is a journey — full of change, growth, and grace. Don’t sweat the small stuff, everything has its season. Forgive yourself and others, and remember that everyone’s just trying to figure it out too. Most importantly, look for the positive, because that’s where your power lives. As a creative movement and dance teacher, I feel blessed to speak those same words into my students every day — it’s like I get to pour into my younger self through them.

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What truths are so foundational in your life that you rarely articulate them?
I’ve always believed that ALL people are born good. We come into this world with light, love, and pure intention — but somewhere along the way, life can dim that light. Disappointment, pain, fear, trauma and loss can cause us to lose sight of who we truly are. Those experiences can steal our joy, our innocence, and sometimes lead us down paths that change not only our own journey but the course of future generations. Still, I hold onto the truth that goodness never fully disappears — it just needs to be reminded of itself. That belief shapes how I move through the world, how I teach, and how I create. I want my art and my energy to help people reconnect with that original light inside them.

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people say I walked to the beat of my own drum — that I lived authentically and poured love into everything I did. I want to be remembered as someone who was dedicated to uplifting children and protecting their hearts, someone who used music, movement, and connection to make others feel seen and valued. I hope they say I was great at what I did, that I touched hearts and lives, and that my presence made a difference. More than anything, I hope people say, she was here, and she mattered.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Grady McCain
Morgan Smith

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