Meet Violet Grae

We were lucky to catch up with Violet Grae recently and have shared our conversation below.

Violet, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
I walk into a room, with short colorful hair, violets tattooed everywhere, maybe a new piercing, and mostly likely have an even louder outfit on to match. I truly feel oblivious now to most stares, until I have someone next to me, family or partner, saying how do you deal with this everyday? I have always found that it is harder to try to unauthentically blend in, rather than stand out of the pack being yourself. I believe when recognized that I have a unique background with over a decade of music industry experience, I am able to bring a valuable perspective to any room I may walk into. My outlook and advice is to celebrate and embrace your uniqueness. It is a beautiful asset. Celebrate what makes you different. Your lens and perspective can be a strength that brings new and innovative ideas to the table.

I find that also find that knowledge is a super power and if I compliment it with preparation, I will have all of the confidence in the world. I try to always stay informed about what is happening currently in today’s musical climate. Also working with a plethora of different people day to day, effective communication is everything when it comes to starting or running your own business. I always say to practice active listening, find your mentors, articulate your thoughts clearly, and be open to feedback. I work with musicians and artists that are all beautifully different. They all communicate their dreams and needs in a multitude of ways. What allows me to keep working with the same talent for many years, is getting to know each of them to the core. If you genuinely care, it does take more time and of course more heart breaks, but you will be able to deliver for each client you are working with.

What I found to be the most essential quality and habit I always try to live up to, is always keeping my word. I will always show up and if I say I am going to do it I will. I find that I have been on the other side of false promises and it is hard to navigate, especially in the entertainment business. I am able to keep my word, because I have confidence in my skill. I am always honest on what I can deliver, so I do not let an artist or business partner down.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
Violet Grae is a Los Angeles based, self-produced music artist, award winning songwriter, and the founder of Grae Agency LA. As a queer business owner, Violet Grae has made it her lifelong mission to highlight marginalized voices, including that of the LGBTQIA+ community, women, and BIPOC. After attending Berklee College of Music for Music Business Management and Vocal performance, she has been working diligently in the entertainment industry for the past fifteen years. Violet has had the honor of mentoring over 780 artists and creatives within that duration. She has written over forty songs for both label artists and rising talent. Violet has coached cast members from the motion picture Cruella, Saturday Night Live, Netflix’s Wednesday, and actors from TV networks TNT, Paramount, and NBC.

Violet’s most recent and exciting news to share is being notified that she’s been placed on this year’s Official Grammy Award Ballot by The Recording Academy for her songwriting and production work on “Unbelievable” by Jaimie Steck. Category being Best Pop Solo Performance.

As an artist and performer herself, Violet has shared the stage with musical icons such as Grace Potter, Yuna, Bettye Lavette, Daley, and more. Violet is the honorary winner of the 2020 International Songwriting Competition, featured performing artist in the Huffington post, KDKA, Weho Pride 2020, Celeb Mix, and McDonald’s very first Pride Campaign. Grae Agency LA has recently team up with Big Noise Media, previously representing idols such as Christina Aguilera and Viola Davis.

The latest announcement from Violet is her new album, Grae Matter. The artist has been dropping new singles like dominos each month. The overall theme of the album is to spark and inspire individuality, inclusion, and compassion. Violet’s intention is to dissolve the walls that heavily and obliquely divide us. To accept the beauty in difference and not erase the history that has made us who we are. Check out her latest single “Casper.”

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Resilience is my number one quality I am proud of and that has become even stronger throughout the years of facing multiple challenges and adversities. I have been told no probably twenty thousand times, put in danger because of who I am, and have also tried to protect the artists I represent from similar experiences or even worse brutalities. The easiest solution is quitting and yes all of the nay sayers would be so happy to hear they have finally put out my light. I always say the biggest fuel to my dreams would be to say that I say that I can’t. You will see the fire instantly run through my veins and nothing or no one can stand in my way. There may be times when you face adversity or encounter bias. In music you absolutely will! Develop resilience and find constructive ways to address and overcome these challenges. Find a support system, or call me, and say I need an ally. There is nothing wrong with needing a shoulder, just make sure it is the right person or team in your corner.

Leading by Example, truly means everything. I am an action person and respect that quality in people more than anything else. Demonstrate professionalism, competence, and empathy in your interactions with others, not only when it is transactional. Lead by example and inspire positive change. Advocate for Inclusion and diversity. Actually do something about it, not just for the look or glory. Use your voice to advocate for inclusivity and diversity in your workplace or community. Encourage open dialogue and support initiatives that promote equality. There are two way people can go after facing hardship. A. you can say “no one ever helped me or came to my aid when I needed it. So why Would I do anything to help them?” or B. “No one ever helped me or came to my aid when I needed it. So that is why I have to do something about it right now. Showing empathy or pure selflessness will inspire the next generation to do the same. I must break this cycle.”

Continuously Learn and Grow and knowing I am forever a student. Stay committed to learning and self-improvement. I know I will continuously grow throughout my life and have so much yet to learn. I want to experience everything and make sure I truly take in every moment and person. I ask a lot of questions, and it is because I want to know everything. This enhances and fulfills my soul. Your dedication to consistently learning and evolving will truly positively impact everything you do. The moment we became complacent, is when we stop growing .

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
I always am looking for new artists to work with and new members to join Grae Agency LA. If you have a voice that needs to be heard, advocacy in a session, help writing your next song, or need simple guidance, my door is always open. I also love teaming up with foundations, event organizers, brands, or industry professionals that I trying to also create a safe space for musicians and creatives.

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