Today we’d like to introduce you to Brina Palencia.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I’ve done music all my life. My parents and my brother are all musicians. I even majored in music at UNT. But my profession for 16 years has been acting. I got my start in voice acting and eventually signed with the Mary Collins Agency in Dallas 10 years ago. Through them, I’ve done a lot of TV and film and still continue to do voice acting in video games, anime, and commercials. Because of my career, I’ve gotten to travel all over the US and the world for work, conventions, and comic cons. I am one of the lucky few that can say I’ve worked full time in the entertainment industry for almost all of my adult life.
Please tell us about your art.
Back in 2015, I had to have surgery on my right ear. I didn’t know how it would affect me as a musician. I suddenly felt compelled to do as much music as I could. I taught myself how to play ukulele. I started playing shows at anime conventions and comic cons and doing random variety shows in the Dallas area. Now I do songs on Instagram based on one-word suggestions from my fans. I try to do one per week. It forces me to work on my songwriting, and I use those songs to learn how to mix. I also love the effect it has on my fanbase. I try to be open and vulnerable with my music. As a result, I’ve had so many people write me or come up to me after shows to tell me that my music makes them feel less alone. I still act full time, and I absolutely love it, but nothing compares to creating a song from scratch and knowing it means something so profound to a complete stranger.
What do you think about conditions for artists today? Has life become easier or harder for artists in recent years? What can cities like ours do to encourage and help art and artists thrive?
I think it’s a lot easier to be heard nowadays. There are so many platforms, and technology has made it to where people can easily self produce. At the same time, the market is really saturated. It’s hard to stand out when everyone is shouting into the void.
To be honest, I’m still learning about the Dallas scene. I mostly perform at conventions I’m attending as an acting guest, since it’s a built-in audience, or do stuff for my Instagram and Patreon. I’ve also lived half the year in Los Angeles for the last four years for my acting career. I am having a baby in a matter of days, though, so I’m cutting back on travel and will be a full-time Dallasite. I’m excited to see what the city has to offer!
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
The best way to keep up with my music is on Instagram: @brinakins. You can follow my acting stuff on Twitter: @brinapalencia. I also have a Patreon for my Instagram songs. If you subscribe you get MP3s of my music every month.
Contact Info:
- Email: brinamichelle@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brinakins/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/BrinaPalencia
- Other: https://www.patreon.com/brinakins
Image Credit:
Paul Wingo
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