Masterpieces don’t come from strategy alone. They come from risk, courage, and deep self-knowledge.

What made the difference for Yify Zhang was her intention. She wasn’t just doing the exercise because it was part of a program—she genuinely wanted to see whatever was causing the discomfort. That intention gave her the courage to stay present with those feelings, and slowly, memories began to resurface.

You need to live life to have something to write about.
You need space. Joy. Heartbreak. Beauty. Curiosity. That’s where the inspiration comes from. Not the grind.

If you’re trying to mold yourself to what you think people want, you’re abandoning your natural blueprint. That means you’re shrinking instead of expanding.

You’re a human being. You’re supposed to grow.
You're allowed to explore new stories, new sounds, new layers of your artistry.

 The number one thing I teach and believe as a songwriter is this: authenticity matters. Vulnerability matters. Truth matters.

Every decision you make shapes your creative future—so let those decisions be rooted in your truth.

Start with the spark. Honor it. Then—stay curious.
Stay present. And let the idea show you what it wants to become.

Technique is a tool, and when it serves you, you’ll discover the true power of your voice.

I’ve realized over the years that being present—really present—is the most powerful experience an artist can have. It’s WHY you sing - it’s why you experience freedom + joy making music.

The goal isn’t to mechanically map out every vocal choice—it’s to develop an instinct for what feels right.

The key is to embrace the challenge. Show up, put in the work, and let yourself grow in ways you never expected.

The goal isn’t to mechanically map out every vocal choice—it’s to develop an instinct for what feels right.

In the world of creativity, whether you're an artist, musician, or filmmaker, one of the most valuable lessons you'll learn is that success doesn’t happen alone. It's about collaboration—about building a community of like-minded, talented individuals who challenge, inspire, and support each other.

Music isn’t just about getting everything right—it’s about connecting with the emotions we’re trying to convey. And the best moments happen when we’re not trying to force things. Play around with new sounds, experiment with different structures, or try something that feels totally outside the box. When we allow space for play, we open the door to unexpected brilliance.

Creativity, for me, is deeply intertwined with community. The most impactful creations are those that spark emotional connection. Whether it's a song, a conversation, or a moment of shared inspiration, it's these emotional bonds that leave a lasting legacy. I truly believe that as creatives, we’re not just here to make art, but to make a difference—to leave something that resonates with others long after we’re gone.

Above all, creativity should be fun. It’s about play—exploring your ideas, singing for the joy of it, and embracing the process without stress. Success comes when you let go of perfection and allow yourself to truly express who you are.

The first step in curating a life you love is identifying your values. These are the principles that guide your decisions, actions, and relationships. They are your non-negotiables—the things you refuse to compromise on, even when it’s difficult. They form the foundation of the career you build and the legacy you leave behind.

Music is about telling stories and when those stories are authentic, they resonate on a much deeper level than surface-level lyrics. Whether you’re writing from pain, joy, love, or grief, the authenticity behind the music is what gives it its power.

I’ve always believed that being yourself is your superpower. When you embrace who you are—flaws, quirks, insecurities, and all—you’re giving the world something only you can offer. You don’t need to chase trends or fit into some pre-made mold. You need to embrace your truth and let it shine through your art.