2025 ISSA Awards Finalist
I’m over the moon to announce that I’m officially a finalist for the 2025 ISSA Awards!
This is my third year in a row as a finalist. I have so many great memories from attending the awards in 2023 and 2024, like winning the bronze award for USA Female Album of the Year for It Is What It Is and performing at the after party. You can read about my trips to Atlanta in this blog post from 2023 and this one from 2024.
This year, I’m a finalist in six categories. I’m beyond stunned and grateful, especially since there were over 50,000 votes cast during April. My Butterflies truly showed up for me. To celebrate being a finalist, I’m going to share my categories and what each means to me.
My Six Categories for the 2025 ISSA Awards
First, I’m a finalist for Rising Star. Since releasing my debut single in 2019, I have come so far, both as a songwriter and artist. I never dreamed I would have my music played on radio stations around the world, perform my original music, do interviews, win music awards, and so much more. In this short time, I also released two albums, an EP, and tons of singles, and I finished recording a new EP. I’m so grateful for all the memories I’ve made and experiences I’ve had so far on this journey, and in many ways, I’m still just getting started. I have big dreams, and I’ll keep reaching for the stars.
Second, Hear Me Out is up for Album of the Year. I love this album with my entire heart because it reflects my growth as a songwriter, artist, and person. I’m finally at a place where I feel confident being completely honest, bold, and authentic in my music. Writing the songs on Hear Me Out was a turning point for me, and the eight tracks on this album capture my evolution. I couldn’t be happier that Hear Me Out is being considered for Album of the Year.
Third, “I’m Introverted, So What?” is a finalist for Single of the Year. As an introvert, I wanted to write a song that empowers others like me. This is one of my most honest songs, and it’s also one of the most fun. I had a blast writing the bold and sassy lyrics and recording this one in the studio. If “I’m Introverted, So What?” takes home an award, that wouldn’t only be a win for me, but for introverts all over the world.
Fourth, I’m a finalist for Emerging Artist. Now that I have found my voice as a songwriter, I’m creating my most genuine music yet. Being a finalist in this category reminds me how far I have come. From winning awards to hearing how my Butterflies resonate with my songs, I’ve finally found myself as an artist and will continue to do so as I keep chasing my dreams.
Fifth, I’m up for Musician of the Year. This is a very special one. Ever since I was ten years old, I’ve played piano, and this year, I’ve started playing classical music again after taking a break for a few years. Whether I’m performing in a recital or recording an accompaniment in the studio, piano is a huge part of my musical life. Winning this award would be a celebration of my growth and talent as a musician from over the past almost eighteen years.
And sixth, Write on Track is up for Radio Station/Podcast of the Year. I have hosted this show since 2021, and I have no plans to stop anytime soon. The show is approaching two hundred episodes, which blows my mind. I’ve enjoyed every moment of Write on Track, from chatting with guests to hearing from listeners. Choosing to start my own podcast four years ago was one of the best decisions I’ve made, and I’m honored that Write on Track is a finalist in this category.
So, those are my six categories for the 2025 ISSA Awards. Maybe I’ll win another award in August. Here is a photo of me with my crystal from 2023.
Thank you to everyone who has supported me on my songwriting journey. I’m so blessed to be able to write, record, and share my music with the world. Receiving award nominations is the cherry on top, but at the end of the day, I’m a songwriter, artist, and pianist because I love music with my whole heart.