Today we’d like to introduce you to Akori Quinones.
Hi Akori, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Music has always been at the center of who I am. My mom says I didn’t have “first words” but a first song. I would sing the same song over and over with her before I could fully speak. From there, music naturally became my way of communicating and expressing myself in ways I’m usually too shy to convey to others.
Today, as an independent recording artist, I create music that blends pop, R&B, and neo-soul with playful, nostalgic, and introspective storytelling. I’m passionate about building a complete world around my music through songwriting, vocal performance, visual storytelling, and creative direction. My goal has always been to create intentional, emotionally resonant work that allows listeners to feel seen, connected, and understood.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
One of my biggest obstacles has always been self-doubt and overthinking. I honestly can’t think of a time when I haven’t had to fight the urge to hold onto unreleased music because I was questioning whether it was good enough or whether I was ready to share it.
Of course, there are also the financial challenges that come with being an independent artist, but in many ways, I’ve realized that I can be my own biggest obstacle. Sometimes I hold myself back from fully stepping into the artist I’ve always imagined myself becoming.
Over the last few years, I’ve spent a lot of time reflecting, growing, and working through those things. The self-doubt still comes up from time to time, but I’ve gotten much better at recognizing it and not allowing it to keep me from moving forward.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As an independent recording artist, I specialize in creating music that blends pop, R&B, and neo-soul with playful, nostalgic, and introspective storytelling. I’m very involved in the entire creative process from songwriting and vocal production to recording, creative direction, and building the visual world around each project.
I’m probably most known for maxing out on harmony stacks. I love layering vocals and creating intricate harmonies that add texture and air to a song. It’s one of the parts of the recording process I enjoy the most, and it has become a recognizable part of my sound.
I’m most proud of how much I’ve grown into trusting my own creative voice. As an independent artist, I’ve had to learn how to wear a lot of hats and continue creating even when I’m questioning myself. I’m proud of the fact that I continue to push through those moments and bring my ideas to life when I can.
What sets me apart is probably the contrast between my personality online and the artist you experience through my music and music videos. I have a pretty quirky and playful personality online, but when it comes to my music, I’m very intentional about creating something emotionally honest, visually cohesive, and sometimes more introspective than people might expect. I like that contrast because it gives people different sides of who I am while still feeling authentic to me.
What matters most to you?
What matters most to me is finding a community that is inspiring and welcoming. As an autistic woman, I’ve always felt that it’s been hard to connect with others, especially when I’m feeling a little antisocial. I think it’s so important to have people around you who understand you and won’t judge you for it, but will love you and show up for you as you do for them. Feeling inspired by those around you helps make life feel worth living because you feel a sense of growth and movement that can feel impossible when you don’t see others thriving in the direction you’d like to move toward.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uhhhkori/
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@uhhhkori?si=DsslbD8FXgP60zCN
- Other: https://linktr.ee/uhhhkori
