“This song is for anyone who’s ever felt judged for choosing family first.”
- Stefanie
- Jun 5
- 5 min read
Updated: Jun 14
— Stefanie Michaela’s "Stay In Your Lane"
Medium
Donna Block
12 May 2025
Born and raised in Los Angeles, California. “Music was always part of our lives — my dad could carry a tune, my mom harmonized with every song, and my sister was my backup dancer.” Can you share a favorite early family memory related to performing?
I remember we had family friends who had a deep love for music, and they had this amazing recording studio in their house. They invited me to come over, and I recorded “Annie” in their studio. I thought it was the absolute coolest experience — being able to put on those headphones and just sing my little heart out. Hearing myself back was incredible, and that’s when my love for studio work began. I was probably around seven or eight years old at the time.
“In school, I jumped at every opportunity to perform — whether it was a talent show or a musical. I became known as the littlest girl with the biggest voice and thrived on the energy of an audience.” You’ve shared that at times your confidence would take a hit with the competitive nature of grades at school, but that music was your refuge. You’d go on to attend prestigious arts schools like Idyllwild Arts Academy and the Boston Conservatory. How did that formal training shape you as an artist?
Attending Idyllwild and the Boston Conservatory truly laid the foundation for what life as an artist would look like in the future. These schools were filled with incredibly talented individuals, which pushed me to work even harder. Every single person had a gift that was so intensely beautiful, it inspired constant self-improvement — and that’s shaped who I am to this day. I’m always striving to grow, and I know there’s always something to work on. Never stop working on yourself and your craft — because that’s how you truly come into your own.
“At one point, I chose to put music on hold due to the uncertainties of the industry. … When I was 20 and eager to start my singing career, I answered an ad for performers, which led to a meeting with a music manager in L.A. … The people we met seemed disengaged and uninterested. Devastated, I called the manager to discuss my concerns — but he dodged my calls and never spoke to me again. I was left heartbroken and with a deep distrust of the music industry.” What advice would you give your younger self, just starting out in the industry?
Always be cautiously optimistic. Unfortunately, I’ve always struggled with trust, and this situation only deepened my doubts and made me question everything — even my passion. I started to wonder if I had anything meaningful to offer the world through music. Were people trying to take advantage of me because they thought I’d fall into the trap? Or did I actually have something of value to give? I was overwhelmed by questions, and it pushed me into a place of complete uncertainty, which wasn’t healthy.
If I could talk to my younger self, I’d say: Keep believing in yourself. Never give up on your passion. Do it for the love of what you love.
“Mommy, you’ve taken care of us; now it’s time to take care of you.” The song, “Found in You,” marked the start of the new chapter for you. Your children’s support led you back to the studio after years of being a stay-at-home mom. Can you share the story behind the song?
“Found in You” is the story of the love I share with my husband. I’ve always believed that you don’t always recognize the right path while you’re on it — but if you pause, listen to your gut, and trust your intuition, the path meant for you will begin to reveal itself. We often think we should be with someone just like us, but sometimes, it’s the complete opposite — the person who challenges and balances you — that’s exactly what you need. That’s the heart of this song.
This love built the foundation of our family, and in turn, that family led me back to music. It sparked a new story, a new chapter of my life — one I never imagined. We’re now turning the pages together, creating something beautiful that I’m endlessly grateful for.
That’s why I encourage others to reconnect with what they love, especially if it’s something that once got lost along the way. Bringing that passion back into your life not only transforms your own spirit, but adds a deeper, more meaningful dimension to your family and friendships.
‘Maybe if you’re happier in your own life, you could continue to stay in your lane.’ Your latest, “Stay in Your Lane,” was produced by Grammy Award winning Keith Thomas. “There comes a time when you realize you still have your own dreams to chase. This song is for anyone who’s ever felt judged for choosing family first. I see you.” You’ve mentioned the culture of comparison, and how it gets magnified on social media. How do you get past all the negativity that comes from those platforms?
It’s easy to get caught up in the noise — the constant chatter, photos, videos, and stories that surround us every day. But it’s so important to stay focused on what truly matters to you and what brings you the most happiness. When you start letting that outside noise influence your thoughts, it can quickly steer you off course.
Stay in your own lane. Who cares what anyone else thinks? Do you — and if the people around you genuinely love and support you, they’ll stay in that lane with you. But the moment someone veers off and negativity starts creeping in, that’s your cue to say: “Get out of my lane. You do you, and I’ll do me.” And that’s how it has to be.
Upcoming EP, Turning Pages, set for release later this year. What themes fans can look forward to hearing covered?
Keep an eye out for songs that dive into relationships, letting go of toxicity, following your passion, and boldly stepping into something new. This EP is rooted in inspiration — it marks the foundation of a new chapter, built on the courage to chase what you believe in.
At its core, everything begins with love and support. That’s what this project is based on: the unwavering love I’ve received from my family, which has empowered me to pursue my passion with true authenticity. This is Stefanie Michaela — soulful pop, deeply emotional, and unapologetically real. A singer-songwriter with a heart wide open, hoping to connect with others through honest lyrics and raw passion.
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