We had the good fortune of connecting with Michaela Paladio and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Michaela, is there something you can share with us that those outside of the industry might not be aware of?
The music industry has a romanticized, glamorous appeal- however, it is quite the contrary. This business is cutthroat. Artists are branded to sell a dream (to put it simply). Using social media platforms makes it all the more easier to appeal to the masses. Many of us work day jobs, night jobs, while simultaneously working in recording/production sessions, photo & video shoots, meetings, travel, itinerary development, brand building, networking, and much more. Becoming a music artist is a LIFESTYLE, it has no bounds. But if it means doing what you love, it’s worth more than anything.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I began singing as a toddler, and officially began songwriting, composing, & producing at 9 years old. I also learned how to accompany myself on piano by ear. I have been surrounded by musical culture my entire life, largely due to my Filipino upbringing. When I was around 7 years of age, it naturally hit me that music was going to encompass my entire life. I had no idea then what that REALLY meant. Today, at 22 years old, I have released two albums, two E.P’s, and ten singles. I perform all over my city (Tampa), I am extremely interactive on social media, and I’ve recently been invited to perform at a HUGE underground music festival called ‘Loud on Seventh.’

Learning how to develop into a full-time music artist was not easy, and I have many more obstacles to overcome, however the result of doing so time & time again has been nothing short of euphoric. I was a victim of bullying as a child, specifically for my art, and I allowed it to push me through the gates of success rather than drag me down.

A few important things I’ve carried with me along the way are one, the company you keep is ESSENTIAL to your health and successes. Two, you MUST be your BIGGEST and most consistent supporter. Without the roots, there is no fruit to bear.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was visiting the area, I would take them to Downtown Tampa to visit the Tampa Museum of Art, (LIT Cigar & Martini Lounge, Haiku), KELP Sushi, SOHO, Ybor (The Ritz, pizza shops, Asiatic Street Food & Noodle Bar). If you’re looking for a good time with great people, I would go to any of ‘The Affiliates’ events. In regards to our art culture, we have events on a weekly basis (mostly in Ybor City). My city is FILLED with things to do, you just have to be willing to explore with an open palate.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to dedicate my shoutout to my beloved creative team(s), fans, friends, and family.

Website: https://www.whoismichaela.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whoismichaela

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/whoismichaela

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michaela-paladio

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHtG1-ac5wqm9-D3icYEHgg

Image Credits
Katia Luu Raggy47 FM Photos JMC Innovations Andrew Admire Amber Suttisarn Eswin C

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.