Abrina Opens Up About Her Creative Evolution and Upcoming Violet Reign EP

For Mexican-American singer-songwriter Abrina, music is more than a career—it’s a lifelong passion rooted in her cultural heritage and family traditions. Hailing from San Diego, CA, Abrina’s journey into music began early, shaped by her grandfather’s mariachi band and a childhood filled with family performances. Now, blending R&B and Latin influences, Abrina has established herself as a rising star in the music industry.

Early Beginnings

Abrina recalls her first taste of the spotlight at a Universal CityWalk contest in Los Angeles when she was just 16. “I put on a show with two dancers and sang my heart out,” she shares. Winning that competition became the catalyst for her decision to pursue music seriously. After years of performing in junior theater at San Diego’s Balboa Park and experimenting with dance and drama, she took a leap of faith by leaving college to move to LA and chase her dreams.

“It was a huge risk,” she admits. “But I knew in my heart I had to give it a shot. I could always go back to school later, but I felt this was my moment to go after what I truly wanted.”

A Distinctive Sound and Mission

Abrina’s music is a rich blend of her cultural roots and contemporary R&B, a combination she attributes to her upbringing. “Growing up singing Spanish songs with my grandfather taught me to sing with real soul,” she explains. “Spanish music is full of emotion and depth, and that has been instrumental in shaping my artistry.”

Today, her mission extends beyond creating great music. She aims to maintain full creative control over her career while supporting the community that has uplifted her. “There are so many people in my family and industry who have helped me,” Abrina says. “I hope to one day bless them as much as they’ve blessed me.”

Challenges in the Industry

Despite her growing success, Abrina is candid about the challenges artists face in today’s music landscape. From the low payouts of streaming platforms—just $0.003 per stream on Spotify—to the financial pressures of touring, she’s unafraid to voice her concerns. “Streaming doesn’t pay much unless you’re hitting millions, and even then, it’s barely enough to cover your expenses,” she notes.

Abrina also critiques the “pay-to-play” model, which forces emerging artists to lose money performing while promoters profit. She advocates for fairer revenue distribution across the industry to better support independent artists like herself.

Creating for Herself and Others

In addition to her own music, Abrina has found a niche writing songs for TV and film. This dual approach allows her to balance personal artistry with commercial opportunities. “Writing for TV and film is less stressful—there’s not as much pressure,” she says. “When it’s my own music, I’m my toughest critic, always trying to outdo myself.”

Looking Ahead

With her Violet Reign EP slated for release in April/May 2025, Abrina is focused on releasing singles and perfecting her craft. Her dream of touring the world remains a central goal. “I’d love to tour everywhere,” she says enthusiastically. “Experiencing other cultures through music is a dream. My must-visit places? Lake Como, Venice, Switzerland, the Maldives, and Singapore.”

The authenticity and drive are real as Abrina continues to rise. Whether she’s penning songs for the screen or blending R&B with Latin soul, her story is one of resilience, creativity, and a profound connection to her roots. Expect big things from this dynamic artist in the years ahead.