Freshman Sarah Qureshi, from Orlando, Florida, is a talented singer with a recorded album. She continues to build her fan base through her YouTube channel, where she features a music video for her original song “Not Good Enough.” We got the opportunity to talk to her about love of music.
How long have you been singing?
Wow, I really couldn’t tell you how long I’ve been singing. It’s been a really long time. All I can remember is that my parents would tell me that when I was a kid, maybe around 6 or 7 years old, I would always be singing, humming some sort of tune. Either way, I would never shut up! I think I really began taking singing seriously in 4th grade when I joined choir. Ever since then, music has been an incredible part of my life and I love it.
Can you tell me about the music that you are interested in?
I honestly love all kinds of music. Depending on my mood, you could catch me listening to pretty much any genre. But, if I had to choose one that I absolutely love, I would have to go with R&B / Pop / Soul Music. This ranges from 90’s R&B Music all the way to today’s radio hits. Most of the music I write and play has that R&B vibe and melody.
Who are some of your musical influences?
I have so many artists that I admire and look up to for different reasons. I absolutely love Alicia Keys. To me, she represents a true musician with such a natural stage presence and talent. She really inspired me to take the time to learn piano, and ever since then, I’ve been teaching myself piano using YouTube videos and I absolutely love it! Other musical influences of mine have to be Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston, Christina Aguilera, and Stevie Wonder. They all have such different voices but each of them have such incredible tones and qualities to their voices that really just blow me away.
What are some of the events you have performed at?
I’ve performed at quite a few events, but some of the most memorable ones would have to be the charity events that I sang at back in Orlando.
What has been your biggest accomplishment as an artist?
My biggest accomplishment as an artist was recording my first demo tape and music video. I think at that point it all became so real to me, and I realized how much I love performing, singing, and sharing my voice with everyone. One of my most memorable moments as an artist, however, would have to be my 11th grade talent show. It was our school’s first talent show competition, and I sang “I Have Nothing” by Whitney Houston. When I won Best in Show, I can’t explain the incredible sense of accomplishment I felt. It really made me realize that this is something I could really enjoy doing for the rest of my life.
What has been your favorite class at UM?
Oh wow, this is hard considering I’m only a freshman, but I’d have to say that my favorite class so far has been my Spanish 214 Class I took last semester. It was without a doubt one of the hardest classes I’ve taken so far here at the U, but I absolutely love speaking Spanish and learning new languages.
What are your ambitions for the future?
Honestly, I always dream big. I love the thought of singing, playing piano and performing for the world. I think it’s something that I’m really meant to be doing, and I’ve never felt more passionate about something in my life. Even more, I love the idea of creating meaningful music that takes a toll on people. I think that’s one of the best feelings. So, I hope, at the end of the day, for my dreams to come true and for music to always be a huge part of my life.
Is there anything coming up that you are excited for?
Yes! On April 19, I’m performing at Applause for a Cause. I’m super excited, and I hope to see a bunch of you all out there!
How can people stay in touch with you and updated on your music?
Well, there a couple of ways. I just recently got a Twitter, so you can follow me and tweet me @Sarahq51. You can like my facebook page: www.facebook.com/sarahqmusic. You can also go onto my YouTube Channel and subscribe:http://www.youtube.com/user/SarahQMusiq?feature=mhee.