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

Hi Simona, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I don’t think I pursued or rather chose this path. This path chose me and even though I grew up in a non creative household and didn’t really have the opportunity to express myself creatively growing up in a small town in Germany, I ended up in Hollywood. For me it’s really life or death, because if I wasn’t able to write songs and movies and act, dance and sing, it would drive me crazy and it would feel like I am imploding.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. 
What sets me apart is that I really just try to be myself and I think that’s something that would set apart any artist. I am true to myself and enjoy what I do and I think it shows, even though some might not like it but that’s alright with me.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I recently discovered this amazing vegan spot Love Organic on Santa Monica Blvd. The food tastes so good, especially the truffle sushi roll. Other than at restaurants, you’ll probably see me hiking the Paseo Miramar trail or shopping on sundays at the flea market by the Fairfax High school.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I think along with myself there are so many people that I want to shoutout for supporting me, I hope I don’t forget. My insanely wise, fun and talented producer Dakari @itsdakari who believed in me when I only had voice messages of song ideas and who helped me find my vibe. I also want to shoutout Sasha Vianey @sashavianey who is the best manager and woman for everything you could imagine. She just does things, no talking, just actions.

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

Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCU_JKOYnTRTIFTdKvRYyt-w

Image Credits
@maxine_bowen

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA 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.