Meet Athena Wrong | Singer, Songwriter & Multi Disciplinary Artist

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

Hi ATHENA, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
I truly believe that everything you’ve ever wanted is just beyond your fears. For me, embracing risk has always felt vital, and reading Susan Jeffers’ Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway really solidified this understanding. Jeffers explores how our fears often stem from the belief that we won’t be able to handle whatever life throws our way. As musicians, it’s easy to fall into the trap of playing it safe, thinking it’s the best way to protect our creative selves.

But I’ve learned that to truly grow and achieve our dreams, we need to face those fears head-on. Taking risks in music—whether it’s performing in a new venue, experimenting with a different style, or collaborating with other artists—requires us to trust that we can handle the outcomes. Personally, I’ve found that sometimes you just have to take that leap, even if you don’t feel completely ready. The truth is, you’ll never know when you’re truly ready, so why wait?

Risks have played a massive role in my life and career—it’s almost laughable in a sweet way how everything I’ve achieved came from deciding to just say “F it” and go full speed toward my dreams. I remember how I was itching to make more progress with my performances. When an opportunity popped up, I grabbed it, and it felt like the floodgates opened—suddenly, I had more chances to perform than I could have imagined. Playing shows also became a gateway to meeting so many incredible musicians. If I hadn’t pushed myself to strike up conversations and put myself out there, I wouldn’t have had the chance to collaborate with the artists I work with now.

By no means am I perfect when it comes to making bold moves. I still get nervous talking to some people, fearing rejection, but I force myself to do it anyway, and unsurprisingly, it gets easier! I wasn’t always this fearless. I used to feel less confident, and felt like my dreams were far away. But then it clicked: none of that was true; it was just the negative voices of doubt in my head, and I had no more time to waste. The theme of my life for the past six months has truly been about taking more risks, and this shift has allowed me to trust and believe in myself more than ever. With that trust, I know I can turn my desires into reality because it’s meant to be my reality!

Every opportunity—whether it’s diving into a new romantic relationship, putting yourself out there to make new friends, or pursuing a bold career move—can be intimidating. Yet, stepping out of your comfort zone is often the gateway to realizing your dreams. Move fearlessly towards your dreams, do everything with passion, and take the risk. I believe the universe gives us chances that we’re ready to take on, so it’s crucial to seize them. Don’t be afraid to share your creative vision and connect with others who might be on the same journey. Sometimes, the best collaborations and breakthroughs come from taking those risks and reaching out.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
At my core, I’m a musician—specifically a singer-songwriter with a deep passion for visual art. But I never want to confine myself to just one artistic medium; I envision exploring many more creative avenues. My journey is deeply personal: I grew up in San Diego, raised by my mom and brother, and my Mexican heritage has always been a big part of who I am. Learning to love and accept myself, heal family wounds, and overcome feelings of isolation have all shaped my artistic identity. These experiences influence my music and art in a way that’s uniquely my own.

I believe my vocal tonality is diverse, and my sound is uniquely my own. I can be a soprano one moment, then a deep soul singer the next, but what I love most is belting from the top of my lungs and experimenting with vocal flips! The way I fall in and out of creative flows, is entirely different from anyone else, and the ways in which I approach songwriting can be very impractical, for example, I’ve definitely considered putting myself in extreme situations for the sake of inspiration for a new song! I’m open minded and nothing will ever be off the table, I guess I am fluid and that makes me stand out.

I’m especially excited about my upcoming performance at the Viper Room in Los Angeles on September 14th and the launch of my website coming this year! I’m also really looking forward to sharing the new music I’m working on, but no spoilers for now..

Hell nooo this ain’t easy haha, but it’s worth it. I wouldn’t be going after anything else but my dreams. It makes the simple things in life that much more sweet, and helps give me purpose. I got to where I am today through sheer stubbornness, determined to make my dreams a reality regardless of the circumstances. It took a great deal of discipline, willpower, compassion toward myself, and even some lazy days to help maintain my sanity.

Navigating these challenges has taught me the importance of surrounding myself with supportive friends and family, taking time to rest, and trusting that what’s meant for me will come. I’ve learned to put myself out there, not worry too much about embarrassing moments, and lean on my inner circle for support and creativity.

I want people to know that I’m living authentically, letting my music tell my stories, and constantly evolving along with my art.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Honestly, I’m still uncovering all that LA has to offer, and that’s what makes it so incredible—the city is a playground with endless possibilities. If you’re craving some tranquility in a stunning garden, check out the Self Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine off the PCH. For some killer street tacos, hit up the taco truck on Lincoln Boulevard in front of Whole Foods. Planning a chic French date? Bicyclette is the spot. And if you want to kick back with friends and soak up some greenery, Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area has you covered with its sprawling, lush fields.

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?
First things first… A huge shoutout to my big brother, BRITTEN WRONG, who’s not just a rapper, songwriter, and multidisciplinary artist but also my first mentor in the world of music. His own creative journey opened my eyes to exploring my own path. He was the first to teach me about recording music, making beats, and taking songwriting seriously. I owe so much of my early musical growth to him and the way he introduced me to the world of music. There is no ATHENA WRONG without BRITTEN WRONG, how do you think I got my artist name? haha

Secondly, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to my incredible friends: Lauren Byrnes, for being my steadfast rock with your acting, directorial guidance, marketing strategies and overall friendship; Jesse Ray Payne, for your expertise in directing, videography, producing, editing, and invaluable creative advice; WILLWAS for making incredible musical productions; Will Portman, for your exceptional production work, photography, videography, and sharp aesthetic sense; Shei Marcelline, for your essential support in publicity, journalism, PR, and stunning photography; Jess Marchese, for your invaluable help in creating my short film; and Caitie Belle, for your outstanding visual art and photography. Your creative contributions have been essential to my projects, and without your expertise, much of my art would not have come to life. Thank you for dedicating your energy, time, and hearts in making lasting art!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/athena.wrong/?hl=en

Twitter: https://x.com/athenawrong

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/athena.wrong.1/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ATHENAWRONG

Other: Tik-Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@athenawrong?lang=en
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7waAiN0dJa5nQsDX5xd5N3
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/athena-wrong/1438125282

Image Credits
Shei Marcelline