We had the good fortune of connecting with Precious Perez and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Precious, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
One thing about the music industry that outsiders are probably not aware of is the lack of representation as it relates to disability. When people think blind musician, for example, they think Stevie Wunder and Ray Charles. There isn’t a blind latina musician in the mainstream for me to look up to, so I’m striving to create that lane for myself and to expand representation in the industry.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a classically trained pop/R&B and latin singer/songwriter from Chelsea, MA. I am also an aspiring music educator. I represent multiple communities as a blind Puerto Rican woman who is also a first generation low-income college student with diagnosed anxiety with depressive symptoms. My goal as an artist is to break down barriers and show the world that blind people are as capable as anyone else, while also giving a voice to those who are not heard in my communities. When people think blind musician, they think Stevie wonder and Ray Charles. There isn’t anyone that looks like me or represents me in the industry as a blind latina woman. I am aiming to change that.
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.
I think the most fun things to do involve making memories and long lasting experiences. Checking out all the historic sites that are also interactive and accessible is one of my go to‘s, but mostly, food and restaurants. in the Boston area, there is so much history, but one of my favorite things are the swan boats in the Boston common. there are too many good restaurants to name all of them, but my favorite is my mom‘s home cooking.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I need to first and foremost thank my close friends and family for their unwavering support and endless love. I need to thank my former teachers who I now call friends, and my college mentors and professors for helping me grow as a person and a musician. I also need to thank the National Federation of the Blind for supporting my education and giving me the opportunities to develop as a leader and an advocate throughout the years. Last but not least, I need to thank God for all of the love and blessings I have been given.
Website: http://www.preciousperezmusica.com
Instagram: @precious_puertorican20
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/precious-perez-a0548915b
Twitter: @pulyperez1
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/preciousperezhummingbird/
Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UC-gU9Z844iI464Fc2ItIhvQ