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

Hi Ramita, why did you pursue a creative career?
I am one of those musicians who was born singing and dancing. Before I could talk, I would crawl over to the television and press my ear against the speaker whenever there was music playing. I was absolutely enthralled by music and begged my parents for music lessons.

When I was around four years old, I declared that I would be a singer when I grew up. As I grew older, I began to dabble in songwriting when I was a teenager and started learning guitar to imitate my favourite songwriters. It wasn’t until I was halfway through high school when I realized not only did I want to be a musician growing up, I couldn’t imagine doing anything else. Music was it for me.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As an artist, I would say my story sets me apart. As an first generation Indian born in Canada, I have zero contacts in the music industry. I have a unique voice in the singer/songwriter genre that can be both a setback and what makes me stand apart. I am an introvert and usually prefer to work behind the scenes, which can make performing difficult.

It wasn’t easy, but I have learned over the years that I need to pave my own path. In an industry where only a small percentage of people are able to make a living in music, I had to create my own opportunities to accomplish my goals. I had a limited budget and couldn’t find a producer to work with, so I became my own producer. I published my own music and posted my own music videos. I learned how to play multiple instruments. Now, I am able to be self-sufficient, and have creative control over my projects, and it is part of why I love making music.

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 moved to Los Angeles in the middle of the pandemic just last year and haven’t been able to explore as much as I would like to. In Pasadena where I live, I would take them to the downtown area here to see the historical buildings blending in with modern-day life. We would probably go to Il Fornaio for great Italian food and Hello Gelato for dessert! I would also take them to Huntington Gardens if they love art museums and history.

Though I am excited to check out more of this beautiful city, I would definitely take a friend to Santa Monica. Between the beach, the restaurants and pier, it is one of the best staycations I’ve had. I would recommend Tumbi, where I had one of the best Indian meals in my life.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My parents have been incredibly supportive throughout my life. They let me to go on this crazy path in the arts and trusted me to figure it out, even though I had no idea what I was doing. They have always given me a home to come back to and kept their arms open.

Last year, I joined the LA Songwriters Collective (LASC), an amazing group of songwriters, artists and producers. We lift each other up in our musical endeavours and trade useful feedback on our songs. They taught me the importance of working together in this industry.

Website: ramitaarora.com

Instagram: instagram.com/ramitaarora

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/ramitaarora/

Youtube: youtube.com/ramitaarora

Other: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2G1tRKJAZyOT8qTOQw8ji7?si=sWMzPPQlQWOac5MQTz8NJA&dl_branch=1

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