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

Hi Ranella, what role has risk played in your life or career?
If it wasn’t for risk, I wouldn’t be here. My whole life has been a risk, from leaving the Philippines to chase my dreams in Los Angeles, to stepping on stages without knowing where the next opportunity would come from. Every major moment in my career came from betting on myself when no one else could see the vision yet.

Risk, to me, isn’t something to fear, it’s a form of faith. It’s trusting that your purpose is bigger than your comfort zone. Every time I’ve taken a leap, whether it was performing at a major arena, starting a new business venture, or sharing my story publicly, it’s pushed me to grow beyond what I thought was possible.

Taking risks is the reason I’ve become who I am today, a woman who refuses to wait for permission to shine.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
No, it wasn’t easy at all. Being one of the first Asian-American artists in the mainstream music industry came with a lot of challenges. The business can be tough and unforgiving, especially when you often find yourself as the only Asian in the room even to this day. There were moments of doubt, rejection, and constant questioning of my worth and my place in the industry.

What sets me apart is that I’ve built everything authentically and independently. I’ve worked hard for every opportunity without shortcuts, handouts, or compromising my integrity. In an industry where many are pressured to play the game or use relationships to advance, I chose to take the longer, harder road to do things the right way, with self-respect and purpose. My journey may not have been fast, but it’s been real, and that’s something I take deep pride in.

There were times when the struggle felt overwhelming balancing survival, work, and the dream especially when people tried to undervalue me or offer “opportunities” that didn’t align with my morals. But I never gave up. I kept fighting, kept believing, and kept trusting that God had a plan for me. Every time I thought about walking away, another door would open. My faith, the support of genuine people, and the deep knowing that this is my calling kept me going.

Music isn’t just a career to me it’s my purpose. It’s how I connect, heal, and inspire others to rise above their circumstances. I want the world to know that no matter how long it takes or how hard it gets, integrity and authenticity will always outlast shortcuts. I am living proof that when you stay true to who you are, God will make sure your light shines exactly where it’s meant to.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend came to visit, here’s exactly how I’d show them the best of Los Angeles and beyond a mix of beaches, culture, fitness, fun, and nightlife!

Day 1 – Welcome to LA

Start the trip off easy with a beach day, Malibu or Santa Monica to soak in that California sunshine. We’d grab lunch by the ocean and unwind before diving into the city life.

Day 2 – Hollywood & Views

We’d head to Griffith Park and hike up to the Observatory for a stunning view of the city and the Hollywood sign. Then stroll through Hollywood Boulevard to see the Walk of Fame and maybe stop by Musso & Frank for dinner.

Day 3 – Rodeo Drive & Beverly Hills

A day of luxury and people-watching! We’d walk down Rodeo Drive, do a little window shopping, and enjoy a chic lunch at Il Pastaio or The Ivy.

Day 4 – Hidden Gem: Naples Island

One of my favorite places is Naples Island in Long Beach. It’s like a little slice of Italy with peaceful canals and a beautiful marina. I used to live there, and it’s truly magical. We’d take a gondola ride, eat by the water, and just relax.

Day 5 – Nightlife in LA

I’m not a big drinker, but when it comes to nightlife, I know where to go! My friends work with SBE, so I’d take them to some of the best clubs and lounges in Los Angeles, exclusive, classy, and full of energy. It’s the perfect way to experience LA after dark.

Day 6 – Fitness & Fun

I’d take them to Runyon or one of LA’s top gyms… honestly, the gym scene here is wild. You might bump into celebrities, athletes, or models working out. It’s also a fun way to balance out all the food and nightlife from earlier in the week!

Day 7 – Spontaneous Road Trip

To wrap up the week, why not drive to Las Vegas? It’s only about four hours away, and it’s always an unforgettable time — great food, shows, and pure entertainment.

That’s the perfect LA week: sunshine, good energy, iconic views, and a little adventure — exactly what the City of Angels is all about.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I give so much credit to my mom and dad, who truly shaped the woman I am today.

My dad was a ship captain who traveled all over the world, and he embedded discipline, integrity, and strength in me from a young age. He always reminded me to stay grounded, to never lose my soul in the process of chasing my dreams, and to make sure I can always sleep peacefully at night knowing I’ve done right by others. That foundation of moral clarity has guided every part of my life and career.

My mom, on the other hand, taught me class, grace, and confidence not just in how I look, but in how I carry myself and treat people. She was actually a beauty queen when she was younger, so she instilled in me the importance of presentation, self-respect, and kindness in every interaction. She showed me that attitude is everything in business, in entertainment, and in life.

Everything I’ve accomplished is built on the lessons they poured into me a balance of discipline and heart, strength and elegance.

Instagram: https://instagram.com/ranellaferrer

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ranellasworld

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/ranella-ferrer

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ranellaferrer

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/IamRanella

Other: X: https://x.com/iamranella

Image Credits
Makeup by Tayla June @getchafleekon
Photo by Robert Waters @graffight
“Queen I’am” Album Cover

Lakers
Dodgers
Etc

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