Charlotte Hosts Canadian Musician Pam Reyes for an Insightful Performance
Charlotte, North Carolina – On November 19, 2024, independent singer-songwriter Pam Reyes captivated students at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte with a performance highlighting themes of love, loss, and social issues. The concert, held at the Storrs building, was organized in partnership with the Student Association of Sociology.
Background of the Artist
Originally from Queens, New York, Reyes now calls Austin, Texas home. As a first-generation immigrant from the Philippines and identifying as a Queer woman, Reyes brings a unique perspective to her songwriting. Her heartfelt lyrics are often grounded in personal experiences, yet resonate with broader societal issues. “Even though my lyrics are highly autobiographical, they often come from my subconscious—I learn more about my own life after the song is written,” she shared during the event.
Event Highlights
Reyes’ performance was a blend of music and discussion, allowing attendees to engage with her on various topics, including her experiences as an immigrant and artist. The event facilitated a connection between Reyes and the students who resonated with her identity and artistic journey. Scott Fitzgerald, Chair of the Sociology Department, remarked on the significance of her visit, stating, “Students connected with Pam in a variety of ways.”
Collaboration and Community
The collaboration to host Reyes stemmed from Fitzgerald’s connections at Appalachian State University, where Reyes also performed the day before. Organizing such events creates an enriching experience for students, offering them insights into the struggles and triumphs faced by independent artists. Reyes noted her gratitude for being able to discuss her art in an academic setting.
Challenges as an Independent Artist
Being an independent musician does come with hurdles. Reyes does not work under a record label, which can present difficulties in marketing, time management, and financial support. Despite these challenges, her self-produced debut album, “Temporary,” released on August 9, 2024, showcases her determination. “I think it’s successful that I wrote, recorded, and learned how to build a small-scale studio on my own,” she stated, reflecting on her journey.
Empowerment Through Art
Reyes brings to light the importance of diversity in music. “I was very aware that I’d be a minority voice in the singer-songwriter space. It made me feel vulnerable, but I leaned into it,” she expressed. Bringing representation for Queer, Filipino, and immigrant voices is vital to her work. She emphasized that art is fundamentally about community, collaboration, and transformation.
Inspiration and Motivation
Influenced by artists like Hurray for the Riff Raff and Sasami, Reyes embraces genre diversity in her music. Starting to play guitar at the age of 15, she initially faced challenges in motivation but rediscovered her passion at 18, later learning ukulele and taking formal piano training. Reyes encourages aspiring musicians to persevere through challenges, stating, “I suggest picking up an instrument because it helps you gain confidence and find your voice.”
A Message to the Audience
With the conclusion of her performance at UNC Charlotte, Reyes left the audience with a powerful message about the accessibility of music. “Music is accessible to everyone,” she asserted, hoping to inspire others to explore their creativity.
This event not only showcased Reyes’ talent but also emphasized the significance of understanding diverse perspectives within the music scene, creating a platform that empowers students and fosters community connection.
