Charlotte Welcomes Pam Reyes: A Night of Music and Connection
CHARLOTTE – On a cozy evening full of anticipation, the Storrs building at UNC Charlotte was alive with the sounds of heartfelt melodies and the stories they tell. On November 19th, independent singer-songwriter Pam Reyes graced the stage, bringing with her a beautiful mix of personal experiences and an authentic touch to her music that resonated deeply with students and attendees.
A Voice for the Underrepresented
Pam Reyes, who originally hails from Queens, New York, but now calls Austin, Texas, home, is not just any singer-songwriter; she is a first-generation immigrant, and her journey is woven into every lyrical line she pens. During her mesmerizing performance, she touched on topics such as love, loss, and political struggles, all while radiating a sense of vulnerability that left the audience spellbound.
“I write a lot about things that interest me in both my inner world and the world around me,” says Reyes. “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.” Her ability to craft such personal songs connects with people on a profound level, making her performances not just a show but a shared experience.
Bridging Art and Academia
The concert was more than just a music event; it was hosted in collaboration with the Student Association of Sociology. Reyes expressed gratitude for the chance to discuss her art in a scholarly context, which was a first for her. After the music wrapped up, attendees had the wonderful opportunity to engage with Reyes, asking her about her creative process and personal journey.
“Students connected with Pam in a variety of ways,” said Scott Fitzgerald, Chair of the Sociology Department. “Her experiences as a first-generation Filipino immigrant, a Queer woman, and someone striving to live a meaningful life resonated with many.” Thanks to a collaboration between Fitzgerald and a colleague from Appalachian State University who has known Reyes since their time in New York, the concert was not only possible but a beautiful fusion of art and academia.
The Journey of an Independent Artist
Reyes’ music is thriving despite the challenges faced as an independent artist, such as navigating marketing difficulties and time management, especially without the backing of a record label. On August 9, 2024, she released her debut album “Temporary”, which she wrote, produced, and recorded herself. “It’s important when you’re an independent artist to measure success based on your own parameters,” Reyes notes. “I think it’s successful that I wrote, recorded, and learned how to build a small-scale studio on my own to release a full-length album.” Talk about dedication!
Inspiring Voices in Music
Pam’s journey has not been without its difficulties—being Queer, Filipina, and a first-generation immigrant has come with its own set of challenges in a largely traditional industry. “I was very aware that I’d be a minority voice in the singer-songwriter space,” she says. Yet, instead of feeling discouraged, it fueled her passion: “It made me feel vulnerable, but it also became a place where I could draw power, so I leaned into it.” Her motivation to create music was partly driven by the lack of representation she noticed among artists. Reyes aims to fill that gap, not just for herself but for others who share similar backgrounds and stories.
Empowerment Through Music
Fitzgerald emphasizes the need for diversity within the music industry: “Art is fundamentally about community—supporting, challenging, and embracing different ideas and perspectives.” Having a wide range of artists like Reyes is crucial for fostering connections and building inclusive communities.
While Reyes draws inspiration from artists like Hurray for the Riff Raff and Sasami, known for their genre-bending styles, she encourages others to pick up an instrument and explore their musical capabilities: “Music is accessible to everyone,” she reminds her audience. “It’s empowering, and it helps you gain confidence and find your voice.”
Wrapping Up an Evening to Remember
The night concluded with the warmth of conversations and connections that blossomed between Reyes and her audience. Students left feeling inspired, encouraged to chase their artistic dreams while embracing their unique voices and stories. In a world that sometimes feels divided, events like these remind us of the unifying magic of music, art, and shared experiences.
