Independent Artist Spotlight: Katja Glieson

I don't think there is one thing in this world that unites us all more than the gift of music. It transcends time,distance,and all barriers. The life blood of the music industry can not only be found in today's chart busting artists, but also in the up and coming stars that are independent artists. 

When you think of your life, music has probably had a major impact on you and for good reason. When words fail,music speaks. I have wanted to find new ways to support people who inspire me, so I felt compelled to share one of my absolute favorite artists because she has not only got incredible music, she also has a very powerful story.

 Katja Glieson was born and raised in Melbourne,Australia and had always dreamed of doing what she loves most-creating and sharing her music with the world and making a difference. This young powerhouse came to the U.S. before she was 18 leaving behind her family and friends to pursue her dreams. Like many of you, I learned of  Katja from the highly successful "Princess Rap Battle: Snow White VS Elsa" YouTube video by Whitney Avalon. Since then I have enjoyed many of her original and cover songs and am very excited for the release of her new music video of her hit song "Ride the Wave". (Music available at www.KatjaGlieson.com)

Growing up Katja dealt with being bullied relentlessly. She was sought out specifically by one individual who would hit her. Despite all that Katja has been through, this incredible young lady somehow has the heart to love people for who they are and make her fans feel so important. Katja struggled with her weight and bullying all through school. When she lost the weight, the bullying didn't stop there. She goes into detail in a touching documentary on Vimeo called "We Are Human" where she makes a heartfelt statement that no matter who you are talking to, remember that they are not a robot, they are not an object-they are a person.(We Are Human Documentary ) Katja's anti-bullying song "Shooting Star" has just recently been selected as the theme song for Doctor's Hospital in Augusta,GA new "Live Your Healthy" campaign!

Katja is an inspiring and kind young lady and shares her daily life with an adorable Samoyed pup named Annika and has a loyal following of fans she affectionately calls her "Special Agents". She has shared her musical journey via her various social media platforms (Twitter,Vine,YouTube,Periscope,Instagram and Facebook) and she also shares more of her story with us at her website www.KatjaGlieson.com. I became a fan of hers after watching the Princess Rap Battle over a year ago, but what made me want to really get behind her was when I actually heard her story and was moved to tears. I hope after reading this article, you will too. When it comes to supporting any artist, especially your favorite ones, it is important to remember that it is not "just a song". There are hours of hard work and preparation involved. There are sleepless nights. There are heartbreaks. There are so many factors that an artist, (especially an independent one) faces each day just for the love of their craft and it is out of this appreciation for her hard work that I write this article and share the story of someone who has inspired me and so many others. 

You can hear Katja's latest song "Ride the Wave" on Spotify now, but even better-you can purchase a copy of your own on Amazon, Itunes, and GooglePlay.