Hailing from Norfolk, Virginia, USA, Krystal Brown has carved a unique niche for herself in the music industry. With influences as diverse as Brandy, a-ha, and Depeche Mode, her musical style resonates as an eclectic blend of indie dance with a distinct touch of urban flair. Her innovative songwriting technique, captivating themes, and impactful collaborations have firmly established Brown as an artist with an authentic voice that continues to inspire others.
The genesis of Brown’s songwriting process is as unconventional as it is effective. She thinks about a song concept and writes it out using index cards, each part of the song getting its own card. By shuffling these cards, she shapes the song’s flow, creating a vibrant composition, which she later brings to life through her powerful vocals. Brown’s music is the product of a thoughtful process that ensures her distinctive sound remains consistent.
Unlike many contemporary artists who mainly focus on themes of lust and sex, Brown’s music shines with a unique thematic richness. She has talked about a broad spectrum of topics, from the socio-cultural issue of deadbeat fathers in her song “Sisyphus,” to the poignant exploration of the human-animal connection in “Frankie Boy.” Her songs are much more than auditory experiences; they serve as mirrors reflecting various facets of society.
Her recent single “Ariel” is an exquisite example of how she channels her creativity into addressing real-world issues. Written in response to racists who degraded Halle Bailey for playing Ariel in Disney’s live-action remake of The Little Mermaid, the song is a testament to Brown’s willingness to leverage her platform for advocacy and influence.
Krystal’s collaborations also speak volumes about her musical versatility. Working with LaToya Robbey on the upcoming track “At Night,” she embraced another perspective and voice, which enriched her musical vision and created a unique synergy.
The artist draws inspiration from her surroundings, viewing everyday life as a rich tapestry of ideas, waiting to be woven into songs. Her daily engagement on social platforms like Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and YouTube allows her to stay connected with her fans, sharing moments, inspirations, and new projects. She uses these platforms strategically to promote her music while ensuring consistent and meaningful interaction with her audience.
A significant milestone in her career came with the release of her third album, “Sugar Free.” This was her first full-length album, and its creation marked a notable shift in her career. Through her music, she has bravely shared personal experiences, such as her struggle with an eating disorder in the track “Sisyphus,” and an abusive relative in “Last to Know.” These personal narratives embedded in her songs underscore the authenticity and raw emotion that characterizes her music.
Despite her artistic commitment, Brown manages to balance her personal life with her music career by dedicating a portion of each day to her craft. Her long-term aspiration is to create a financially sustainable career with her music—an objective she is well on her way to achieving.
Krystal Brown’s music offers a refreshing authenticity in an industry often dominated by manufactured sounds. Her ultimate hope is that her listeners find enjoyment in her work—an unpretentious goal that reflects the genuine spirit she embodies as an artist. Indeed, through her unique sound, thought-provoking themes, and commitment to authenticity, Brown continues to inspire countless individuals across the globe.
Find her inspiring journey and listen to her music on her Instagram @krystalbrownsinger and on Spotify here.