Singer on way to making it big in LA

WHAT was once a childhood dream is now an exciting reality for a local singer, as she has signed on to a major record label in Los Angeles.

Larissa Lambert was offered a deal with American singer-songwriter Jeremih, to become the first signed artist under him.

Ms Lambert also had the chance to perform with Jeremih during his Australian tour, where she sang in front of thousands in Melbourne, Sydney and Canberra.

The Ballarat-born singer said she is incredibly grateful for the opportunity to produce music with the rapper.

“He’s super talented and intelligent, I definitely look up to him a lot. I feel blessed to have crossed paths with him and I can’t wait to share the music we have been creating,” she said.

The 23-year-old’s journey first started in 2009, when she uploaded a video to YouTube of her singing Missy Higgin’s song Don’t Ever.

Nearly 11 years later, Larissa’s channel has reached almost 2,500,000 views, with thousands of comments praising the musician for her voice.

In 2014, Larissa performed with girl-group Paris Inc on the X Factor, where they were met with a standing ovation from the crowd.

“Singing with Paris Inc on the X Factor was great! It was a massive steppingstone and we all learnt so much,” she said.

Ms Lambert is currently back and forth between LA and Australia but will be moving permanently to the United States in a few months.

She said Los Angeles is great for work opportunities and networking and has amazing food.

“Don’t come here if you’re trying to diet!” She said.

On her path to her dream career, the musician has encountered more than enough roadblocks and personal issues, yet her determination has never faltered.

“I have had a lot of struggles with my mental health and things that I’ve worked at for years end up falling apart,” she said. “But it always works out in the end. I wouldn’t be where I am now if I didn’t have those experiences.”

Ms Lambert said her advice for young people seeking a career in the music industry is to stay true to yourself and know your worth.

“It’s very easy for people to take advantage of you in this industry, so always speak up. If something doesn’t feel right, it most likely isn’t,” she said.