I just released my newest song "Check" on Spotify and Apple Music! This is my first somewhat serious song, so I was nervous to push it out because I knew people would be confused that I did a 180 from comedy music to an R&B bop. But so far people really like it! I'm also working on a new song with my friend Kedo Rebelle where I'm helping him write and record vocals. But the biggest thing I'm starting to put together is an E.P that I'm hoping to release later this year.
1. Tell us about your background and journey.
I grew up in Milwaukee, WI doing a lot of theatre at my school. I was always trying to be involved as much as I can whether it was music, improv shows, or plays. But I watched so much television I was drawn to becoming a film actress, and Wisconsin isn't really well known for its booming film industry.
I convinced my mom into going to school in Los Angeles where I got my BA in theatre. After that I immediately jumped into acting which was so rough for me at first. I didn't know how to transition into the real world from this bubble that I was living in for the last 3 years.
Money was tight and my living situation was... questionable. And booking jobs that paid next to nothing didn't make the transition any easier. It was a huge reality check that I needed to take my career into my own hands. I started making sketches for Instagram and Youtube getting views here and there.
The views were mostly coming from my friends and family and I think I had about 900 followers. When quarantine hit and TikTok began popping off I gave the platform a shot to see where it would take me. Turns out it launched my career immensely as a creator.
I had a couple of viral videos with my most famous ones being the small town girl series. It highlighted points in my life visiting home after spending a month at college or coming back from studying abroad. A lot of people were able to relate to that content.
The app opened the doors to a lot of great opportunities and a wider audience. I also ventured out into music under the name Lady Yasmina, releasing my first single "Baroque" a comedy anthem about living the Bougie life on a budget.
I made a music video for it and so many people loved it! I'm still trying to bust down the doors of Hollywood but I'm so proud of how much I've grown creatively and mentally. And the best thing about it is I still feel like I'm just getting started!
2. Did you ever think or dream of becoming an actress?
I still do! The acting world is hard though. So much of it is about who you know and if you're in the right place at the right time. Which I get, but it does make you feel like you're putting in a lot of work for almost no payoff.
But it's important to stay focused, motivated, and incredibly patient. The patience part is what I struggle with the most! But being a creator helps make the journey a lot easier, especially with supportive followers who believe in you as well.
3. How did you take a break in the industry?
So far I wouldn't say I've taken a proper break yet. I still had my job in quarantine, but even with that I tried to stay creative through writing music and putting together sketches. It's kinda bad because the way I think is always "go, go go, can't stop till I get there".
But no matter how much I accomplish I always feel unsatisfied with my work or where I am as an artist. Once I get my vaccines and COVID starts to chill out, I want to travel around Europe again. I think that'll be a good break to kinda disconnect from the craziness.
4. What are the challenges you face and how do you overcome it?
The biggest challenges for me are always mental. I get anxiety very easily and that has often stalled my creativity or make me get into my head too much. This business is such a roller coaster that it's so easy to get discouraged and beat yourself up when a video doesn't get a lot of views or you don't land an audition etc.
I'm still trying to figure out what I can do to overcome it. But I started doing affirmation lists where I go through the things I'm grateful for. On top of that I try my best to not pressure myself in creating or posting when I feel overwhelmed. Streaming services and You tube have been a HUGE help to me.
5. What are some of your current and upcoming projects?
I just released my newest song "Check" on Spotify and Apple Music! This is my first somewhat serious song, so I was nervous to push it out because I knew people would be confused that I did a 180 from comedy music to an R&B bop. But so far people really like it!
I'm also working on a new song with my friend Kedo Rebelle where I'm helping him write and record vocals. But the biggest thing I'm starting to put together is an E.P that I'm hoping to release later this year! I have the bones of it but I'm slowly putting together the songs and budget for the entire project! I don't want to give away too much about it but it's definitely going to be an experience!
7. Any tips to the aspiring artists out there?
Make sure to always be proud of your work. As long as you're happy with what you put out there, you realize that everything else like the numbers or reception doesn't bother you as much.
And always remember that there is life outside of your business, so if you don't book the gig, or get the views, life keeps moving. Find a hobby that you want to do out of pure enjoyment.
Go on a walk, get some ice cream, sunbathe in the park .Those little moments keep you grounded and won't get you bogged down in that "struggling artist" stereotype. You can be happy and artistic at the same time!
Yasmine Sahid
Whether you’re laughing at her popular small town girl persona, or her relatable songs about the strife of being broke, comedian and singer Yasmine Sahid knows how to garner attention with her comedic talent and creative eye. The Midwest native transforms her personal experiences into relatable and self-deprecating humor that’s been sweeping social media and garnered a following of almost 200k. Working in a sea of talented creatives, the artist is making moves to stand out as a comedy and musical powerhouse!
Instagram id : @yasmine_sahid
Interviewed by : Ananie Borgia
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