Born and raised in “The Ville,” Christian R&B artist Lee Vasi initially auditioned for Season 16 of American Idol back in 2018. Although Vasi, who is of Puerto Rican-Dominican and African-American descent, advanced to Hollywood, unfortunately, she would be cut before the final 24 selection. However, hers is a story of resilience. Our Lee Vasi interview shares how she pivoted and came back even stronger!
2024 saw the release of Vasi’s single, “Teach Me” go viral on both Instagram and TikTok, also earning Lee a pair of entries – her very first – on the Billboard charts. Lee Vasi dives into her continued push to reach the mainstream and much more.
It was our pleasure to speak with the now Atlanta-based singer-songwriter-actress. Here’s our Lee Vasi interview.
Lee Vasi On…
“GPS”:
My new single “GPS” is all about seeking direction when life feels uncertain. It’s a reminder that, just like a GPS guides you, God’s love is always there to help you find your way. The melody came to me in the middle of the night, and I felt it was divinely inspired. As I recorded the voice memo, I also got the reminder that I don’t always need to know everything ahead of time—I just have to take the first step and trust God to lead me. When I went to the studio the next day, that voice memo became a key part of the production, and I wanted the song to feel both personal and anthemic.
“GPS” vs. previous Lee Vasi songs:
“GPS” is similar to a lot of my previous releases in that it’s very heartfelt and reflective lyrically. But musically, I really wanted to take the production and overall experience of the song to the next level. This is my first release where I was part of the production process and sound selection, and I was really blessed to work with two producers, Kid Class and Bobby Keyz, to craft something that feels really authentic to me, but also next level and more dramatic sonically. It was a really cool process how we brought the song together, so it holds a special place in my heart.
Songwriting:
My inspiration always comes from either something I’ve lived in the past, or something I’m living currently. My music is definitely my story, and the expression of my relationship with the Lord.
Musical Inception:
I’ve always been a performer! I started doing musical theater when I was 7 years old, but was singing around the house long before that. I wrote my first song at 10, and always saw myself on stage. I’ve been a student of music for most of my life because I always had a genuine love for it and the way that music connects us to each other.
Influences:
Yes, I’m from Fayetteville, NC! Growing up, my strongest musical influences were Mariah Carey and Selena! I definitely have an expansive range of musical influences, especially since I grew up in a multicultural household, so it’s always been important to me to represent the fullness of my experiences through my own music.
Sound and / or style:
I’m a Christian R&B artist, and my sound is all about creating a space where people can reflect, heal, and grow spiritually through a blend of R&B and Latin sonics, with Gospel-centered lyrics. It’s about making faith feel personal and relatable, with a sound that really reflects my experiences and love for the Lord and the music He’s given me.
Lee Vasi music:
I want to connect emotionally, but also inspire hope and strength in others, letting them know that no matter the struggle, God always leaves room for grace and redemption.
Dream collab:
Mariah Carey! I’m so inspired by her as both (as) a vocalist and songwriter. Her song, “Fly Like a Bird,” has always resonated with me in such a deep way. I would be honored to collaborate with her.
Wish list venue:
Madison Square Garden. It’s always been a dream of mine!
Current state of music:
I think there’s a lot of really positive things happening, especially in the Christian music space!
What do you feel has and will continue to be the key to your longevity?
Obedience to the Lord.
Other (future) aspirations:
I really love to not limit myself! I have so many aspirations – some of which are an extension of my music, and others that would probably surprise people! I definitely want to continue to grow as a businesswoman, so I’m excited to explore that part of myself more.
Career highlight:
Probably when “Teach Me” charted on Billboard!! That completely caught me by surprise and it was such a surreal moment for me. It was one of those moments I always dreamed about as a kid, and it was hard to believe it was actually happening when it did! So, yeah, that was really, really cool.
Typical day(s):
Every day is different! Some days are more creative-focused, where I’m in the studio or rehearsing or doing photoshoots / content / interviews. And then most days are really business-oriented! I’m very involved in brainstorming strategies with my team and staying on top of admin. and meetings.
Fan(s) interaction:
Right now, a lot of my interactions happen on social media, and I’m so grateful to be able to connect with people, no matter where they are in the world! The amount of support and outpour of love that I’ve received from people has been really humbling and I hope to be able to connect more in-person this year!
Most / least fave(s) aspect:
My favorite part is sharing it with others! I write from such a personal place, so it’s always amazing to me to see the way that the Lord uses my songs in other people’s lives. My least favorite part is when I have to leave my dog to travel for work! I love him so much and just wish he could go with me everywhere!
Career advice:
Submit your plans to the Lord, give your gifts back to Him, and trust Him to lead the way.
5-10 year(s) plan:
Five years from now, I’ll still be making music inspired by my relationship with God!
What’s next:
Definitely more music on the way, and I’m excited to do more shows this year!
Anything else:
I don’t think so! Thanks so much for your time!
Closing thought(s)?
Yeah! If you listen to my music, I hope it leaves you encouraged and excited to lean into a relationship with God! You can find my music on all streaming platforms, and find me on IG / TikTok: @leeleevasi. Thank you for having me.
