For Paulina Zelman, the release of her new album “One & Only” is a culmination of a lifelong musical journey. From playing in a middle school band and teaching herself to play the guitar and ukulele, to creating single after melodic single during quarantine, Paulina has always gravitated towards music and has a deep rooted passion for it.
While she wouldn’t describe herself as a prodigy, her skillset from a young age would suggest otherwise. She knew how to play the piano at just 7 years old, and learned the trumpet in her band class. From there, Paulina taught herself the guitar and ukulele. Perhaps her love for the therapeutic aspects of playing instruments distracts her from how much raw talent she has, but it is evident.
With all of the personal success she’s had with music, she was still very hesitant to release her album to the public. She poured her heart and soul into the album, and details thoughts and experiences that are very private and personal to her. After overcoming her fears of judgment and insecurities, Paulina released the album and it received great praise. The project puts all of her incredible talents and emotions on display, and the music is uplifting with its themes of love, friendship, confidence, and happiness.
Paulina says it has been difficult dealing with those that have put her down or disrespected her regarding her music, but she has grown to accept that not everyone will be receptive and supportive of her music. She says that she has received polarizing responses to her music, and they are either extremely positive or hateful. It has made her stronger as a result, and will allow her to be confident and proud of any music she releases moving forward.
Paulina also is a big believer of being candid about both failure and success, as it is only part of being human. Regardless of what someone showcases on social media and on the surface, no one is perfect and her opening up about her weaknesses allows people to feel comfortable showing their vulnerabilities in response. Being transparent about her journey has led to connection with her audience, and Paulina believes that failing is success in itself. Without failure, that just shows that you are not trying hard enough to chase your dreams and Paulina believes that chasing her musical dream is already a huge win no matter what.
There is no doubt that Paulina has always chased her musical dreams, and her progress as a musician will only guarantee huge success for her in her career.
