POP NEWCOMER CALISTAR BRINGS HOPE FOR A UNIFIED AND MULTICULTURAL AMERICA IN “DON’T GIVE UP” –
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2 min read
It’s not everyday that a song comes out that is both universal and poignant to a noteworthy cause. In the wake of the pandemic era, violence and hate crimes against Asians have tragically increased, and singer-songwriter and community activist CaliStar is creating music to not only share her unique experience, but also as a call to action.
“I wanted to write a song that would capture the essence of my heart and life message,” CaliStar explains. “The rise in anti-Asian violence highlighted to me the importance of sharing who we are as Asian Americans through our art and culture so that people can see us as humans and understand us as people.”
Enlisting the help of famed director, Ron Yuan (Blade of the 47 Ronin), the music video for “Don’t Give Up” inspires Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) community members and allies alike to unite on behalf of a greater cause––standing together and uplifting one another. Ron decided to film a real life moment where CaliStar and actress Teresa Ting, speak passionately at a “Stop Asian Hate” rally hosted by Main Street Patrol in Queens, NY. CaliStar called upon her network of notable Asian-American creatives to come together and share their unique talents for this video, while spreading the powerful message of love along the way.
CaliStar encourages, “Unity is so important, especially authentic, non-performative unity, which isn’t easy to attain and will take a lot of effort to fight for. That’s the driving force behind this song and video.”
With a powerful singing voice and a songwriting style that is both uplifting and relatable, CaliStar reminds us of a modern Katy Perry.
“Everyone deserves to feel seen and valued for who they genuinely are,” CaliStar muses. “If we can look outside of ourselves and our own needs to see how we can support others, we will all come out stronger. Don’t give up the fight!”
Written by Joy Autumn
