Over the past few years fans have watched Lisa Panagos grow from a R&B / Soul novelty to a bonafide force in the genre. With a growing list of awards and an ever-expanding fan base, Lisa Panagos shows no signs of slowing down now. Of course the new track 'Just Right' has done much to accelerate this momentum. Being recently anointed as the recipient of the Akademia Music Grand Award for Best R&B / Soul Song on April 15, 2023 has only further expanded the reach of this talented artist.

LAUREN: What is the most surprising thing that has happened to you during the course of your music career?
LISA PANAGOS: The most surprising thing that has happened to me in my entire musical career is becoming a multi-award-winner from the Akademia Music Awards and many other award shows, and companies worldwide. Also, being accepted as a voting member of the Grammy awards, along with being Grammy-considered for my album “Inside.”
LAUREN: Your song 'Just Right' is receiving a positive listener response on radio. What was your initial reaction when you first heard your song playing on radio?
LISA PANAGOS: It’s always beyond exciting to hear your song on the radio. I felt pure joy! Many thanks to The Akademia, program directors worldwide, and friends on radio that add me to their stations daily.
LAUREN: What was the inspiration behind your radio single?
LISA PANAGOS: My radio single ‘Just Right’ was inspired by being in a rock n’ roll mood but wanting to keep the old school R&B vibe. Live musicians on this record and a killer mix as usual by Clark Germain made this song pop as a radio single. Thank you everyone!
LAUREN: Was there ever a time in your life when you felt creatively stifled and unable to make music?
LISA PANAGOS: Well, that’s a good question. Creativity is normally flowing but I was stifled during Covid. I live in the middle of Hollywood, Ca. My friends were dying and getting sick. I can’t write or create under extra stress. When I meditate, do yoga, and center myself, it all flows but I don’t believe in forcing it. For me, creativity is like a wave. I just wait for the next wave of creative inspiration to hit me. Then I ride it until the song is born.
LAUREN: How would you describe yourself in three words?
LISA PANAGOS: In three words I would say that I’m creative, ambitious, and loving.
LAUREN: Do you prefer to work alone or with a team?
LISA PANAGOS: I prefer to work alone to get a map of my creative ideas and then work with a team to bring all of my ideas to the next level. However, depending on the project, a team from the start can be helpful in certain areas.
LAUREN: Did you come from a musical background? Are there other musicians in your family?
LISA PANAGOS: I came from a musical background in that my Dad was in radio for a while and music was always playing in our house. Mainly the classics, like Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Nat King Cole, Barbra Streisand and more. He helped many minorities at the time make a comeback like Mahalia Jackson, Leslie Uggams and more. He owned an African American, and Spanish station.
LAUREN: What do you find most rewarding about being an artist? What do you find most challenging?
LISA PANAGOS: The most rewarding thing about being an artist is the ability to write and sing your stories and your truth and then watch your creations be born. The challenges are always having enough money to complete your projects to Industry standard, promote, and sell them.
LAUREN: Who would be your number one inspiration and role model in music?
LISA PANAGOS: My number one inspiration and role model in music? That’s a rough question because so many vocalists and musicians, female and male, have influenced me and been a role model. Examples are Sade, Prince, Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye, Ella Fitzgerald, Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, Mariah Carey, Adele and so many more. In short, I can’t just pick one!
LAUREN: Describe your funniest performance where things didn't quite go as planned.
LISA PANAGOS: My funniest performance where things didn’t go quite as planned? Hmm, that’s not a usual thing because I like to rehearse a lot so that that there are no crazy mishaps. I’m sure there have been a few but I can’t recall. Maybe a wardrobe malfunction since I like to change outfits.
LAUREN: What advice would you give to young, aspiring artists out there who are unsure and need guidance?
LISA PANAGOS: The advice I would give to a young, aspiring, artist in need of guidance is to stick with if if you feel the passion in your heart to continue as an artist. You never know what opportunity is around the corner so believe in yourself, march on, never give up on dreams. If your goals shift it’s okay, keep having fun pursuing your dreams and goals.
LAUREN: What's next for you as an artist? Is there an album in the works? If so, what can you tell us about it?
LISA PANAGOS: I have so many things in the works. A new album, movies and soundtracks. I’m so excited and feel fortunate to attract the right people that will be on my team to create more projects. My new album is still in the R&B/Soul, Adult Contemporary, pop crossover genre. I’m so excited for this new phase of my career. Thank you all so much for your continued support and recognition. I’m so grateful! Big kiss!
LAUREN: That sounds great! Thank you for giving us more insight into your life as an artist. I wish you much continued success in your career!
https://www.theakademia.com/artistkit/LisaPanagos-JustRight.html
http://www.lisapanagos.com