It didn’t take 21-year-old Kamry Hill from Detroit long to find her passion. She was only in the third grade when she fell in love with music, started writing songs, and competed in talent shows.
Though she had an early start, it wasn’t until her first year of high school that she recorded her first track, “Get In Yo Bag,” in collaboration with her brother. After a three-year hiatus, her passion reignited during her senior year of high school, and she published her first EP, “Thoughts,” featuring five original songs and a music video for the single “Entertaining.”
She hasn’t let up on making music since. Now a senior at Central State University, majoring in Business Management Information Systems and holding a certificate in Commercial Music Technology, Hill is a rising rapper, songwriter, poet, and audio engineer.
What sets her apart as an artist is her love for her craft. “Making music and writing makes me feel seen, heard, understood, and accepted,” she shares. This passion was transparent when she performed at a homecoming concert alongside well-known artists like Skilla Baby, Sada Baby, Dreezy, and K Stylis. It’s one of her proudest and most surreal moments.
A Balancing Act
Hill’s path has been full of challenges, but her determination remains unshaken. “It has not been a smooth road trying to develop my artistry and push it out to the world,” she reflects. As a rising artist, she often faced difficulties securing performance opportunities, with many not initially considering her for their events or adding her songs to their mixes for concerts and parties.
Additionally, she lost her mother while in college, which added emotional weight and made it even more challenging to balance grief with academic responsibilities and her artistic aspirations.
Despite these obstacles, Hill found her footing and grew from the experience. “I am most proud of the development of my confidence and penmanship,” she stated. “How I am no longer nervous when I hit the stage or how I’m able to put myself out there is a pat on the back for me because three years ago I wouldn’t even tell people I make music or I write”
She acknowledges the importance of networking and emphasizes that she learned its value while attending Central State. The HBCU has shaped her journey and stressed the significance of authenticity—principles she intends to carry into her future endeavors.
“Attending Central State has also taught me grit,” she said. “The grinding never stops even when you think you’ve made it to the top; there’s always more room for others at a table, new ideas, and more success.”
To the Beat of the Drum
Hill is committed to marching to the beat of her drum, and she encourages others to embrace their authenticity. “Even if people aren’t tuning into your artwork, don’t let it discourage you. Your artwork isn’t for people to be amused by it,” she said. “It’s for you to have an outlet and be able to create something that makes you feel safe and heard. Never stop developing, working on your art.”
Alongside her academics and making waves as a rapper and songwriter, Hill serves as the chair of the Marauder Activities Board at CSU, organizing major events such as Welcome Week, Homecoming, and Springfest.
As graduation approaches, Hill is focused on her next step: pursuing a full-time career as a musician. She is eager to continue songwriting, performing, and making a positive impact through her craft.
Follow her on social media for updates on Hill’s music and performances!