Fund me, KC: From poverty to center stage, singer/songwriter wants to give back

Editor’s note: Startland News is continuing its segment to highlight area entrepreneurs’ efforts to accelerate their businesses. This is an opportunity for innovators to share their stories to gain a little help from their supporters. If you or your startup is running a crowdfunding campaign, let us know by contacting news@startlandnews.com [divide]

Who are you?

My name is Crystal Rose and I’m a singer/songwriter from Kansas City, Missouri. At a young age, I was influenced by such powerhouses as Whitney Houston, Celine Dion and Christina Aguilera. I’ve since drawn much inspiration from blusey and folk centered artist like James Bay, James Vincent McMorrow and Johnnyswim.

I just started performing in venues and festivals and such this year, mostly in my hometown, but Kansas City loves art in all forms, so It’s a good thing. It’s been an amazing year! I’ve performed on 38 The Spot: Behind The Music, and at Sofar Sounds, Middle of The Map Fest, Boulevardia, RecordBar and several other places.

This is will be my first full EP. Last year, I released my single “Come Alive.” You can check it out on Spotify, iTunes and anywhere else you stream music.

What is your biggest inspiration as an artist?

This is such a large question. I think we’re all created in the image of God, and God is the ultimate creator, so I am a creator as well. And so are you. What and how we create with our lives looks different because we all have a unique makeup of personality and gifts. I think I’m inspired by hope, and my hope is God.

How much money do you hope to raise with your campaign?

$9,000

What do you plan to use the funds for?

Funds will go toward mixing, mastering, hiring musicians and producers, as well as to the nonprofit CommunityLINC.

How are you differentiating your campaign or bringing attention to it?

I’m involving my community in the process. Fifteen percent of funds raised will go to CommunityLINC, a nonprofit that is helping end homelessness in Kansas City. We’re kicking off the campaign with Community LINC and the families they impact by throwing a Fall Fun Fest. We’re using an online platform called Thunderclap to help spread the word about the campaign.

Why did you decide to partner with CommunityLINC? How did it stand out to you amongst other charities?

I decided to partner with CommunityLINC because of its mission: helping end homeless here in Kansas City. I really wanted to give back to my community somehow because I feel that it’s done so much for me. I came alive in this city. My dreams came alive in ways I never imagined. As I began researching local charities online, I found myself getting bored with many websites.

Then I saw that CommunityLINC was helping kids and families I could relate to. They included stories from lives they’ve impacted on their website and their website just looked good. It’s really that simple. I grew up in poverty and know firsthand how easy it is to operate out of survival mode and when you’re living in survival mode, you’re not dreaming. Those are the people I wanted to impact.

Is there anything quirky, fun or unusual you’re trying with your campaign?

I think the fun part is including so many other people, that can also the challenging part.

What’s some advice you have to others launching a crowdfunding campaign?

I would say to always remember the “why” behind your campaign. Every movement should have an overall mission and It’s important to make decisions based on that and not everyone’s response. But, don’t neglect strategy.

Why do you choose to stay in Kansas City?

Kansas City is where I’m at right now. I believe one day I’ll move on and perform and record in other places, as my musical journey continues. But until then, I’m going to use what I have to tell what’s in my heart. There’s plenty of talented musicians and producers here, plus I love this city.

Learn more about Crystal Rose’s story by watching her video below: