Amitis is an international recording artist and popstar best known for her music internationally. Amitis was born in Mashad, Iran and later moved to Tehran to attend college. She moved to the United States in 2002.

upfrontNY: You started singing at the age of 3, when did you know this is what you wanted to do?

Amitis: I always had a certain passion for singing and performing. Probably started at 4-5, that I knew this would be my happiness.

upfrontNY: You play several instruments, piano, guitar, and violin. Is there one instrument you are most passionate about?

Amitis: I enjoy playing instruments and feel that a true music lover tries to integrate their soul in their music notes. Every note is an emotion that adds up to a story told. I enjoy playing and composing on the piano most. I feel most comfortable sitting and composing.

upfrontNY: What are your musical influences or music experiences you had while growing up and living in Iran?

Amitis: My life consisted of music, whether it was playing it or listening to it. I was influenced by Legends like Michael Jackson, Madonna, Jay Z, Beyoncé, Dr. Dre and of course my friend Snoop Dogg.  I have learned and been inspired by all.

upfrontNY: What has life been like since moving to the US – Atlanta, Georgia in 2005?  How has your music influences changed through this moving transition?

Amitis: Life has been great. Transitioning here and having this amazing broad view and freedom to practice religion, music and speech has made me more stronger. I was able to actually do what I love, without hiding from the public. It took a while for me to finally adjust to that and feel comfortable with myself and express myself through my music. I changed and grew with this journey. Every day I learn and feel more influenced by so many talents in this industry. I love to learn daily in life, and I feel change is necessary in Life, or you fall behind. This is why I chose to cross over to the international music industry and sing in English.

upfrontNY: How has your music evolved and changed throughout your career?

Amitis: Every step has taught me to evolve. My experience in the persian music industry made me tough and realize that I need this transition to cross over and sing in english. I am happy to have had the opportunity to experience both journeys. I can say proudly that I love singing in english and hip hip and pop are my biggest influences of genre at this time.

upfrontNY: Can you tell us about your song “King” and what it was like working with Snoop Dogg?

Amitis: King was a project that came to mind while figuring out my cross over album. I always was a huge fan of Snoop Dogg and once I got know him personally, I wanted nothing more than to collaborate in a song with him. He is a very humble person and a genius at what he does. I enjoyed this project a lot, because we had a great time making the song and video. His talents are never ending. I am so happy to have chosen him on my first cross over project.

upfrontNY:What other artists / genres are you interested in working with / exploring in the future?

Amitis:  I would like to stay consistent with pop and hip hop, but open to any new ideas that come along. I have some ideas to maybe start some projects with some new collaborations with some great artists. I have been reviewing, and not yet decided how to proceed. I want to keep it a surprise for now, but coming soon.

upfrontNY: What are you currently working on?

Amitis: Currently I am working on my next cross over projects and production. I also just recently moved to Beverly Hills a year ago for my career, so I am just enjoying life and working on my next songs. I have found my Zen here.

Head here to learn more Amitis and her music.