INSPIRING WOMEN
HPW’s Inspiring Women series profiles remarkable Greek-American professional women whose stories of success inspire and encourage us to achieve our own career goals and aspirations.
VASSY KARAGIORGOS
Singer, Songwriter & Producer
Multi-Platinum and Gold recording artist of many talents, VASSY, knows how to individualize herself against the tide of followers. Originating from Australia with Greek heritage, VASSY’s vocal roots lie in an array of different genres. As a singer, songwriter, and producer, her music speaks for itself and her progressive popularity in dance music is massive. Conquering the DJ world with her authentic sound has lead to a worldwide No. 1 hit with David Guetta & Showtek on their track “BAD,” which is certified 7 times double platinum, as well as winning an IDMA Award for Best Featured Vocalist Performance in 2015. “BAD” has had over 600 million views on YouTube, downloaded 2 million times and streamed via Spotify over 280 million times. In 2015 she collaborated with Tiësto and KSHMR on their track, “Secrets,” hitting over 80 million Spotify plays and 130 million Youtube views. “Secrets” went straight to number 1 in 20 countries, reigned atop the Billboard Club Charts and Beatport charts, and earned an IDMA Award for Best Electro Progressive/House track in 2016. VASSY joined forces once again in 2016 with Tiësto on her #1 standalone hit single, “Nothing To Lose,” a high-energy dance-floor friendly masterpiece. Co-produced by the legendary Tiësto, this progressive house-gem is bound to fuel the urge to get up and dance. Filled with uplifting original lyrics and momentous energy, the record quickly hit No. 1 on U.S. Dance Radio, No.1 on the Billboard Dance Club charts, and vaulted into the Top 10 of the Billboard Dance/Mix show charts. The versatile artist has also ventured into indie-pop on her No. 1 Billboard Dance Club song “We Are Young,” channeling a vivacious tone that will put you in high spirits. VASSY’s effortless dexterity as both versatile singer and songwriter is undeniable.
In addition to her success in dance music, VASSY’s songs have been featured everywhere including, Target, Nickelodeon, Sketchers, Victoria’s Secret, Pepsi commercials, Grey’s Anatomy, and even Disney’s Oscar-winning film, “Frozen.”
Even with her music career taking flight, VASSY has always prioritized her philanthropic work with charity groups and civil rights organizations. She is an active equal-rights ambassador for the NOH8 campaign, a spokesperson for environmental organization Green IT, works with Studio Samuel Foundation helping girls in Ethiopia, and supports youth through Playground of Dreams. Be it through her music, volunteerism giving back to the communities, VASSY’s goal is to inspire people to fight for their dreams. Whether she’s singing, writing, or producing music, VASSY has an immensely credible portfolio to admire.
At what age did you get involved with music?
I knew from a very young age I wanted to be involved with music. I received my degree, with first class honors, and then I got involved with music.
Other than your own, what type of music do you listen to?
I listen to various musical genres including Greek, Classical, and Orchestral music.
What has been the most rewarding moment in your career?
The most rewarding moments in my career have been being named number one on US Dance radio, having three number ones on the Billboard Dance charts, having two double platinum records, and becoming a board member on the recording Academy.
What do you value most about your job? Does your career define you in any way?
I value my fans and how my music makes them feel. I’m not sure if my career defines me – I think I would be who I am regardless of my career. However, my fans motivate and inspire me, and are the reason why I keep making music.
Do you have ambitions unrelated to music or performing?
Music has always been my passion. There are other things I’d like to succeed in, but fundamentally, it all stems from music.
What are you working on now?
I’m working on my new records which will be released in 2017!
Do you have a mentor?
I don’t have a mentor but there are some awesome people in the business who have been champions for me.
Favorite city to live? Favorite city to vacation?
I fell in love with Madrid, Spain. I also love Greece in the summer, it truly is my favorite vacation destination.
What impact has your Greek heritage had on your career and professional life?
My heritage has taught me to work hard, to be a real entrepreneur and not to expect anything from anyone – my parents were like that. That is what I know and that is what I’m doing. Being Greek makes me feel proud. I cook Greek and I speak Greek. Our culture is rich and it is reflected on a daily basis in my career and in my personal life.
Are you involved with the Greek community in Australia or the U.S.? If so, how?
Yes, I have been involved in the Greek community in Australia and in Los Angeles. I love to support the community and give back. I think it is important to celebrate our culture and to bring all Greeks together so we can acknowledge and encourage each other’s success and to keep passing our traditions to future generations.
Favorite Greek dish? Favorite Greek restaurant?
My favorite Greek dish is fasolakia and fakes. My favorite Greek restaurant is Loi Estiatorio in New York City.
If you can give advice to women regarding their professional lives, what would it be?
I have a few pieces of advice. 1) believe in yourself and be relentless, 2) never give up and don’t be embarrassed to be feminine or even a tomboy – just be who you are and own it, and 3) support, encourage, and be champions for other women.
For more information, please go to http://vassymusic.com
