KQED's Forum Forum from the Archives: Star On the Rise: August Lee Stevens Performs Live In Studio
Jul 2, 2025
August Lee Stevens, a Bay Area musician and rising star, shares her journey from classical piano to releasing her debut album, "Better Places." She reflects on the emotional depth of her music and the influence of her hometown of Hercules. In captivating live performances, she combines indie soul with classical roots, touching on themes of family and personal growth. Joined by fellow vocalists, they explore songwriting's emotional resonance and the balance of change and stability in both life and art.
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August's East Bay Roots
- August Lee Stevens grew up in Hercules, California, near Pinole and San Pablo Bay.
- It's known locally as the stop for gas when heading to Tahoe, highlighting her East Bay roots.
Mixed Feelings on Social Media
- August finds social media challenging due to self-critical feelings when creating content.
- Despite this, she values Instagram for connecting with the music community and growing her network.
Switching from Piano to Vocals
- August switched from classical piano to vocals in her senior year at Oakland School for the Arts.
- Surrounded by extroverts, she learned to collaborate and found her voice beyond the piano.