Rising Stars: Meet Lucila Villarreal of PHOENIX

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lucila Villarreal.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
The path to embracing my identity as a ‘Creative’ began long before I realized it was embedded in my core. Growing up in a conservative, religious household, I carried the weight of traditional expectations and often struggled to find my voice. It wasn’t until I experienced a profound period of self-healing that I was able to embrace my true passions and fully acknowledge my identity as nonbinary and queer, stepping into the person I always knew I was meant to be. Claiming this identity in a world that doesn’t always understand or accept difference was, and remains, one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. Yet, it shaped me into someone who cherishes authenticity and understands the courage it takes to pursue one’s true calling.

Music was always my safe space, providing solace and expression when words fell short. Yet, like many, I initially chose the conventional path of a 9 to 5 job, growing up in the smaller, more rural parts of Arizona such as Toltec and Casa Grande, feeling the constant pressure of economic instability, pursuing a creative degree was not an option for me. My fascination with science initially guided me to pursue a degree in Medical Laboratory Sciences, which opened the door to a stable career in some of Phoenix’s most reputable hospitals. While my degree provided me with security and a deep understanding of the complexities of the human body, it wasn’t until I reflected on my choices afterward that I realized the structured, conventional path I had entered, lacked something crucial—fulfillment.

It wasn’t until I began to explore the depths of my creativity that I realized it was more than just a hobby or a passing interest. It was an integral part of who I am—a source of energy and purpose that I could no longer ignore. This realization inspired me to take a leap of faith, leaving the predictable and secure path behind to fully embrace my creative side and blend my analytical mindset with artistic expression, allowing not only creativity but also purpose to shape and define my identity.

Today, I’m the proud CEO of Officially ME LLC, a Phoenix-based production company that not only nurtures my music but supports other artists in recording, producing, and distributing their projects. I am also actively performing in venues, with my most recent show being, November 1st held at Buds Glass Shop in downtown Phoenix during Roosevelt Row’s renowned First Friday. Today I am also working on various music projects with album set to release sometime next year, album featuring both “TO: Myself” and most recent project release “Pillow Queen.” I am also collaborating with local coffee shops to offer intimate acoustic sets and partnering with bars to deliver unique, thrilling performances. Additionally, I am coordinating with sponsored locations to host open mic nights around the Phoenix area. Today, my company is a testament to the power of following your truth and allowing your passion to guide you. I am proud to say I am exactly where I want to be.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road has been far from smooth, filled with trials that tested both my personal and professional resolve. One of the pivotal moments in my journey was creating my first project, TO: Myself. This body of work is deeply meaningful as it embodies self-reflection and serves as a reminder to love oneself through life’s ups and downs. As I stepped into adulthood, I recognized that many of the issues I faced were self-inflicted—whether through fear, hesitation, or self-critique. But with that realization came peace: understanding that if I could put myself into difficult situations, I could also guide myself out of them.

Other challenges included navigating an industry where financial constraints and the search for genuine collaborators could be daunting. Establishing my voice and my space in a world that often doesn’t understand or support nonbinary and queer identities required perseverance. Yet, every challenge reinforced my belief in the importance of self-expression, community, and advocating for change.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Officially ME LLC allows me to specialize in creating, producing, and distributing musical projects that resonate deeply, while also managing the chaos that comes with the creative process. As a recording and performing artist, I’m known for my powerful, soulful vocals and honest storytelling, drawing inspiration from icons like Lady Gaga to legends such as B.B. King. My performances are immersive experiences designed to connect with audiences, inspire them, and make them feel seen. I collaborate with a diverse range of creatives—photographers, videographers, songwriters, and musicians—to ensure that each project tells an authentic and captivating story.

What sets me apart is my unwavering commitment to championing self-expression and fostering community. My work goes beyond just producing music; it’s about crafting shared moments that celebrate individuality and the power of connection.

What I’m most proud of is seeing how my journey has come full circle. I’ve built a company that not only supports my vision but uplifts the dreams of others in the industry. It’s a testament to the idea that embracing who you truly are can lead to the creation of something impactful and meaningful.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
To those reading this: I want you to know that your journey is valid, no matter how unconventional or challenging it may seem. My path to being an artist and CEO was full of twists and turns, but each step brought me closer to understanding that the most vital thing you can do is be yourself and create unapologetically. If you want to experience music that’s deeply rooted in passion and authenticity, I invite you to connect with me, whether it’s through my performances, social media, my website, or collaborating on a project. Let’s inspire each other to create, love ourselves a bit more, and build communities that thrive on creativity.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.lucilavillarrealofficial.com
• Instagram: chttp://www.instagram.com/lucilavillarreal.official/
• Linkedin: other: www.tiktok.com/@ohhhlucila
• Youtube: www.youtube.com/@ohhhlucila
• Other: https: linktr.ee/lucilavillarreal

Image Credits
R2 Digital Images, Dyesaphotography, Herbieduahphotography.