A teenage boy once told Lorelei Carlson that her music was too girly. At that moment, young Carlson had an epiphany: Although many women listen to male artists, a lot of men don’t listen to female vocalists. Read more...

Photo: Fourth-year gender studies student Lorelei Carlson recorded her first demo track, “Now That I Realize the Truth,” in a studio at age 12. After moving to Los Angeles, she continued to make music and wrote the song “Low Life,” marking the start of her journey in California. (Jennifer Hu/Daily Bruin staff)

Music inspires the soul and allows listeners to feel joyful and free, and behind every piece of inspirational music lies a songwriter and a story. Throughout spring quarter, columnist Kaitlyn Peterson will sit down over tea with UCLA singer-songwriters to explore their musical goals, personal inspirations and what makes their songs so special. Read more...

Photo: Josephine Tehrani, a fourth-year communication studies student makes dark pop music. Her upcoming album, “Love Trap” will release in the summer. (Hannah Burnett/Daily Bruin)