devin renee

What did Norco Music mean to you?

Norco Music gave me the freedom to discover who I am as an artist. I had struggled for so long to find my voice, and with the support of our professors and my friends, I was given the space to try, fail, and try again. It was a safe environment to grow and learn—without the pressure to be anything other than ourselves.

Favorite memory from your time there?

There are so many memories, it’s hard to choose just one. But the moments that stand out most are the opportunities Norco Music gave us—from diverse performance settings to studio time, and even the chance to create my first music video. The journey of making music is deeply personal, and the people at Norco made it even more meaningful.

What are you doing now?

My husband and I run our own creative business. We offer vocal recording, songwriting, guitar tracking, mixing and mastering, audiobook narration, and private lessons. I’m also a part-time music director at a local church. I’m still writing my own music and, with my husband’s help, recording and releasing new material.

What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced?

The biggest challenge I faced at Norco—and still wrestle with—is getting out of my own way. Like many artists, I’ve struggled with imposter syndrome and the feeling that I don’t belong. But once I started embracing who I am, those doubts began to fade, and I was able to unlock my creativity. Being vulnerable through your art isn’t easy, but it can be a powerful tool for healing—not just for yourself, but for anyone who experiences it.

Was there a moment you knew you were on the right path?

There wasn’t one defining “aha” moment, but I always felt like I was where I was meant to be. I didn’t even know this program existed when I enrolled at Norco College. A friend invited me to a music department info session, and I had no idea how life-changing that moment would be. From meeting Brady at the Norco Fair talent show to discovering all the opportunities this program offered, there were countless signs along the way affirming that I was on the right path.

What project are you most proud of?

Compass Heart was the first Norco Music album I had the honor of contributing to. My song “Clarity” was the opening track, and I can't fully express what that meant to me. For so long, I felt like I didn’t fit anywhere—but that moment showed me I did.

How do you stay inspired?

Honestly, this has been a challenge since graduating and stepping into “the real world.” Life gets busy, distractions pile up, and inspiration can be fleeting. Some days I feel incredibly creative but can’t act on it, and other days I have the time but nothing flows. What I’ve learned is not to be too hard on myself. When I’m stuck, I’ll use writing prompts, jam out to my favorite songs, or collaborate with friends. When I was at Norco, one of my favorite things was writing outside—there are so many hidden spots where an acoustic guitar and a quiet moment can spark something new.

What advice would you give current Norco Music students?

Take advantage of every opportunity this program offers. If you go all in—if you’re open to feedback, willing to take risks, and ready to put in the work—you’ll gain so much. The professors are full of knowledge, your peers bring unique perspectives, and the community is incredibly supportive. Norco Music is what it is today because of the students who came before you—and it will continue to grow through your ideas, your ambition, and your passion.