In this heartfelt keynote address from Berklee Onsite 2025, Kamilah Marshall shares her journey of resilience, self-discovery, and saying “yes” to the unexpected. She begins with a childhood story about overcoming stage fright during a talent show—a moment that planted seeds of perseverance and taught her the importance of choosing her own path. Marshall also explores how setbacks, like losing a coveted solo as a young performer, fueled her determination and led to a career spanning Broadway, Bette Midler tours, and more than a decade touring the world with Taylor Swift. While performing on the Eras Tour, she even completed her degree with Berklee Online, embodying her message that we can always grow and evolve.
“Say yes to showing up. It’s not too late. It’s never too late,” she tells the audience. “It’s not about being perfect. It’s just about being you.” Whether you’re launching your career or reinventing yourself, her keynote offers motivation and insight for artists at every stage.
ABOUT KAMILAH MARSHALL:
Kamilah Marshall has been seen and heard supporting 14-time Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Taylor Swift on her Red, 1989, and Reputation world tours and, most recently, her record-breaking Eras Tour. Kamilah was one of Bette Midler’s backup singers and dancers on the Kiss My Brass world tour and the Showgirl Must Go On residency at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas. Her Broadway credits include roles in “Rent,” Disney’s “The Lion King,” and the original cast of “Hairspray.” Kamilah reprised her featured role as a Dynamite in “Hairspray Live” on NBC with Jennifer Hudson and Ariana Grande. Additionally, she opened for the Rolling Stones’ stadium tour with the Southern rock band, Ghost Hounds.
Kamilah is a talented singer-songwriter, known for crafting songs for herself and others. Her latest release, “Canyon,” is available on Spotify and Apple Music. Recently, she co-wrote and was featured on the hit single “Both Sides” alongside Forest Blakk, released by Atlantic Records. Kamilah also contributed to Vintage Trouble’s latest track, “Strike Your Light,” from their sophomore album 1 Hopeful Rd., which soared to No. 1 on the Japanese rock charts and climbed rapidly on the UK charts. In addition to her recent successes, Kamilah’s debut album, “Gypsy Moonshine,” is also available on streaming platforms.
Learn more about Berklee Onsite: https://berkonl.in/4kG07hK
About Berklee Online:
Founded in 2002, Berklee Online is the premier innovator and largest provider of worldwide music education, offering the renowned curriculum of Berklee College of Music at a fraction of the cost through award-winning programming and instruction. Contact an Academic Advisor today:
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Kamilah Marshall | Taylor Swift | Better Midler | Rolling Stones | Berklee Onsite | Hairspray | Jennifer Hudson | Ariana Grande | Ghost Hounds