Erina McLaren is a singer-songwriter from Tacoma, Washington, whose music beautifully merges Americana, soulful country, and folk influences with deeply personal and introspective storytelling. Her songs explore themes of self-discovery, love, loss, and personal growth, offering a raw and authentic glimpse into her life journey. With a voice that exudes both strength and vulnerability, Erina's sound is defined by lush, atmospheric production, heartfelt melodies, and compelling rhythms that give her narratives emotional depth.
Drawing inspiration from a wide range of genres— folk, indie, country, and soul-Erina has created a sound that feels timeless yet fresh, capturing a sense of honesty and emotional resonance that connects with listeners on a personal level. Recently signed to Young Outlaw Music—a label with strong ties to Virgin Music and Universal Music Group-Erina is poised to make a major impact on the music scene.
Describe the moment you knew that you wanted to pursue music:
When I sang my first vocal solo on stage as a freshman in high school.
How does your heritage impact your art?
A lot of my songwriting stems from my personal experiences. My Korean family were a huge part of my life growing up and the Korean culture was definitely more dominant in my life. My grandmother and her sisters were always singing and listening to many Korean gospel artist. I would say my singing style was inspired by that.
What moment are you most proud of in your music journey so far?
I am most proud of my most recent single, Oh My Love. It is a song that is very special to me and it was my first song released with my label, Young Outlaw Music. It has been nominated for local awards and recently won a national songwriting competition.
Your next music goal:
Recording more music and going on a west coast tour.
If you could collaborate with anyone, who and why?
I would love to collaborate with Joy Oladokun. She is an incredible songwriter and I love her style! I think we could make an awesome song together!!
Your favourite song/lyrics:
“ Love’s too big for a love song
If I tried to sum it up I know I'd get it wrong
Sometimes if it don't sound right
I apologize, I just said it 'cause it rhymed
Four chords, three minutes, you never fit in it
So I just take you line by line”
- “Line by Line” by JP Saxe & Maren Morris
3 songs you're listening to right now:
Save Me - Noah Kahan
Carry it Well - Sam Fischer
That’s So True - Gracie Abrams
Your community shout out:
Rocky Sandoval (@rockysandovalworld) is a Tacoma artist who has been a game changer for the Tacoma/Seattle music scene. He has had an incredible career and has been able to tour with some amazing artists while still supporting us musicians in Tacoma wholeheartedly.
Anything else you'd like to share:
I have a new release coming out called “Thunder In the Clouds” with Kurt Lindsay being released with @youngoutlawmusic on November 25th on all music streaming platforms!!
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CHAMPIONING ASIAN HERITAGE IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY
We champion those with heritage from across West to East Asian regions in the music industry across all genres, with a focus on pushing forward visibility for the community in the wider music scene. We aim to shatter stereotypes and help build bridge between genres, languages and sub regions – evolving the definition of what being an Asian in music entails. Asian Tones also run frequent live music showcases in the UK.
Showcasing talent across our community from east to west. Join us in discovering your new favourites and spotlighting our community in the music world.
