By: Media With Drake
Kristen Merlin, the singer-songwriter who gained national attention on Season 6 of The Voice in 2014 under the mentorship of Shakira, continues to make waves in the music industry in 2025 with her heartfelt storytelling and genre-blending sound. Her favorite work to date is “Last Time Last”, which has a full music video that perfectly encapsulates the heart of her artistry: a powerful message of second-chance love. The song reflects the idea that no matter how many times life knocks you down, it’s always worth believing again. “This song is deeply personal to me, but it also feels universal,” Kristen shares. Every performance serves as a reminder of the courage it takes to open one’s heart, and she takes pride in sharing that message with fans around the world.
Over the next six months, Kristen plans to fully focus on promoting Last Time Last while continuing to create and release new music. Live shows, engaging digital content, and authentic fan interactions are all part of the strategy to build momentum. Additionally, Kristen is actively expanding her catalog for future releases and exploring opportunities for music placements in film and television. Central to this plan is ongoing growth as both a songwriter and performer, ensuring that each project remains true to her personal story while resonating deeply with listeners.
When asked about musical influences, Kristen points to P!nk as the biggest inspiration. Her fearlessness, raw honesty, and ability to cross genres without losing authenticity have profoundly shaped Kristen’s approach. “She shows that vulnerability and strength can live in the same space and that’s the balance I strive for in my own music,” she explains. This influence is evident in Kristen’s fearless blending of country, pop, and rock elements, creating a sound that feels both natural and emotionally resonant.
What separates Kristen from others in the industry is a unique combination of authenticity and versatility. She has never tried to emulate anyone else; her music reflects both the vulnerable and strong sides of her personality. By blending genres in a way that feels organic, she produces a sound that is difficult to categorize but easy for listeners to connect with. Fans don’t just hear the music; they experience it. This genuine connection and refusal to be boxed in are at the core of what makes Kristen’s artistry stand out.
The drive to build her own brand came from a desire to take full ownership of her story. Rather than waiting for outside validation, Kristen created a path that felt authentic and self-directed. Her debut album, Boomerang, released in 2015, reached #2 on Billboard’s Heatseekers chart, a milestone that affirmed her unique voice and dedication. Building a personal brand has provided the freedom to release music that resonates with her, connect directly with fans, and stay true to her identity. “My goal is to show that persistence and authenticity pay off. When you create something real, people connect with it, and that’s the foundation I’ve built my career on,” she reflects.
Looking ahead five years, Kristen envisions touring internationally and connecting with audiences across the globe. She hopes her music will continue to grow, finding new life on streaming platforms and in film and television. Beyond commercial success, she aims for her brand to symbolize staying true to oneself and embracing perseverance. Collaborative opportunities with admired artists and ongoing creative growth are also part of this vision, but the focus remains firmly on authenticity.
Through sharing her journey, Kristen hopes to inspire readers to pursue their passions despite obstacles. Her path in music is not without challenges, but it is a testament to resilience, authenticity, and belief in oneself. “If someone reading this feels like giving up on their dream, whether that’s in music, love, or life, I hope my story reminds them that it’s always worth trying again,” she says. Music has been her vehicle for turning struggles into strength, and if her story encourages even one person to keep going, it has achieved its purpose.
Kristen Merlin’s story is a reminder that success is not just about numbers or recognition, it’s about connection, authenticity, and the courage to keep creating. In a world where many voices compete to be heard, hers rises above, grounded in honesty and a relentless belief in the power of music to heal, inspire, and unite. To follow more on Kristen Merlin, check out her spotify.
