Lily Sturges, a first-year music industry student at UCLA, has launched her latest single, “Want You Back,” which showcases her commitment to promoting women in music production. The Los Angeles native has been inspired by her peers and the vibrant music community at UCLA, leading her to take her music career more seriously. The single, which won an award in the instrumentalist category at the 2024 SoCal Beat Battle, was officially released this year after Sturges signed with Cherry Pop Records, a student-run label, last summer. She revisited the track, enhancing the instrumentals and adding vocals, marking her first release since starting her studies.
Sturges’ musical journey has been shaped by her background in art and music, cultivated through her Waldorf education. Her early experiences with guitar ignited her passion for rock music and led her to form a band in high school. After experimenting with various genres, including R&B and electronic dance music, she has settled into creating tracks that encourage listeners to dance. “Want You Back” is notable for being her first production using Ableton software, and Sturges continues to explore her sound while drawing inspiration from artists like Bladee, Charli XCX, and 2hollis.
Her peers have recognized her unique approach and drive within the industry. Fellow student Julia Freed, who plans to manage Sturges’s career, highlighted the excitement and energy that Sturges brings to her music. Leilene Hernandez, another first-year student, praised Sturges for her collaborative spirit and commitment to uplifting fellow female artists, emphasizing that Sturges fosters a supportive environment rather than one of competition.
Sturges has also benefited from her coursework and internship opportunities at UCLA, which have solidified her desire to work in music. She values the collaborative efforts with other music industry students, believing they represent the future of the industry. The music video for “Want You Back” was released on February 18, and Sturges is set to release her debut album in May. With aspirations to headline major venues and collaborate with prominent artists, she remains focused on advocating for women in music production, aiming to inspire others by demonstrating that women can excel in all facets of the industry.