Student adds unique perspective to Austin music

The music underground in Austin is constantly growing and at this rate, downtown is still spinning around in circles trying to find the right mix of modern technology and melodic undertones. Sweet singer-songwriter I Am Her (aka Sophia Hernandez) delivers this combination in a category all her own. Influenced by artists such as Ani Difranco, PJ Harvey, Le Tigre, Nirvana and Nine Inch Nails, this girl brings something to the table that will make anyone want to turn up the volume.

Striking a little closer to home, the Commercial Music Management major has been living in Austin for 5 years and is in her last semester at Austin Community College. "I don't get to play too often, but I'm trying to build up more shows. I guess it's more difficult to do now that I'm getting more into [both at the same time]," Hernandez said of juggling school and music.

Although she has been creating music for many years, Hernandez previously only wrote and played for herself due to confidence problems and a fear of being on stage. "I really enjoyed playing music as a kid, but as far as playing music [for an audience], it really was a confidence thing that sort of gave me a lot of stage fright," Hernandez said.

That is until three years ago, when a last-minute chance to fill an opening slot for a friend's band finally gave Hernandez the opportunity she needed to overcome her fear. Now, the nervousness is still alive and well, but the crowd helps her along, keeping the shows interesting and keeping her anxiety in-check.

Adorning her orange semi-hollow Ibanez guitar - nicknamed 'Junior' - Hernandez said that she's a combination of a "folksy riot girl with a mixture of singer-songwriter" while on-stage, and she prides herself on having the perfect anecdotes to get the crowds going.

"I'd like to add another dynamic to my music," she said. "Get it a little more upbeat and a little more lively to use more of that electronic sound that I have."

Hernandez said she hopes to add a drummer to the I Am Her mix in the near future, in order to bring a new feel to her music and quite possibly create a fuller sound for her band. Another big part of the I Am Her universe that can't be ignored is Hernandez's sexuality and her experiences as a lesbian - much of which gets incorporated into her music. "I try and bring [being a lesbian] out into the open in a lot in my songs and my writing - that way people feel more welcome," she said. "[I try] to show the rest of the world the duality of that community."