SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Joonah Stars, an emerging artist based in Sacramento, is stepping into the music scene with a story shaped by hardship, reflection, and resilience.
Originally from Hanford, California, Stars has spent the past decade building a new life in Sacramento after serving 10 years in state prison. His music draws directly from those experiences, offering what he describes as “the voice of pain people are looking for.”
“I’ve lived it,” Stars said. “Everything I talk about comes from real situations. I think people connect with honesty.”
Raised in a household with three sisters, two brothers, and both parents, Stars said family dynamics during his childhood and early adulthood led to distance from most of his relatives. He remains in contact with one sister.
Stars entered the music industry after encouragement from a close friend who had already found success. That push, he said, helped him take his first steps as an artist.
“He believed I had what it takes before I did,” Stars said. “So I went for it.”
While still early in his career, Stars identifies a major personal milestone as completing parole and probation. He said that moment marked a turning point, allowing him to fully focus on music.
His current challenge is releasing music consistently. Stars said he often overthinks and holds onto songs rather than putting them out.
“I know the music is good,” he said. “I just need to stop sitting on it and let people hear it.”
For now, Stars is focused on building his presence on Spotify and gaining listeners. Rather than working toward a full album, he is releasing singles as they are completed.
One upcoming track, “Exhstacy,” is expected to be a key release, though no official date has been announced.
Looking ahead, Stars said he hopes to perform in arenas within the next five years, though he remains focused on steady progress.
“I’m just trying to get heard,” he said.