Soleil River Nation Talks Music, Acting, Miami, and Dreaming Big

I'm honored to have interviewed Soleil River Nation for Dia'ani TV’s S.A.M Series. We give you her story. You'll be exploring Soleil’s journey in music, acting, representation, ocean conservation, and her single “Miami on My Tongue” for Elevate Miami’s Elevated Tracks 305.

June 11, 2026 | Miami | Samantha Ann for Dia'ani TV’s S.A.M Series

I had the pleasure of interviewing Soleil River Nation for my S.A.M Series here at Dia'ani TV, and what stood out immediately was her clarity, creativity, and heart. Soleil is a young artist with a big voice, a thoughtful perspective, and a deep connection to both performance and purpose.

In our conversation, Soleil opened up about her early start in acting, her love for music, the challenges of balancing school with a growing creative career, and the importance of representation. She also shared the story behind her single “Miami on My Tongue,” which is currently competing in Elevate Miami’s Elevated Tracks 305 music competition.

Many thanks to Soleil for taking the time to share her journey with me. I truly hope this interview reflects the passion, honesty, and imagination she brings to everything she does.

Ok, let's go!

Your creative journey started early. Do you remember the first moment when music or acting really felt like something you were meant to do?

I first got interested in art in general at a very young age. I was always surrounded by artistic people and had the luck of getting to see others perform. My first ever paid job was when I was 4–5 years old, where I did an advertisement for Hasbro. I was genuinely having a good time, so technically, I started off as an actor. But I was constantly singing my entire life, as I grew up with a mother who, to me, had the voice of an angel.

I loved creating songs before I even knew what they meant, but I constantly learned new musical elements throughout my life—starting with a love for karaoke, then playing the piano to understand the technicalities of music, and playing the trumpet to improve my breath control. Ultimately, I learned that my love was simply for entertaining and performing—in other words, I was a theatre kid!

I remember my first ever role, where I was Katie Nana at only 5 years old in my school play. I memorized everybody’s lines—I still remember mine and my exact words: “I wouldn’t stay here for another moment unless you give me all the jewelry in the Vatican.” In the words of five-year-old Soleil.

You are building both a music and acting path at a young age. What has been the hardest part of chasing those dreams while still growing up?

The biggest challenge of balancing a music career with acting projects would have to be schooling. I was always a social butterfly who needed human interaction with kids my age. I also loved learning and adored English, arts, and science in school, where I thrived on structure and security. But there were times when I’d be getting picked up early, barely making it to jobs, or skipping school—my mom would claim I was at a dentist appointment. That’s when I knew things needed to change.

When middle school came around—which, in case you didn’t know, is one of the most awkward points in everyone’s life, where kids are judgy about the smallest things, whether it’s internal or everyone’s truly eyeing you down—I decided to homeschool, travel, and focus on my career. But it still didn’t feel right. I felt lonely, unmotivated, and all over the place. Even as a child with self-control and self-direction, I still couldn’t quite place the feeling.

Every artist has someone who helps shape their path. Who has inspired you the most, both creatively and personally?

There are numerous artists who guided me down my career path, but the only woman I feel is appropriate to mention is my mother. My mom has sacrificed so much for me to live my dream—from giving me every opportunity I know of to being my mom when I need her. She constantly shows up, always supports me, and always—and I mean always—keeps my genuine human feelings involved while teaching me to be mannerful and how to emotionally understand people. I truly owe everything to her.

And my father, who always excitedly brought me home to new equipment, printed scripts, and research for days while always funding my ideas and supporting me—and giving me the love I always need.

When people hear your music or watch you perform, what do you hope stays with them afterward?

I hope every fan who has either seen me or is familiar with my work comes away with more knowledge than they came in with—whether it’s logistics about statistics in ocean conservation or understanding who they are becoming as people through my art. But most importantly, I want everyone to feel seen and understood in a society that is always on, always busy, and always creating new insecurities and “needs.”

Soleil River Nation reflects on her path as a young artist in Dia'ani TV’s S.A.M Series, sharing how music, acting, family, and purpose continue to shape her voice.

You’ve been creating new music, including “Miami on My Tongue.” What recent project are you especially proud of right now?

I recently wrote two new separate songs—one being “Underestimated” and the other called “Miami on My Tongue.” The latter is actually up for a competition called Elevate Miami, and here’s why:

My song “Miami on My Tongue” is competing to become Miami’s new anthem. To me, an anthem is something that unifies people and connects all communities through musical elements and love for our beautiful town, Miami. I’ve dedicated time to creating this song and have had so much fun during the journey.

My other song, “Underestimated,” has lyrics I wish I’d heard when I needed them most. It goes:

“I know that I can be anything that I wanna be, But when will you see me for me?And like a weed, I grow without your love and care. And like a breeze, I’m such a wonderful delight, But I’m just passing by in the meantime. And like a pencil, I write all your dreams and all your thoughts, But in the end, I’m just a wooden block—I’m underestimated.”

This song speaks about how, in this society, people will never fully appreciate you in your entirety. So learn to love yourself when no one else will.

You’ve already had some powerful experiences through your work. What moment has meant the most to you so far?

I’ve been so lucky to have experienced numerous amazing people and places, such as the United Nations, audition rooms for Broadway, and voicing my passion for ocean conservation at the Explorers Club. One of my most memorable moments, however, was when I got called up to shoot a PSA in Crystal River. There, I got to narrate, act, and speak on a topic that means so much to me.

During my time in Crystal River, I shared a truly special moment with a manatee, and it reinforced the meaningfulness of protecting what matters most. I’ve always wanted to be a musician and actor, dedicating time to creating songs and auditioning. But we all live on Earth, so no matter our occupation or dream, we all have to protect it. If we don’t have the nature that nurtures our everyday lives, then we truly have nothing.

Soleil River Nation brings warmth, honesty, and imagination to her Dia'ani TV S.A.M Series interview, where she shares her dreams, creative roots, and love for storytelling.

Representation can be deeply powerful. Is there an artist or actor you dream of collaborating with, and what makes that person special to you?

There are so many amazing artists who inspire me every day, such as Billie Eilish, Ariana Grande, Jenna Ortega, and so many more. But as a Filipina American growing up in Miami, I never truly found representation of girls who’d made it and looked like me. Then I found Olivia Rodrigo.

With lyrics that felt like she ripped a page out of my diary and turned it into a gut-wrenching, beautiful song, she made me feel seen—as if I’d known her forever. And that incredible woman is Olivia Rodrigo, who is also Filipina American.

One of her songs that truly makes me feel like it was written about me is Ballad of a Homeschooled Girl. She speaks about her experience being homeschooled, something I did for a year to focus on my career. That was one of the most confusing times of my life. I was supposed to be ahead, with free time to grow, but I constantly felt unmotivated and isolated. No one understood why I chose to homeschool and travel. When I went back to school, kids would stare and ask, Why?

I always felt I missed out on social milestones and never quite fit in—never just right. My favorite lyrics of hers are:

“Each time I step outside, it’s social suicide.”

Looking ahead, what kind of career do you dream of building, and do you see music, acting, or both leading the way?

I see myself starting with Disney acting, where I can develop my style and surround myself with creative minds and talented people who have connections. I believe music is a language that Disney understands and speaks.

Further down the line, I’d love to tour with my original songs. So far, I’ve written and released five, but I hope to one day make a well-known song that resonates with girls like me.

I also hope to turn my acting career into a singing career, similar to Olivia Rodrigo, Sabrina Carpenter, or Zendaya. Afterward, I’d love to blend my singing career with ocean conservation and meaningful topics, such as equality and the awkwardness of this period in a young girl’s life. Then, I’d like to take on more emotional acting roles, possibly even on Broadway.

A lot of young people are afraid to try because they don’t want to be judged. What advice would you give teens who want to pursue music, acting, or any creative dream?

At this point in my life, most of my peers think trying is “cringy.” But what I’d say to that is: If everyone likes you, you’re doing something wrong.

It’s the people who step out of their shells, decide to be unique, and try to succeed—not the ones who are terrified of failing.

I’m often asked how I knew I could do what I do. In the words of Lightning McQueen: “I just never thought I couldn’t.” And that’s the mindset you need to carry your entire life.

Before we close, what message do you want to leave with your fans, followers, and everyone supporting your journey?

People spend the majority of their lives figuring out why they’re here and what their purpose is. The honest truth is that there are many theories and answers, but at the end of the day, it doesn’t matter why or how. What matters is that you enjoy your time and create a better future for the next generation to come by making an impact—any amount of impact. And part of making an impact is being kind.

You constantly take characteristics from the people you meet, even without realizing it. So surround yourself with positive people, meet new ones, and always be kind. You’ll never know what you’ll learn.

Dream big and love life!

As I wrapped my conversation with Soleil, I was reminded that young artists often carry some of the clearest visions. Soleil speaks with the honesty of someone still discovering the world, but also with the purpose of someone determined to leave it better than she found it.

Through her music, acting, advocacy, and storytelling, Soleil is truly learning how to turn her voice into impact. She is the dream. Her single “Miami on My Tongue” reflects that same spirit... bright, thoughtful, rooted in place, and full of heart.

Many thanks to Soleil for sharing her journey with me for Dia'ani TV’s S.A.M Series. Her message is simple but powerful... dream big, be kind, protect what matters, and never be afraid to try.

Public voting is part of the final selection process. Supporters are encouraged to listen, vote, comment, share, and help bring “Miami on My Tongue” from Miami Beach to the world.

Voting Information

Artist: Soleil River Nation

Song: “Miami on My Tongue”

Vote: Comment Artist #4 on the official Elevate Miami voting post

Follow: @soleilrivernation

Competition Updates: @elevatemiamitogether

Key Dates

Song Release: July 3, 2026 (pre-save link) https://onerpm.link/238173491045 

Scheduled Performance: July 4, 2026 — Miami Beach

Competition: Elevated Tracks 305 / Elevate Miami Official Miami Anthem Search

-Share the link with friends, family, and everyone who believes in supporting young Miami talent.

Media Contact

Soleil River Nation Team

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: @soleilrivernation

Dia'ani TV | Stream. Enjoy. Repeat.

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