Following a dream can be intimidating. Moving across the country from a small town to the bright lights of Los Angeles - even more terrifying. But putting everything into something you love, not knowing if it’ll pay off may be the biggest challenge of all. Don't tell that to Vince Palmeri. The 2013 Maine-Endwell grad wouldn’t have it any other way.
“I think ten years ago, it was always this kind of dream or fantasy I had envisioned for myself, but didn’t know how to make it into a reality at the time. Deep down, I knew it was what I always wanted, and part of why I am where I am today is a product of just putting one foot in front of the other and making a conscious effort every day to move the needle on my career forward in some way, big or small,” said Palmeri.
Today, Palmeri is a growing fixture in the LA music scene, performing at popular venues across the country, from The Bowery Electric in New York City to The Viper Room in West Hollywood and everything in between. His brand-new five song EP “Lover Boy” is already gaining popularity across all major streaming platforms thanks to his eclectic blend of pop, dance and rock. Over the past few years alone, Palmeri’s emotionally charged, hi-octane music has built a fanbase, both online and across LA, thanks to dozens of his own independently produced singles and albums. For this M-E grad, it’s hard to remember a time in his life where music wasn’t at the forefront.
“Music was in my life since as early as I can remember. I was fortunate enough to grow up in a musical household. My dad was in a band. Some of my earliest memories were coming downstairs and sitting with him at the piano and singing everything from Classic Rock to Early 2000’s Pop,” said Palmeri.
From the age of five, Palmeri knew he loved singing, but he wouldn’t begin taking it seriously until close to two decades later when he finished college. It was then when he started writing and producing his own music. During his time at M-E, Palmeri spent 6th to 10th grade in band playing the French Horn, but admits he was “pretty bad.” While the classical route may not have been for this 2013 alum, he says music education is incredibly important, especially in a non-traditional sense. Palmeri is excited for future Spartans, thanks to new classes offered in the district such as Music Production, and groups such as “Rock Band Club.”
“In the year 2024, it is easier than ever to write, produce, and release music out to the world without a major music label, and I love seeing young people capitalizing on the access that they have to these things and expressing themselves artistically. I think offering music education that focuses more on the contemporary pop music landscape (songwriting, production, engineering etc.) can be extremely valuable in jump-starting a young person’s creative energy. I wish education like that was available when I was growing up, because I think it would have shown me that I did have the tools and the ability to actually pursue and make music at a younger age,” said Palmeri.
Palmeri is living proof that following your dreams can pay off it you put in the hard work. While always confident in his abilities, moving to LA was a huge risk. He credits his time at Maine-Endwell for teaching him the importance of pushing yourself to do hard things.
“I was always encouraged to shoot for the stars, whether it be academically or in sports, and that go-getter attitude is what’s allowed me to survive out here in a city like Los Angeles and pursue a music career in an industry that can be incredibly tough,” said Palmeri.
When he wasn’t playing music, Palmeri says some of his best memories were being a part of the swim team from 7th to 12th grade. We’re incredibly proud of Vince's success, and look forward to seeing him grow, both personally and professionally. Palmeri can be found on all social media platforms, from Instagram, to Facebook, to TikTok.