CRYSTAL LEE

singer

singer

BIOGRAPHY

Crystal Lee is a passionate music educator, cultural advocate, and co-director of the first known Hmong-interest a cappella group. Born with a deep appreciation for the transformative power of music, she has dedicated her career to creating more inclusive musical spaces that uplift marginalized voices and promote Hmong language and culture. Through her leadership, Crystal has worked to ensure that music is not only a form of creative expression, but also a tool for empowerment and cultural preservation.

Crystal’s mission is grounded in equity and access—ensuring that all individuals, regardless of background or socio-economic status, have the opportunity to engage meaningfully with music. Her work with the a cappella group—founded in 2014 with her sister under the support of the Center for Hmong Arts & Talent—has created new pathways for audiences to connect with Hmong identity in both traditional and contemporary forms. She finds joy and inspiration in witnessing audience reactions during live performances, especially when listeners experience a cappella music for the first time. These moments, she says, are not only magical but affirm her belief that music has the capacity to unite, uplift, and heal.

As an artist and educator, Crystal believes in the importance of having the tools and confidence to express oneself creatively. She has seen firsthand how music and the arts can shift mindsets, heal communities, and inspire social change. Her creative mission is to serve as a source of support and hope for others seeking to make a difference through artistic practice.

In addition to her musical endeavors, Crystal is currently expanding her leadership as a personal care provider and student in peer support and recovery coaching. She sees the intersection of creativity and care as central to her work—whether in the classroom, on stage, or in community spaces. Her long-term goal is to continue building platforms that elevate unheard voices and celebrate cultural narratives through music and performance.

Like many community-based artists, Crystal’s journey has not been without obstacles. While funding remains a challenge, she identifies community engagement and support as one of the most persistent hurdles. Establishing recognition and opportunity in a new place—having moved to Minnesota shortly before launching the group—has required persistence, outreach, and resilience. Despite these challenges, Crystal remains committed to growing the group’s visibility and refining its infrastructure, including developing stronger business and communications strategies.

Looking forward, Crystal hopes to secure more training and mentorship opportunities in areas such as marketing, technology, and strategic planning—tools she believes are essential for her group’s long-term sustainability. Her vision is to amplify the voices of her members and share their artistry across the Twin Cities and beyond.

links