Hey folks. Thank you for visiting our website! My name is Maiku (April) Vang and I am the newest edition to Paradise. I love music and I love being part of the band. I was introduced to them by my sister who worked at the radio station about a year and a half ago. I auditioned for them and things happened from there. But allow me to tell you a little about myself.
I currently reside in Fresno, California. But prior to that I spent most of my adolescent years in Green Bay, Wisconsin (about 6 years). So I have spent my life in both California and Wisconsin. I love both places, but I’d have to say I love a California just a little bit more, which is why I decided to further my education here. I have family in both states, which always gives me an excuse to travel. Aside from my passion for music, I love traveling and I have an enormous love for the arts and culture. That is pretty much the basics of my life. I cannot imagine my life without art and music. They mean as much to me as food and water.
I’ve been surrounded by music since I was a kid. I grew up listening to 80s music (which I love) with my older brothers and sisters, and over the years have acquired my own personal taste. I love listening to all kinds of music. From classical to rock music, to world music (I like Tibetan and Middle Eastern), the list can go on forever. I also love painting, photography, fashion, and I’m trying to learn guitar. Right now I am studying Fashion Merchandising at Fresno State. But what I’d really like to do is to break the boundaries for Hmong people. I believe that we have progressed a long way and we can still go further. I would encourage, women and girls especially, to get out there and pursue your goals. Be seen and heard so that one day we won’t be just “the Hmong people in the Vietnam War.” We will be acknowledged and unforgotten.
And while I am writing this, I want to thank Paradise for taking a chance on me and giving me this opportunity. I feel extremely lucky to be working with such great musicians and artists. I have learned so much from all of you. And thank you for being so helpful and allowing me to be part of the band. You guys are awesome.
