A CSUN alumnus launched her first single, “No One But You,” June 22 at Nacional in Hollywood to a large crowd of fans.
Shakeh Avanessian attended CSUN 2003-2005 and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Cinema and Television Arts.
The event started at 9 p.m. and attracted approximately 400 people that came to support Avanessian and the record label, Boiler House.
“Everything was a success,” Avanessian said. “My expectations were met and then some.”
Several audience members expressed similar sentiments.
“I’m proud, but I’m not surprised,” said Artin Hovsepian, Avanessian’s friend. “She works hard and she finally found something she loves. The future is bright.”
Remy Mazmanian, also known as DJ Rem, Avanessian and Crimzon performed and moved the crowd with musical mixes, such as “The Beginning,” “Exhilaration,” “Trainwreck” and “Tainted Love,” a Boiler House remake. Mazmanian also attended CSUN.
“I live two separate lives,” Mazmanian said. “I am a producer and a DJ.”
Boiler House records was established in 2003 by Mazmanian. It is now a collaboration of Avanessian and Mazmanian. Both co-produce their tracks and write together.
“She is more than just a singer,” Mazmanian said. “She’s my right-hand man.”
Avanessian said she has many goals she plans to pursue in the near future.
“At first I wanted to do it all in this industry and I mean everything from producing films or acting in them, from writing soundtracks of an epic film to singing in my own written tracks,” Avanessian said.
She said her experience at CSUN impacted her life.
“I met a lot of wonderful people that were completely new to my life (and) those people eventually became one of my close friends,” Avanessian said. “My professors in my major were truly inspiring with the entertainment business in all aspects, whether it’s behind the camera or in front.”
Avanessian and Mazmanian have several plans for the future of their collaboration.
“Avanessian is imageless because image does harm,” Mazmanian said. “We still got more dreaming to do.”
Avanessian said she is eager to showcase her talent.
“After this, it’s more focused on me and not just the production aspects of tonight,” she said. “I have a lot of songs on hold. I can’t wait to do what I love.”
Avanessian and Mazmanian plan to work on a duo called “Tracking Device.”
“We will collaborate with other artists,” Mazmanian said. “I would definitely combine rock.”
He has experimented with classical background, piano and drums.
“I love any kind of drums,” Mazmanian said.
The only type of music he is not open to collaborating with is Hip-Hop.
“I’m not a man of many words, but hip-hop is,” Mazmanian said. “I’m not into words, I’m into music.”
As partners, Avanessian and Mazmanian goals are similar and simple.
“We’re just out to have a good time,” Mazmanian said.