“There is such an advantage to self-releasing. If you can do it yourself, it's the best way to go. In Europe and the rest of world outside the U.S., I have licensed my music to labels. But it's amazing because I still own all the masters. I didn't have to give up any of those rights. I have 100 percent creative control.”

American violinist and songwriter

Lindsey Stirling is an American violinist and songwriter known for choreographed violin performances. She rose to wider attention through live shows and music videos on her official YouTube channel, which she created in 2007. Her work blends playing and movement, with performances designed as visual as well as musical pieces. The channel made her style especially visible online, and her public identity is closely tied to that mix of violin performance, choreography, and original songwriting.