Kamry Hill: A rising star at Central State University

Among Central State University's vibrant community lies Kamry Hill, a multi-talented student whose journey in music and poetry illustrates the power of authenticity and resilience. From her early days growing up in Detroit, Michigan, to her artistic contributions on campus, Hill’s story is one of creativity, determination, and a deep connection to her faith. 

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Hill’s passion for music began in her childhood, inspired by legends like Michael Jackson. By elementary school, she was writing her own songs and performing in talent shows. Her first song, “Party Up,” marked the beginning of a lifelong journey in songwriting and self-expression. Her family nurtured this passion, gifting her instruments and encouraging her creative pursuits. 

Basketball also played a significant role in Kamry’s early years, teaching her rhythm and discipline, which later influenced her musical journey. However, it was her brother's encouragement and her exposure to studio environments that cemented her love for music. By ninth grade, she recorded her first song alongside her brother, setting the stage for her future in music. 

Central State as a catalyst 

Choosing Central State University was a family-driven decision, with her brother's wife and relatives being proud Marauders. The University provided Hill with a platform to hone her talents and connect with mentors who guided her artistic and personal growth. 

Hill’s involvement in organizations like Illmatic Expressions and mentorship from figures such as former Miss CSU queens Raven Golladay and Teeya Skipper were transformative. These relationships helped her refine her penmanship, gain confidence on stage, and find solace during challenging times, including the death of her mother during her junior year. 

Through the loss, Hill came away with several life lessons: 

“Uplift others, and don’t sell yourself short. When you’re writing or creating art – however you do it, through pictures, painting, sculpting – go all the way. Reach farther than what you can see and know that God got you through everything.” 

Artistic themes and impact 

Hill’s music and poetry resonate with themes of authenticity, resilience, and faith. Her lyrics often encourage listeners to trust in a higher power, embrace their true selves, and persevere through hardships. A standout moment was her performance at an open mic shortly after her mother’s passing, where she moved the audience with her heartfelt words. 

Her artistic contributions extend beyond music. As a leader in various campus organizations and a resident assistant, Hill uses her platform to inspire and uplift others. 

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Her speech at Central State's annual Candlelight Ceremony in 2024 exemplified her ability to connect deeply with her audience, leaving a lasting impact on freshmen and peers alike. 

“Being at an HBCU means I am grounded around people who are just like me,” she said. 

“Outside of HBCUs, it’s a different world, but here, we’re not limited by what other people think."

"The more we continue to push ourselves to go beyond imposed limitations, the more we can create and make a lasting impact.

“At an HBCU, we see beyond our skin color which fosters a stronger sense of community.”  

Balancing art and academia 

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As a senior majoring in Business Management Information Systems, Hill balances her academic responsibilities with her creative endeavors. Her coursework in music technology and audio engineering has fueled her interest in creating and producing music independently. Despite the demands of her studies and extracurriculars, Hill remains committed to her art, viewing it as both a personal outlet and a means to inspire others. 

Post-graduation, Hill aspires to become a full-time artist and audio engineer, traveling the world to share her music and connect with diverse audiences. She envisions a future where her art not only entertains but also uplifts and encourages others to embrace their authentic selves. 

Through her faith, Hill has adopted the mantra, “Worry about nothing, pray about everything,” a phrase derived from the Bible verse Philippians 4:6-7, which states "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” 

Hill's journey speaks to the transformative power of creativity and community. As she continues to grow as an artist and leader, she embodies the spirit of Central State University — resilient, inspiring, and unapologetically authentic. 

To connect with Hill, follow her on Instagram and LinkedIn and subscribe to her YouTube channel. Her music can also be streamed on Apple Music.