Adam Friedman learned how to play guitar on a miniature electric Fender Stratocaster from Guitar Gallery in Scottsdale, Arizona. But it was an acoustic Olympia guitar that inspired Friedman to pursue songwriting around the age of 12. Read more...

Photo: Pop singer-songwriter Adam Friedman released his debut EP “Green” this year. Though he moved to the West Coast to work as a technical assistant at a studio, he began professionally pursuing music after his song “Glorious” featured as the theme song of the film “Rock Dog.” (Miriam Bribiesca/Photo editor)

Music inspires the soul and allows listeners to feel joyful and free, and behind every piece of inspirational music lie a songwriter and a story. Throughout spring quarter, columnist Kaitlyn Peterson will sit down over tea with UCLA singer-songwriters to explore their musical goals, personal inspirations and what makes their songs so special. Read more...

Photo: Third-year anthropology student Justin Loera is working on his fourth album after making his own progressive rock music in January 2016. He released his first album “Untitled Album” last year and his most recent album “Faded Dream” in January. (Stella Huang/Daily Bruin)