" I was always singing but didn’t plan on pursuing it seriously. When I got to New York City when I was 18, I started playing in clubs in Brooklyn – I have good friends and devoted fans on the underground scene, but we were playing for each other at that point – and that was it. "
- Lana Del Rey

In the given statement, Lana Del Rey reflects on her journey as a singer. She explains that although she had always been singing throughout her life, it wasn't until she arrived in New York City at the age of eighteen that she started performing seriously in clubs around Brooklyn. During this early phase of her career, her performances were intimate and primarily catered to friends and loyal fans who supported her within the underground music scene.

The quote delves deeper into themes of discovery and the gradual realization of one's potential. Del Rey suggests a sense of serendipity mixed with personal growth as she found herself in an environment where singing became more than just a hobby but a way to connect with others on a meaningful level. Her words hint at the importance of community support, suggesting that even though her early audiences were small and close-knit, they provided the encouragement needed for her to continue developing her craft. This period likely played a crucial role in shaping her artistic identity before she achieved broader recognition.

Lana Del Rey is an American singer-songwriter known for her distinctive vocal style and lyrical themes that often reflect on Americana nostalgia and melancholic introspection. Born Elizabeth Woolridge Grant, she adopted the stage name Lana Del Rey to create a persona that would resonate with her artistic vision, which involves storytelling through music about various facets of contemporary life in America. Her work has garnered significant attention for its evocative lyrics and cinematic qualities.