The people that have inspired me the most were dancers and choreographers. Even growing up, if I dealt with any pressure to be a certain way, I knew that as an artistic lane, dancing was the one that was a little more freed up - like, no one in my family is really doing that; I can be that person.

The quote by Jillian Hervey reflects her artistic inspiration and the freedom she found in dance. When she says, “The people that have inspired me the most were dancers and choreographers,” she emphasizes the influence of creative role models in shaping her identity and passion. Dancers and choreographers represent expression, individuality, and artistry, qualities that resonated with her and encouraged her to pursue a creative path.

She continues, “Even growing up, if I dealt with any pressure to be a certain way, I knew that as an artistic lane, dancing was the one that was a little more freed up,” highlighting dance as an escape from social or familial expectations. For Hervey, movement and performance provided a space of liberation, where she could express herself without judgment or restriction. This illustrates how art often serves as a refuge and outlet, allowing individuals to define themselves authentically outside of external pressures.

The statement, “No one in my family is really doing that; I can be that person,” reflects her desire for individuality and the courage to forge her own path. By choosing an artistic lane unique to her family, Hervey both honored her creative impulses and distinguished her personal identity. This part of the quote carries themes of self-discovery, independence, and the transformative power of artistic expression.

The origin of this quote comes from Jillian Hervey, a singer, dancer, and member of the musical duo Lion Babe, in interviews about her artistic journey and influences. As the daughter of actress Vanessa Williams, Hervey grew up around the entertainment industry but carved her own creative identity through dance and performance. This statement captures her personal evolution, showing how inspiration, freedom, and family context intertwined to shape her unique artistic voice.