PENSACOLA, Fla. — A red carpet will roll out at Pensacola High School on Saturday, April 12, as the Lightyear Sisters host the premiere of their debut music video, Pancakes—an event that blends indie artistry, personal storytelling and grassroots ambition.
The event, running from 6 to 9:30 p.m., will showcase the band’s first official music video alongside live performances, merchandise giveaways and a fundraiser for their first full-length album. Guests are encouraged to dress for the occasion and show support by purchasing tickets, bringing friends or donating to the band’s upcoming projects.
Founded by sisters Olivia and Selena, the Lightyear Sisters have deep roots in the Gulf Coast arts community. Olivia, a graduate of the University of West Florida’s music program with an outside field in communications, credits her time at UWF as where her creative vision took shape.
“I had always been torn between my two passions: songwriting and filmmaking,” Olivia said. “So when the University of West Florida offered a B.A. in music with an outside field in communications, I knew I had found my perfect path—a way to study both. My goal was to learn how to create and promote my own music videos while refining my craft as a musician.”
That’s exactly what she did.
The Lightyear Sisters’ sound blends smooth jazz influences with a pop-forward tone, supported by original choreography and visuals. Olivia described the group’s early years as filled with porch concerts, treehouse rehearsals and local performances across the 30A area. Over time, those childhood experiments grew into a mission-driven act focused on emotional connection and creative expression.
“From the moment I could talk, I was songwriting,” she said. “There are home videos of me as a toddler, standing in the rain, making up songs about how grateful I was to the Lord for the day and the rain. When my little sister, Selena, was born, I had an automatic bandmate. She was a natural performer, and I loved writing songs, so we made the perfect duo.”
The Pancakes music video—set to premiere at the event—was co-directed by Olivia and fellow UWF alum Chase Livingston. The project represents years of creative development, shaped by both formal training and personal experience.
“Music isn’t just our passion—it’s a force for healing and connection,” Olivia said. “During the times I felt most alone, music reminded me that I wasn’t. It taught me that feelings are meant to be felt, and that loneliness can be an opportunity to create.”
Now joined by drummer Jason, the trio is using this moment not only to launch their music video but also to raise funds for their first album.
Those unable to attend in person will be able to view the Pancakes music video online after the premiere. Supporters can donate or purchase merchandise through the band’s website: www.lightyearsisters.com.
Come out and support Pensacola’s own homegrown artists.
