With hard-hitting beats, profound lyrics, and a killer voice, Teesa is not your average pop princess.

(c) Crystal Shei
I’m not going to beat around the bush, so let me introduce to you music technology expert, inventor and producer Mike Gao. The 26-year-old debuted his solo album Sun Shadows last month. His iPhone application Vocal Beater, which allows musicians to record beatboxing and instantly send themselves MIDI files, has been a success story in the market. The Southern Californian is redefining music, naturally breaking Asian stereotypes, and ultimately doing what he loves. Did I mention that he also loves K-pop group Girls Generation? Anyways, here is what the Chinese American has to say about his life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.