My growing love for music and singing at a young age became very apparent, as I would torture my family by screaming songs from The Lion King in the shower and replaying Usher and Ne-Yo music videos to copy their dance moves. None of my family had any experience in music, let alone any connections in the industry; my mom always labeled my passion “a true gift from God” because no other family member had ever pursued music before. To help me hone my craft, my parents paid for vocal coaching throughout my childhood. My first instructor was a local soul/blues performer who worked at a music school; then, I had an acting coach, followed by a strict teacher at another music school. I was also encouraged to perform in our church by my first lady and the music director, where I frequently led worship. Thanks to these instructors, I learned the basics and essentials of performance, expression, and music creation. In my teens, my mom signed me up for as many performances as possible, singing the National Anthem at sports games, attending open mics, talent shows, even performing at grander events such as the U.S. Open Tennis Tournament in New York! The more I sang for audiences, the more my stage presence and musicianship developed. So, a family friend advised me to join the Philadelphia Boys Choir & Chorale, a prestigious musical group for boys and men, where I was a member for five years. It made a nerd out of me, teaching me music theory, sight-reading, and choral singing. I even uncovered my true passion from being in the choir: composition/arranging. I took an interest in vocal arranging, listening to groups like Boyz II Men and Bobby McFerrin on repeat. Writing and recording my arrangements and compositions challenged me and showed me the intricacies of music. It gave me an even greater expressive outlet and a desire to continue building that skill. Thankfully, college provides me with ample opportunity... I moved to Nashville, TN, to attend Belmont University in 2022 and have been working nonstop ever since. From ensemble/background work to music directing, I have grown as a musician with clearer goals every day. I joined multiple groups and bands and felt fulfilled in being able to create freely with like-minded people, making long-lasting memories. Although the reality of the world had turned my college path into one of the toughest journeys I have ever had to face; my family could not pay for a semester, was gradually breaking apart, and I drowned myself in work as a distraction. While I aspired, I did not give myself the room to grow properly. I learned how to treat myself better and to pursue my passion while ensuring I have space to breathe. Now, I cherish my peace and would not sacrifice anything for it. It took a lot to learn how to balance my life but going through some turmoil reminded me of my gravity: it taught me to sit and isolate, meditate, plan accordingly, and take the time to think about things. I thanked God for experiences that gave me valuable life lessons and will never forget them...regardless of whatever obstacles come. Now, my ambition to create quality art does not get thrown off. It gets strengthened by how much I mature and learn from my mistakes, making for some much improved, conscious music!

Ever since I was a kid, music has been an undeniable part of my life: from memorizing The Lion King score to covering songs by artists like Michael Jackson and Usher to using my mother’s laptop to write songs, inspiration came from all over. However, an artistic career did not seem attainable to me; I felt like I was not creative enough, not musically inclined, and not talented. I wondered what was wrong with me...Why could I not create anything that sounded good or captured my essence as a musician? Comparison kills, and I frequently considered putting to death my dreams of being a professional musician. Fortunately, moving to college--Belmont University in Nashville, TN, a.k.a. “Music City”-- I experienced my first major culture shock, being introduced to several new artists and genres that sparked my deeper love for music-making. I was able to grow and become confident in my creativity, learning from iconic styles of blues, reggae, soul, and alternative rock as well as several amazing artists, and started to seek substance in the music I listened to; something profound, or some components that testify to the hard work that creators pour into their art. From what I’ve heard, more obscure musicians steadily change the game, relying on unconventional elements, sounds, and stylistic blends in their records. Currently attending college in Nashville, I hope to use soul, jazz, rhythm & blues, and rock—genres less prominent in the city--to unlock a new level of expression that makes a mark in the world of contemporary music. Day after day, I am motivated by artists’ ideas and hope to use both my voice and intricate musical styles to build landscapes and connect with listeners, providing comfort and fantasy. I strive to move anyone who cares to listen to me, not just with words, but with my arrangements, soundscapes, or even visualizers. As an extension, I want to actively create art in intimacy with live performances. It allows for a strong connection between the performer and the audience. For instance, worship music and the atmosphere it creates; the musicians usher in a spirit of holiness, peace, and reverence that washes over the listeners and links them in one accord. Essentially, my goals extend to creating music for people to experience something. With the technological innovation that introduced AI-songwriting and music creation/production, I have been slightly worried about the future of authentic song creation. Music is a gift, a puzzle that some find fulfilling, even enchanting to work towards piecing together. I do not believe the process can be copied and still produce something that emanates human truth, emotion, and meaning. For my peers and me, for the art to be of good quality, much time should go into its development. Like this past spring, my all-male a Capella group broke the mold of other traditional a Capella groups by constructing our most impressive performance for an out-of-state competition. Before the finished product, we spent countless hours discussing what to do to serve the vision--all eighteen of us. Countless hours of rich creative discourse and tense conversation led us to our groups' final product: a magic-themed set that touched on love, curiosity, and validation, using songs: “Nature Boy” by Nat King Cole, “Magic” by New Kids on the Block, “Let Me Entertain You” by Queen, “The Devil to Pay” by Johnny Cash, and “I Put a Spell on You” by Seal. Aside from winning the competition, it excited and inspired everyone who viewed it. Now, as music director, I hope to bring the project to life and tell the story with visualization elements catered to each tune's contrasting style. To me, the project does more than establish my group's capacity to collaborate and make something beautiful; it weaves a narrative that exemplifies how music of any kind can unite and stimulate all hearers. My goal is to highlight the extent of artistic creation through the release of this and future projects, encouraging those who listen to experience music differently and let it take them on a journey they will not forget.

My growing love for music and singing at a young age became very apparent, as I would torture my family by screaming songs from The Lion King in the shower and replaying Usher and Ne-Yo music videos to copy their dance moves. None of my family had any experience in music, let alone any connections in the industry; my mom always labeled my passion “a true gift from God” because no other family member had ever pursued music before. To help me hone my craft, my parents paid for vocal coaching throughout my childhood. My first instructor was a local soul/blues performer who worked at a music school; then, I had an acting coach, followed by a strict teacher at another music school. I was also encouraged to perform in our church by my first lady and the music director, where I frequently led worship. Thanks to these instructors, I learned the basics and essentials of performance, expression, and music creation. In my teens, my mom signed me up for performances, singing the National Anthem at sports games, attending open mics, talent shows, and other events. The more I sang for audiences, the more my stage presence improved, and I looked for ways to develop my musicianship. So, a family friend advised me to join the Philadelphia Boys Choir & Chorale, a prestigious musical group for boys and men, where I stayed for five years. It made a nerd out of me, teaching me music theory, sight-reading, and group vocal blending and styling. I even uncovered my true passion from being in the choir: composition/arranging. I took an interest in vocal arranging, with groups like Boyz II Men and Bobby McFerrin on repeat. Writing and recording my arrangements and compositions brought forth new challenges and showed me the intricacies of music. It ultimately gave me an even greater expressive outlet and a desire to continue building that skill. Thankfully, college provides me with ample opportunity... I moved to Nashville, TN, to attend Belmont University in 2022 and have been working nonstop ever since. From ensemble/background work to music directing, I have grown as a musician with clearer goals every day. Regarding work, after graduation, I hope to make a career as a professional background singer and lend vocals for studio sessions and touring artists. Along with mastering my craft, I’d also work on collaborating with local artists, studio arranging, and accumulating more performance experience. Currently, I have plans to release my music that highlights influences I grew up with, like reggae/island, blues, and hip-hop. My dream is to partner with similar artists to bring more attention to these styles in Nashville and launch a collective that celebrates the variety, history, and cultural importance of Black music. Essentially, I strive to work towards forming an inclusive community that recognizes quality and more obscure styles of music. Music has not only been my passion—it’s been my path, my teacher, and my voice. God has graced me with the knowledge needed to succeed and properly follow this course. Earning my college degree is not the finish line, of course, but the foundation for everything I want to build: a career rooted in authenticity, collaboration, and cultural impact. I want to uplift the genres that shaped me, represent the communities that raised me, and contribute to a more diverse and vibrant music scene. With the support of this scholarship, I will be one step closer to turning that dream into a lifelong mission.

I can't help but yearn for the comfort of living at home in New Jersey with my family; weekend fun, move nights, taking my puppy to the dog park...even financially, my dad paid for my phone bill, I never worried about our electricity, hot water or internet, and I could always rely on a quality homecooked meal. However, closer to the end of my senior year of high school, my desire to finally get away from it all and be on my own grew. I wanted to prove to myself that I could live independently. The desire became an ache during my search for colleges, and I patiently waited for my liberation from home, or what I thought it would be. Naturally, as for many other college students, it was, of course, a very daunting experience...  I moved to Nashville, Tennessee, to attend Belmont University for music, and I lived on campus for my first year. I eventually thought to work off-campus for more money and less reliance on my parents. It was a slight wake-up call, jolting me into the reality of partial adulthood. The summer proved to be one of my most intimidating experiences: I worked 40+ hour weeks across three jobs, rented an Airbnb for a short while, and went from couch surfing to subletting my friend’s apartment. It was challenging and stressful having to find transportation without a car, pay for my phone bill, contribute to our rent, internet, electricity, and buy groceries on top of it all! I would make lists of all my bills, when to make credit card payments, and sometimes even take note of friends that I owed money to. Needless to say, I drowned in financial struggles for a long time, falling behind in my expenses, and keeping my financial problems secret for a long time.   Thankfully, though, it did not distract entirely from my goals at Belmont. I studied composing and arranging vocal and instrumental music, passionate about expressing myself through musical creation. For the first two years of school, I made it on the Dean’s List, as well. I am pursuing vocal arranging for studio artists and a Capella bands, and collaborating with local/touring artists to make their projects come to life. But I also want to make room for my peers and fellow musicians to succeed, too...With the help of the Camari Hunt Foundation scholarship, my friends and I will use the funds to continue work on an uplifting passion project to release after we graduate; we aim to raise money for struggling musicians and provide them space in densely populated cities and locations where they can confidently pursue their dreams without stressing about financial lack. We would love to hold rounds, festivals and live performances in public venues for them to showcase their gifts, encouraging them to display their art and supporting them with sponsors and quality promotional services.   Keeping these hopes of helping my broader Nashville/Belmont community, I started dedicating time to my youth ministry as a way to connect with the local community. I realized how necessary it is to establish a comfortable and accepting environment for kids while working with them, and I hope to provide a safe space for them to grow and find comfort in a church home. Now, getting to know my new church’s congregation and assisting with activities and the youth has brought back that positive goal to my life. Seeing how much they enjoy events like these and show wonder at everything continues to fulfill and inspire me to continue building safe spaces for the benefit, growth, and joy of others. Though occasionally balancing my goals with expensive living costs, I have not let financial insecurity stop me from supporting my community, and I enlist the help of close friends to ensure that we can meet our aspirations. It has compelled me to find more efficient ways to save so that I can maintain a healthy lifestyle, while being able to give to those who need it, too. I will push for the success and the development of people like me so we can cultivate inspiring environments together, when we’re financially secure and when we’re not.

This past week, I was preparing day and night for a weekend show I did not feel ready for. It set me on edge, and it became difficult to focus on anything else but memorizing songs and making sure they were learned. But interestingly enough, I felt much more in touch with my creative side and tried to find a way to express the emotions and meanings of the songs visually; my nerves about the whole thing propelled me to capture the longing subjects in some of the songs, which were inspired in turn by my own life. I rode to a nearby park with a friend to take a photo of the sunset over the city, with them standing away from the camera. Then, we returned late at night to the same spot. The second time, I caught the moon at the same height over the mountains with my friend as a juxtaposition. It was meant to capture lasting love that defies time. Simple, but a moment still invoked by my pressures.    Through a stressful situation, I found the tense moments sparked more creative rushes in me...   What invigorates my senses and creative mind are usually things that stimulate my amygdala. For example, watching a psychological thriller/horror film, waiting in anxious anticipation, or even the nerve-racking feeling when seeing a crush. While these are all circumstances that would usually restrict my thoughts, they help me in times when I feel uninspired. They trigger my mind to produce concepts, images, or stories that are influenced by a given scenario.    Because of this, a lot of my art frequently reflects my nature, personality, and experiences. Like the example from this week, I enjoy using subjects—like my friend in the two photos—that the image or idea revolves around. They usually represent my experiences with wholesome or relatable themes, like isolation, love, or lack. I demonstrate this in the photos from earlier:  The area held sentimental value for me because it was my first time in love. I enjoy reminiscing about memories, so I captured the park location at two different times because it retains its beauty during the day and night. My friend in both photos symbolizes how present I am in that state of nostalgia, constantly remembering the sensation of being there for the first time.   Additionally, recently I have enjoyed using surrealism and expressionism to explore a more discreet artistic identity and leave my works’ meanings up for interpretation. For these, I refer to more emotionally complex occasions. For instance, the death of my grandma occurred near the birth of my niece this past February. I sketched an almost morbid portrait of a woman that blended both clean and decaying features. It could be used to signify the occurrence of life and death at the same time in the world, or possibly as the trading of life from one to another. In whichever way someone decides to determine the meaning of the visual, I like to think it contributes to the complexity of my mind, where I enjoy both the simplicity and in-depth aspects.  Whether it be real-life photos or a created image, I want my life to bleed through my art so that viewers can understand me. I hope that when they see my works through their perceptions, it opens their eyes to things they did not notice in their own lives. From how strong love’s grasp can be to the intricacies of mortality, there is always something to consider and to admire.

Music has always been an essential part of my life. Still, thanks to my own experience, I realized just how powerful and stirring its emotional impact is, and how it shapes the human experience. Of course, as a music theory nerd and composer/arranger, I always enjoyed the technical aspects of constructing music. But deeper than that, I found undeniably appealing the longing, sacrifice, joy, heartbreak, and nostalgia baked into musical elements and lyrics. Studying music with these subjects is very inspiring, and it is crystal clear how love pushes people to the highest points of passion; even more so when the feeling strikes personally.   I learned about operas where characters die willingly for their significant others, instances of burning sentimentality, as well as contemporary ballads that ooze needy infatuation, going so far as to discredit themselves for their lover’s attention. Naturally, I was interested in how a person can use music to convey such intense affection; how perfectly a sung word or beautiful melody can capture what it is in a person’s soul that is too vulnerable for them to speak. I found these concepts endlessly appealing, even without a muse—a target of my longing.   Then I found my own subjects of yearning, and it all made sense. All of the meaning behind the lyrics seemed so much more tangible, and it was shocking to see how deeply it affected me. I listened to the blues tune “I Put a Spell on You,” originally by Screamin’ Jay Hawkins and covered by several other artists. The singer cries out to a lover lost to infidelity/living that is not with him, but the concept is put through the lens of a slightly morbid narrator. Even so, I somehow understood the gumption and the intensity of the lyrics.   “I put a spell on you / And now you’re mine  You better stop the things you do / I ain’t lying.  You know I can’t stand it / You’re running around, you know better, baby.   I put a spell on you / And now you’re mine!”   While admittedly a bit possessive, I related to such feelings, desiring a person to the extent that I wished to be their only focus. It extended to tunes about reliving old memories, searching for love, being content in relationships...Love and longing showed themselves fiercely through my reception to such songs.   Being able to comprehend why artists choose to go to such extremes to exhibit passionate emotion, I found myself applying it to my works, writing, and emoting through music! As a vocalist, I found I had something to pull from when performing; genuine devotion that made the lyrics real and true. Ultimately, music changed my life by instilling passion in me, and allowing me to understand a similar passion in others. I continue to see how powerful it is, in whatever context: heartbreak, newfound love, reminiscence, depression, etc. But these subjects all branch from love, and I have found enjoyment in feeling the power behind passionate words and composition. They compel me to invoke the same in others who listen to my music, and in my artistic journey, I hope someone finds them just as inspiring and powerful.

Some of the most fulfilling moments of my life were also, admittedly, some of the most draining times, too. As an aspiring musician, the hours I spent perfecting projects with other artists to create quality music were both tedious and rewarding. I never get tired of the clashing of ideas, the range of skills of everyone involved, and the enjoyable sound that we surprise ourselves with in the end. For example, this past spring, my all-male a Capella group broke the mold of other traditional [all-male] a Capella groups by abandoning clichés and shaping our most impressive performance. Of course, before the finished product, we spent countless hours discussing, consulting, and deciding what to do to serve the vision, all eighteen of us. Countless hours of rich creative discourse and tense conversation led us to our groups' best work: a magic-themed set that touched on love, curiosity, and validation, using songs: “Nature Boy” by Nat King Cole, “Magic” by New Kids on the Block, “Let Me Entertain You” by Queen, “The Devil to Pay” by Johnny Cash, and “I Put a Spell on You” by Seal. Even better, we took the project to New York for a competition and won! It excited and inspired everyone there, and was a dream to have shared. It impassioned us as a group, and I strive to do the same with my art for listeners, making music with substance that speaks to them. Since I was a kid, music has played an undeniable role in my life. From memorizing scores like those from The Lion King to copying artists like Michael Jackson and Usher, inspiration came from all over. As time passed, I learned how to truly express myself through song and performance. My mediums of expression eventually extended to production, songwriting, and arranging. While at school, several opportunities have fully enriched my passion for music. My musician friends and I have found ways to advance our musicianship by building on each other’s ideas. Recently, we formed a collective where we improvise arrangements and write on the spot. At every meeting, a new record is introduced by artists that stimulate our brains. It consistently reconnects us to our drive to create and share. While not just producing quality sound, we love playing with concepts and lyrical depth, densely textured vocal lines, unconventional genres, and other interesting techniques that make the music open-minded and open-ended. I also wish to teach and inspire the next wave of aspiring musicians, presenting to them the same paths and direction that my instructors gave to me. With the lack of sufficient resources for music students to thrive and grow in many places, I hope to encourage them to chase their dreams by bringing those resources to them! By sharing my own experience and demonstrating the multitude of things I have learned, I would like to instill in younger generations the boldness to pursue a musical education/artistic lifestyle. Additionally, I plan to offer the chance to engage in collaboration with professional musicians early. This removes them from their comfort zones and helps refine their skills. In connecting with eager students, I would hope it conveys successfully that commitment to a passion that you love bears good fruit, and making the right moves to cultivate it will benefit your future. If motivation takes you to places where your passion is encouraged, why not leap and pursue that path?

Two pairs of signature colors; blue and red, and red and white. My primary options for pursuing a postsecondary education; Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee vs. Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts. My majors chosen for each; Commercial Music with an emphasis in composition and arranging at Belmont versus Professional Music at Berklee. As a senior in high school, my stomach twisted on my couch while praying for God to reveal which school I was to spend the next four years at. While admittedly country is not my preferred genre, and with the Lord’s guidance, I finally went in the direction of Music City Nashville to take advantage of the opportunities and musical variety of the location. In my short period of venturing and networking at Belmont, God opened doors for me to work as a background singer, win an a Capella competition with my school group, record/arrange with several producers and engineers, along with additional endeavors. The environment reminded me every day why I strive for a musical occupation. My essential desires for my academic tenure consist of developing my vocal proficiency, ear training, and acute understanding of musical tastes. I seek to cultivate relationships and collaborations with other musicians so that by the time I graduate, I can attain work in professional settings. I have felt music as my calling for a long time, itching to express my experiences and sentiments through song, which is my medium. In my first single, “P.B.A.,” I wrote about my high school experience and preferring isolation over social environments. It was liberating, and I felt a little piece of my voice had finally made it out into the world. I aim to give my character and personality a platform through music and weave through the range of vocations that incorporate exploring multiple styles, plus having a refined musical ear. As a black student, too, I work on introducing my notable influence by presenting the unique music that I grew up with to my area, mainly island/reggae music. I believe there is significance in the exposition of less prominent genres and styles because it plants seeds in listeners’ ears and inspires them to exit their sonical comfort zones. After school, I hope to join a background singer organization called Team BGV, which hires professional and advanced-level musicians to not only backup artists, but arrange, co-write, and direct, too. While my experience with music progressed quicker in recent years, my early background with music is interestingly enough not very extensive since the grade schools that I attended had small-scale, underfunded music programs. They did not provide much to my musical foundation, and as I reflect on life, I wish they offered more to propose to potential musicians at young ages. While I participated in school choirs and vocal ensembles in elementary and middle school, my understanding of music came primarily from outside groups and lessons. Keeping music in grade schools allows students to realize and grasp exactly what their proficiency is in the arts. An early enough introduction and comprehension set up their life easier, now that they have a foundation in what they want to pursue. For example, teaching the fundamentals of music theory to elementary school choirs or middle school bands, so they know the mechanics of what they are singing or playing. Or, hiring vocal/instrumental teachers for more in-depth student lessons. The encouraging and rewarding of opportunities for young musicians instills their motivation. Music in grade schools welcomes early proficiency and, in doing so, commences an early path to success.

COVID was one of the most enhancing, productive times of my life as a musician. Naturally, I was upset at my inability to do anything without worrying about vulnerability to illness. But alone in my room for the majority of the day, I made sure to spend my endless free time efficiently; my eagerness to continue improving and building my musicianship soared. That summer I expanded my musical taste, taught myself guitar and piano, took on songwriting and arranging, and developed my musical dictionary. Though I was not able to sing publicly, I persisted with virtual vocal lessons (and concerts) to balance the lack of outside practice. The time encouraged me to find what it was that I wanted out of life, and music creation ruled as my top choice. Before that year, my performance background was also very extensive: I started leading worship in church at seven, was a member of the reputable Philadelphia Boys Choir & Chorale for five years, starred in an Italian opera, performed at the U.S. Open Tennis Tournament twice, along with other achievements. Since a kid, my family has supported me and sought out coaches and instructors to help hone my craft. Ranging from church directors to acting coaches, my knowledge as a vocalist matured while I aspired to accumulate as much performance experience as I could. These opportunities intensified my desire to perform and the enjoyment I received from it. However, until the summer of 2020, I never tested the range of my creative capabilities, exploring the scope of musical options available. Every time I listened to my favorite artists and releases of stuck-at-home singer-songwriters and musicians, I felt inspired to form my own worlds in my music. I wrote songs about painful rejection, love languages, sweaty midnights, ugly summers, and broadened my visions with my art. Writing about these things gave my experiences character, and encouraged me to think about how to communicate things vividly. Finally, in 2021, I produced my debut single, “P.B.A. (Perfect Being Alone),” an anthem for isolation. It was the perfect manifestation of my personality and what I wanted to release to the world as an artist. The process aided my versatility, too, combining theory, ear training, production, and vocal proficiency. While making myself as well-rounded as possible, I ultimately decided in my senior year my dream occupation was as a performing artist and arranger. Music creation fulfills a part of me that hopes to uplift listeners with substance and songs that evoke sensations of stability and relatability. While at Belmont University, I further sharpened my musical ear, and composing skills, and sought and still seek vocal training for the best possible use of my gift. One of my most memorable opportunities was being asked to perform at a Mental Health Writer’s Round, and debuting a song I wrote during COVID about rejection, “Choose Me @12.” The arrangement was simple, with repeating sections and hooks, but effective. One of my favorite performances, it captured the themes and meanings I highlight in my music, as well as showcasing what I have learned on my musical journey. I strive to continue creating with a purpose and ensure that what I make resonates with listeners. While my progress can only grow, I also wish to refine my passion as a background artist/vocal arranger for others in additional collaborative adventures. As a touring BGV, I hope to provide depth to other artists' sets and understand how to consciously construct cohesive, authentic songs and shows, using instrumental elements, lyrics, and vocals.

As a singer in a non-musical family, finding performance opportunities without good connections to the music industry was hard. My family could not fully invest in my passion since I was one of four kids, and the cost would be too taxing. This did not stop my mother, who firmly believed in my gift, from taking every step possible to get me the vocal teaching I needed and the resources to benefit. She was a strong-willed and wise woman who pushed me from a young age to gradually break through my fears and build my confidence as a performer. Without my mother, most opportunities I was blessed to have may not have been presented to me. She worked similarly to a manager, telling friends, coworkers, and event directors about my voice. In my early years of performing, I often opened for sports games and sang at holiday events, fairs, and other shows. Thanks to her, I frequently led worship at our church home at a young age. Without a professional agent, I appreciated my mom finding chances to help me learn how I could hone my gift. She also served as my first “coach” and number one fan, always the first to encourage and urge me to continue improving my craft. At twelve, I earned the opportunity to perform “America, the Beautiful” at the U.S. Open tennis tournament. While there, she ensured I was diligent in warming up my voice to give the best performance. Before I knew what it took to be a singer, she trained me in consistency, discipline, and putting in the work to improve. Throughout my life, I have seen my mother at her most challenging stages during difficult times and gleaned several lessons about handling situations, being assertive, and working committedly. I remember her strong example in multiple circumstances, inspiring me to always act with purpose and stand firm in my ideals. For instance, I was offered a part in a very crude show in high school. My mom always reminded me to question if anything I participated in would represent God and who we are as believers in Christ. As a people-pleaser, I would base my decisions on other people’s perspectives of me, and I did precisely that by accepting the role. Her warnings that fulfillment does not come from human approval sat with me until senior year when I learned to decline things that were not for me. Now that I am miles away at school, her words ring more accurately than ever while I pursue a music career in a corrupt industry. Multiple opportunities have presented themselves during my time away, but I work so that my decisions reflect her teaching and example. I frequently refer to how she would respond and behave in situations she went through, staying genuine in her beliefs and acknowledging her self-worth, firm enough not to let anyone walk over her. Because of the drive and self-discipline that she helped to instill in me, I left home confident in myself to pave my way as a musician. Mom inspired me then and now to seek improvement and opportunities by speaking for myself and remaining steady in the mindset that I am unique and have something to offer. Her love and encouragement push me through discouragement, ensuring that I am ready to chase my dreams.

With the abundance of free time the pandemic gave me in 2020, inspiration hit me multiple times in my stuffy room. All day I sat in my makeshift studio teaching myself how to produce vocals on Logic, using MuseScore for compositions, and recording covers with my $70 mic. I urged myself not to be overcome with boredom and tapped into my love for music and creativity. These strengths provided me with a well-rounded musical skillset, allowing me to be self-sufficient in forming my ideas. Getting a taste of this self-sufficiency, I realized my true passion for performing my work. My first single, "P.B.A.," which I wrote, self-produced, and arranged, was the first original that genuinely reflected me. While writing it, I knew I wanted to be even more vulnerable in future songs, finding new ways to pass on unique and original ideas. While I grew fond of music creation, I sought artists that used their gifts in distinctive ways to expand my range. For example, during high school, Pentatonix's album The Lucky Ones, Peter Cottontale's CATCH, and singers Peter Collins and Lalah Hathaway displayed the musicality I hoped to possess in my pieces. When I soaked in their profound lyrics and melodies, I wrote more fervently, inspired by their abilities and how their ideas translated to the music so well; Pentatonix's satisfying vocal arrangements, Peter Cottontale's storytelling, Peter Collins' mind-blowing vocal agility, and Lalah Hathaway's jazzy influence. Listening to and watching them seamlessly convey themselves in performance encouraged me to sharpen my craft and ultimately pursue making music. In my career, I want my art to usher listeners outside of the mainstream and help them relate to experiences if they feel excluded because of who they are. Sometimes, as a black singer/songwriter, I feel automatically categorized into a genre of music that does not correlate with who I am. I write to convey relatable themes and enlighten people with sincere topics that attest to my character. Providing my art with substance pushes my originality and helps me refine my artistry. With the many things I have learned about life, I plan to use unique, relatable interpretations and my passion for music to catch listeners' attention; for instance, uncomfortable friendships, irritating confrontations, peaceful moments, longing, etc. "P.B.A." is about preferring quiet isolation to spontaneity with friends using distinctive lyrics and a groovy hook: "So long, my friend / Before the end, I'll leave / Ten out of ten, would do it again with you / Not personal / But when I go, just know / I'm perfect being alone." Writing the song let me express my personality to an audience that understood it and, therefore, me. It taught me that there will be people who appreciate what I say and encouraged me to continue writing about my authentic experiences and test my musical mind. I want my music to have a lasting effect on hearers, stimulating their senses and allowing them to relate to experiences or sentiments. As I have learned, someone is out there who connects with you on some level, and I want to reach out and connect with them. I also want to exhibit genuine sincerity, encouraging the notion that staying true to your personality proves the best way to maintain happiness and comfortability in your craft. In a world where selling your soul or sticking to the status quo provides you with success, I strive to prove that success does not mean conforming.

"Another Lifetime" by British R&B singer Nao impacts me because of its captivating melody and longing lyrics: "I guess I'll wait another lifetime / 'Cause there I will stay my darling / I swear I won't run from you." I imagine myself in her circumstances because of how profound the song is. It inspires me to create music that invokes the same feeling for others. Music can usher listeners into a state of contentment and reach places spoken words cannot so effectively. Sometimes, as a black singer/songwriter, I feel automatically categorized into a genre of music that does not correlate with who I am. I work to convey relatable themes and enlighten people with sincere topics that attest to my character. Providing my art with substance pushes my originality and helps me refine my artistry. With the many things I have learned about life, I plan to use unique, relatable interpretations and my passion for music to catch listeners' attention; for instance, uncomfortable friendships, irritating confrontations, peaceful moments, longing, etc. My debut single, "P.B.A.," presents the concept of preferring quiet isolation to spontaneity with friends using distinctive lyrics and a groovy hook: "So long, my friend / Before the end, I'll leave / Ten out of ten, would do it again with you / Not personal / But when I go, just know / I'm perfect being alone." Writing the song let me display my personality to an audience that understood and loved it. That piece taught me that people appreciate what I express with my art and encouraged me to continue writing about my authentic experiences and create clever musical ideas to match. How "Another Lifetime" submerges me in the emotions of Nao, my music will place others in my shoes when they listen. I want my art to have a lasting effect on hearers, stimulating their senses and allowing them to relate to experiences or emotions. I also want to exhibit genuine sincerity, encouraging the notion that staying true to your personality proves the best way to maintain happiness and comfortability in your craft.

As an artist, my musical journey encompasses various parts of my life that built my knowledge and skill. From age two to nineteen, God blessed me with many unique opportunities and gifts that shaped my mind and pushed me toward an intended focus. My family witnessed my growing love for music and singing at a young age, mimicking songs I heard and finding my voice. Music became a significant part of who I am, and I cherished it as a God-given gift. Wanting to help me develop this gift, my parents paid for vocal lessons and teaching periodically throughout my childhood; my first teacher was a local performer that worked in a music school, then an acting coach. I was also encouraged to perform in our church home, where the first lady and music director taught me to worship and sing for God. Thanks to these instructors, I was introduced to performing and the concept of performance expression, a lesson I still value. Before I turned ten, my mother signed me up for performances, including singing the National Anthem for games, open mics, talent shows, and many others. The more I sang for audiences, my stage presence and musical presentation would further establish. Once in third grade, a family friend advised me to join the Philadelphia Boys Choir & Chorale, a prestigious musical group of boys and men. As a member for five years, I acquired proficiency in music theory, sight-reading, ensemble blending, and voice styling. Due to my time in the choir, I realized my passion for music ran deeper than simply performing; I had also discovered an interest in composition/arranging. I enjoyed composing music for ensembles and recording them because it tested my creative mind. It also helped me appreciate music for its complexities. Frankly, writing and singing my original pieces gave me an even greater expressive outlet and a desire to continue building that proficiency. During high school, while figuring out what I wanted to do, I participated in additional choirs and musical groups, having fun as an ensemble member with other talented students. My time with those groups taught me versatility in singing different genres, notably musical theater, opera, and classical. When the pandemic hit, I was a sophomore and eventually found an interest in production and studio recording. While still taking vocal lessons and self-teaching myself how to compose, arrange, and produce, I grew a desire to share my creativity with others. That finally culminated in my debut single, “P.B.A.,” an authentic smooth pop song about my social preferences and holding on to comfort. Since then, I have sought to create a name for myself as an artist and polish my passion by taking additional theory and production classes, learning more instruments, and booking myself for performances. At nineteen years old, I pride myself on accumulating plenty of experience to finally reach my current skill level. At Belmont University, I major in Commercial Music: Voice, emphasizing in Composition and Arranging. I plan to use the next three years to familiarize myself with business while taking the time to write and create music that fits me. Some other students and I also aim to create an exclusive musical ensemble to blend our artistic ideas and voices. After graduating with my B.A., I will sell compositions to artists and musicians before joining the background vocalist organization, TeamBGV. With them, I challenge myself by recording with other singers, managing time, and improving my musicianship, all as part of an occupation. The opportunities opened to me will allow me to grow further and pursue my art ultimately.

In junior year, I participated in my school musical with my group of friends. In the cast was also a student who everyone pitied and avoided. He was ambitious, always seeking to get better and work to improve with us. Seeing this, I decided to work with him as well, practicing lines with him, talking about our respective performances, as well as spending time with him outside of rehearsals. This baffled my other friends, mistaking my friendship for taking pity on him. However, though not many others gave him the time of day, he did not see it that way. He cherished our friendship and time together, and I respected him, noticing how hard he worked to refine his acting skills. One time after we hung out during his birthday, his mother caught me and expressed her gratitude for our friendship. She appreciated my support and aid towards him and saw me as a beneficial companion for him. Fundamentally, what I view as my most prominent quality displayed itself; my thoughtfulness. I value this trait most because it highlights caring for and considering others’ needs that may not be reflected on the surface. As someone misunderstood by many, I understand the difficulty of not having my needs acknowledged or noticed, and what I wish to be for someone else is their rock that they can depend on in any circumstance. It also establishes long-lasting relationships that are based upon support and mindfulness. Being considerate also attracts, since people notice the goodness in me that makes me dependable and reliable. Maintaining this characteristic will help me in developing friendships where I can provide support instead of continuously receiving it. In supporting others, I give back the encouragement and wisdom given to me to the benefit of their mental stability. Essentially, I hope to spread the love I have acquired from my relationships to others who need it as well, especially those who do not have steady sources of support. Remaining considerate is a significant key in life because desiring to help others work to improve exhibits character, and provides a sense of fulfillment. Though I do not wish to help others solely for my own purpose, I strongly believe staying mindful in friendships creates deeper connections where both parties are benefitted. Similar to the student I befriended in junior year, the advantages of remaining thoughtful do well to build up everyone and make lasting friendships.