Music

August 23 2024

Angel Rene’s New Single “Everywhere in Between” & Musical Journey

Exploring Music, Growth, and Artistic Integrity with Angel Renee on Icon Presents

In the latest episode of Icon Presents, host Antwon Haynes welcomes singer-songwriter Angel Renee for an in-depth conversation about his music, creative process, and personal journey. Known for his evocative lyrics and unique sound, Angel discusses his new single “Everywhere in Between,” the inspiration behind his music, and his approach to balancing art with the demands of the music industry.

The Story Behind “Everywhere in Between”

The episode begins with Angel Renee performing his latest single, “Everywhere in Between,” a song that explores the omnipresence of time and its impact on human experience. Inspired by the phrase, “whatever is has already been, and whatever will be has been before,” Angel delves into how time shapes culture, language, and personal growth. The single is set to be released in October, with an album planned for spring 2025.

The Appeal of Vinyl and Rebranding

Antwon and Angel discuss the possibility of releasing the upcoming album on vinyl, touching on the resurgence of vinyl as a physical collectible. While Angel expresses interest, he’s unsure about the logistics and demand. They also explore the emotional and financial investment behind the album, with Angel sharing his excitement about rebranding and seeing people connect with his music at live shows.

Influences and Musical Journey

Angel reflects on his musical influences, citing artists like Young the Giant, The Fray, and Madison Cunningham. He particularly admires Cunningham’s boundary-breaking songwriting skills. Beyond music, Angel draws inspiration from Maya Angelou, appreciating her dynamic and well-rounded approach to life. Balancing academics with his passion, Angel maintains a 4.0 GPA while pursuing his music career.

Family Legacy and Artistic Integrity

Coming from a musical family, with a mother who is now an actress and a father who was a keyboard player, Angel discusses how his family’s legacy has influenced his career. Despite not being close with many family members, their impact on his musical roots is evident. He emphasizes creating art for art’s sake, striving to maintain the integrity of his work while also engaging his audience.

Highs, Lows, and Future Aspirations

Angel shares the high points of his career, including finding his producer, Case Cooley, in Nashville, which led to significant emotional and professional growth. However, he also opens up about the low points, such as losing major friendships and dealing with family issues. Through it all, Angel has learned to let go of expectations and find joy in the process.

Looking ahead, Angel outlines his goals of completing his album, performing more shows, and continuing to grow both personally and professionally. He reflects on his perspective on success, focusing on listening, sensitivity, and consistency as key elements in his journey.

Listen to the Full Episode

This episode of Icon Presents offers a candid and inspiring look at Angel Renee’s journey as an artist, his approach to music, and the challenges he’s overcome. Whether you’re a fan of Angel’s work or interested in the creative process, this conversation provides valuable insights into the life of a rising artist.

Tune in to the full episode on Icon Presents to hear more about Angel’s upcoming projects, his thoughts on balancing artistic integrity with commercial success, and his vision for the future. Don’t forget to follow Angel Renee and stay connected with his music as he continues to grow and evolve.

At Icon Presents, we’re dedicated to sharing the stories behind the music, art, and creativity that shape our culture. Stay tuned for more interviews and insights from the most compelling voices in the creative world.

August 23 2024

From Doubt to Determination Isaura’s Path to Musical Success

Exploring Cultural Identity and Musical Journey with Isaura on Icon Presents

In the latest episode of Icon Presents, host Antwon Haynes sits down with rising artist Isaura to discuss the intersection of music, cultural identity, and personal growth. Isaura opens up about her journey from choir classes in high school to becoming a passionate singer-songwriter, blending early 2000s R&B and pop influences with modern sounds. This episode offers an inspiring look at Isaura’s creative process and the challenges she’s faced along the way.

Embracing Cultural Identity Through Music

Isaura kicks off the conversation by sharing how her Mexican heritage influences her music and songwriting. Although she initially didn’t pursue music seriously until the COVID-19 pandemic, her cultural background has always been a significant part of her identity. Now, she’s finding ways to connect with her Hispanic roots through her music, blending those influences with the R&B and pop sounds she grew up loving.

Antwon dives deeper into Isaura’s musical journey, asking about her early influences and the creative process behind her songs. Isaura cites early 2000s artists like Destiny’s Child, Keyshia Cole, and Mariah Carey as major inspirations, particularly admiring Carey’s vocal range and style.

Overcoming Anxiety and Self-Doubt

Like many artists, Isaura has faced her share of anxiety and self-doubt. She opens up about the challenges of rebuilding her vocal muscle memory after a hiatus and how she’s had to push herself to overcome insecurities about her music career. Despite the support of her family and friends, Isaura has sometimes struggled to believe in herself.

One of the standout moments for Isaura was writing the song “Nurture,” which became a source of comfort and motivation during tough times. She also talks about how working in a friend’s home studio in LA helped her regain confidence and continue pursuing her passion for music.

The Creative Process and Artist Development

Isaura’s passion for music shines through as she discusses her creative process and her goals for the future. She’s focused on getting more exposure, working with labels, and developing her songwriting skills, not just for herself but for other artists as well. Her music blends modern and old-school elements, aiming to tell stories that resonate deeply with listeners.

Isaura also mentions her admiration for artists like Tink and Tweed, who inspire her with their ability to create catchy, poetic lyrics that appeal to a wide audience. She’s particularly inspired by Tink’s success as an independent artist and her unique blend of old-school R&B with a modern twist.

Facing Challenges and Persevering in the Music Industry

Throughout the conversation, Isaura and Antwon touch on the challenges of navigating the music industry, particularly as it relates to race and identity. Isaura shares her struggles with learning Vietnamese and Spanish, languages that connect her to her cultural heritage, and her appreciation for other up-and-coming artists who are finding their own paths.

Antwon offers his perspective on the industry, expressing concern that the bar has been set too low in some areas, which can contribute to self-doubt among serious artists. Isaura’s advice to fellow creators is to be a bit delusional—believe in yourself, even if you don’t love your first work, and keep pushing forward.

Listen to the Full Episode

This episode of Icon Presents provides an intimate and inspiring look at Isaura’s journey as an artist. From embracing her cultural identity to overcoming self-doubt, Isaura’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and passion. Whether you’re a fan of her music or just looking for some motivation, there’s plenty to take away from this conversation.

Tune in to the full episode on Icon Presents to hear more about Isaura’s upcoming EP “Jupiter,” set to release in July, and her thoughts on blending modern and old-school music influences. Don’t forget to follow her on Instagram and all streaming platforms to support her music and stay updated on her latest projects.

At Icon Presents, we’re committed to sharing the stories behind the music, art, and creativity that shape our culture. Stay tuned for more interviews and insights from the most exciting voices in the creative world.

August 23 2024

Harmony, Anxiety, Creativity, and Music with Shea Givens

Embracing Creativity and Battling Self-Doubt with Shea Givens on Icon Presents

In the latest episode of Icon Presents, host Antwon Haynes chats with singer-songwriter Shea Givens about her journey from Missouri to California, her creative process, and how she’s learned to navigate anxiety and self-doubt along the way. Shea opens up about the real struggles and triumphs that have shaped her as an artist, offering a relatable and inspiring perspective for anyone in the creative field.

Turning Anxiety into Art

Shea starts the conversation by discussing how anxiety has been a significant influence on her songwriting. She shares her unique method of capturing ideas—often starting with vocal memos and improvising lyrics that gradually take shape. Growing up, Shea’s love for music was nurtured by singing with her mom and learning piano at school, a passion that followed her when she moved to California ten years ago to pursue her music dreams.

This move was a big step, bringing her closer to family and opening up new opportunities in her music career. It’s clear that California has played a crucial role in her growth as an artist.

Finding Inspiration and Embracing Imperfections

As they continue to talk, Shea reveals the inspirations behind her music, including legendary artists like Aretha Franklin, Shania Twain, and Allen Stone. She’s working on an upcoming album that features live band performances, something she’s particularly excited about because it allows for the kind of creative freedom she values. Shea and Antwon both agree that there’s something special about the imperfections and raw emotions in live music—it’s those human elements that make it so powerful.

Shea also reflects on the energy of live performances, which she finds incredibly rewarding. For her, there’s nothing quite like the connection and authenticity that come from being on stage.

Overcoming Self-Doubt and Growing as an Artist

Shea opens up about the challenges she faces with self-doubt and perfectionism, admitting that she can be her own harshest critic, especially when it comes to her performances and appearance. Antwon and Shea discuss the difficulties of putting yourself out there, particularly in creative fields where self-criticism can easily take over.

Despite these challenges, Shea finds strength in her deep connection to music—it’s an essential part of who she is. She talks about the joy she finds in performing live, even admitting that it can be a bit of a selfish pursuit because it’s where she feels most free and expressive.

Looking Ahead: New Music and Live Shows

As the episode wraps up, Shea shares her excitement about her upcoming music and live performances. She talks about growing up watching her mom perform and her dad’s involvement in a band, which helped her feel comfortable on stage from a young age. Now, with her own band and original music, she’s focused on continuing to grow and refine her sound.

Shea encourages other creators to keep pushing through their struggles and to find joy in their work, even when self-doubt creeps in. She’s looking forward to what’s next and invites listeners to follow her journey on social media.

Catch the Full Episode

This episode of Icon Presents gives you a candid look at Shea Givens’ journey, from managing anxiety to embracing the imperfections that make her music so relatable. Whether you’re a fan of Shea’s work or someone looking for creative inspiration, you’ll find plenty to connect with in this conversation.

Tune in to the full episode on Icon Presents to hear more about Shea’s new projects, her thoughts on overcoming self-doubt, and why staying true to yourself is so important in the creative process. Don’t forget to follow her on Instagram at @shakeevansmusic and check out her website for updates and new music.

At Icon Presents, we’re all about sharing the stories behind the music, art, and creativity that shape our culture. Keep an eye out for more interviews and insights from the incredible voices in the creative world.

August 23 2024

Embracing Change: The Journey of Erin O’Neil in Music and Life

Exploring Personal Growth and Music with Erin O’Neil on Icon Presents

In the latest episode of Icon Presents, host Antwon Haynes sits down with singer-songwriter Erin O’Neil for a candid conversation about life changes, personal growth, and the creative process behind her music. This episode offers a heartfelt look into Erin’s journey as an artist and the experiences that have shaped her work.

Navigating Life Changes and Finding Freedom

The episode opens with a reflective discussion between Erin and Antwon about feeling lost and trapped in their lives at various points. Erin shares how these feelings have influenced her songwriting, with themes of freedom and forgiveness recurring in her work. She even performs songs that touch on these themes, including tracks about tequila and love, which highlight her ability to blend personal experiences with relatable narratives.

Erin also opens up about her struggles with anxiety and the significant changes she has made in her life to overcome these challenges. Antwon relates to the topic of setting New Year’s resolutions and the difficulties in following through, making the conversation deeply personal and relatable.

The Creative Process and Upcoming Music

As the conversation progresses, Erin delves into her creative process, explaining how melodies and lyrics often come to her first, followed by guitar and vocal demos. She also discusses her upcoming music projects with Antwon, revealing that she has two new singles on the way—one in Spanish and another in English. The excitement around these releases is palpable, as Erin shares her experiences collaborating with producer Shankar Tucker to bring these songs to life.

Growing as an Artist and Collaborating with Others

Erin reflects on her growth as an artist, noting that she feels less scared and more willing to play and have fun with her music now. She shares how her husband’s drumming skills connected her with Shankar and Video Vox, leading to exciting new collaborations. Erin’s journey from making noise as a child to overcoming stage fright and studying voice in college is an inspiring story of perseverance and passion.

Musical Inspirations and Genre Exploration

The conversation takes an interesting turn as Erin discusses her musical inspirations, including Destiny’s Child, Emily Sandé, and St. Vincent. She recounts her early days of performing for her stuffed animals with No Doubt’s Tragic Kingdom playing on repeat—a testament to how deeply music has been a part of her life from the beginning.

Erin also touches on the challenges of categorizing her music into a specific genre. Rather than trying to fit into a particular mold, she prefers to focus on creating music that feels authentic and natural to her. This approach has allowed her to explore a wide range of musical styles, from indie folk to rock to hip hop, and has led to some of her most cherished experiences, like recording a live album in a legendary studio.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Artists

Toward the end of the episode, Erin and Antwon discuss the challenges of working in creative fields and maintaining motivation. Erin shares her involvement with a rock camp for young girls, where she helps inspire and empower the next generation of female musicians. She emphasizes the importance of trust and creative expression, particularly in environments run by women.

Antwon echoes these sentiments, highlighting the long-term benefits of music programs in schools and how they help build confidence and intuition in young people. The conversation underscores the value of music not just as an art form, but as a tool for personal growth and self-discovery.

Listen to the Full Episode

This episode of Icon Presents offers an intimate and inspiring look at Erin O’Neil’s journey as an artist, her creative process, and her dedication to empowering others through music. Whether you’re an aspiring musician or simply a fan of Erin’s work, this episode is filled with valuable insights and heartfelt moments.

Be sure to tune in to the full episode on Icon Presents to hear more about Erin’s upcoming projects, her thoughts on personal growth, and how she’s using her music to make a positive impact. And don’t forget to support her by following, streaming, and sharing her music.

At Icon Presents, we’re committed to bringing you the stories behind the music, art, and creativity that shape our culture. Stay tuned for more interviews and insights from the most compelling voices in the creative world.

August 23 2024

Alibis – The Heartbeat of Authenticity in Music

Behind the Music: A Conversation with Rainy and Kris of Alibis on Icon Presents

In the latest episode of Icon Presents, host Antwon Haynes sits down with Rainy and Kris, the creative forces behind the band Alibis. The conversation flows effortlessly as they dive into the stories behind their music, the creative process, and the journey that brought them together as a band. Whether you’re a fan of their music or just curious about the life of independent musicians, this episode offers plenty of insight and inspiration.

The Story Behind the Music

The episode kicks off with a chat about Alibis’ latest single, “Sell Out Ladies and Gentlemen,” recorded in Los Angeles. Rainy and Kris open up about the inspiration behind the track and reflect on another fan favorite, “They Live.” Their music is deeply personal, blending their diverse influences and life experiences to create songs that truly resonate with listeners.

Rainy also shares the backstory of “Darkside,” a song that explores themes of self-sabotage and the darker sides of the human experience. Written by Rainy, “Darkside” is a powerful and honest reflection on internal struggles, showcasing the vulnerability that lies at the heart of their music.

Keeping It Real: The Creative Process

A big part of the episode focuses on the importance of authenticity in the creative process. Rainy and Kris stress how crucial it is to stay true to their emotions and experiences when making music. Kris talks about the importance of emotional honesty, noting that it’s what allows their music to connect with people on a deeper level.

They also dive into the technical side of things, discussing how they use platforms like Ableton and Pro Tools in their production process. By working separately on writing and recording, they ensure that the music they create remains true to their vision, reflecting their genuine artistic expression.

From Solo Acts to Bandmates: The Alibis Journey

Rainy and Kris share their individual paths in the music industry and how they eventually came together to form Alibis. Rainy talks about the importance of discovering their identity as a songwriter before teaming up with Kris, explaining how their solo work set the stage for the band’s current sound. They’re also open to revisiting some of Rainy’s earlier solo songs, possibly reworking them with the band to bring a fresh perspective.

Kris shares a particularly intense story from their past, involving a metal band that faced a violent incident at a club. This experience pushed Kris to seek out a more serious and focused musical direction, leading to the creative partnership with Rainy that we now see in Alibis.

What’s Next: Touring, New Music, and the Future of Alibis

The episode also touches on Rainy and Kris’s experiences on tour, including their move to Los Angeles to pursue their music careers. They talk about the challenges of adapting to new environments and the thrill of performing for fans in different countries, especially the warm reception they received in the UK.

Looking ahead, the band is excited about their upcoming single “Sellout,” which is set to drop next Friday, with an EP to follow. They also chat about how fans can support independent artists like themselves—by following them on social media, subscribing to their YouTube channel, and grabbing some merch.

Staying True to Your Passion

Throughout the conversation, Rainy, Kris, and Antwon Haynes keep coming back to one central theme: the importance of passion and authenticity in music. Whether it’s playing an acoustic set during a power outage or taking risks to pursue their creative dreams, the trio agrees that staying true to yourself is key to making music that truly resonates.

Rainy and Kris believe that being honest in your artistry is what ultimately connects with people, turning their music into a genuine expression of their experiences and emotions.

Tune In to Icon Presents

This episode of Icon Presents offers a candid look into the creative minds behind Alibis, shedding light on the dedication and hard work that goes into making their music. Whether you’re an aspiring musician or just a fan of great tunes, there’s something in this episode for you.

Check out the full episode on Icon Presents to hear more about Rainy and Kris’s journey, their upcoming projects, and their thoughts on staying true to their artistic vision. And don’t forget to support them by following their journey on social media and keeping an ear out for their new single, “Sellout,” dropping next Friday.

August 23 2024

Katie Ferrara on Music, TV Placements, and Personal Growth

Exploring the Artistic Journey of Katie Ferrara on Icon Presents

At Icon Presents, we pride ourselves on featuring creatives who push boundaries, inspire others, and leave an indelible mark on their respective industries. In our latest podcast episode, host Antwon Haynes sits down with Katie Ferrara, a Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter whose soulful music and heartfelt lyrics have captivated audiences around the world.

From Street Performer to Global Artist: Katie Ferrara’s Musical Evolution

Katie Ferrara’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. Starting as a street performer in Los Angeles, Katie faced numerous challenges, from financial struggles to societal discouragement. Yet, her unwavering passion for music drove her to pursue her dreams, ultimately leading to performances on international stages and appearances on television.

In her conversation with Antwon, Katie delves into the early influences that shaped her musical style, including legendary artists like The Beatles, Joni Mitchell, and Christina Aguilera. She shares the pivotal moments that marked her transition from a hobbyist to a full-time artist, providing valuable insights for aspiring musicians who are on a similar path.

Navigating the Music Industry as an Independent Artist

Being an independent artist comes with its own set of challenges, and Katie Ferrara knows this all too well. Throughout the episode, she opens up about the realities of self-promotion, funding her projects, and the constant hustle required to make a name in the music industry. Her experiences offer a realistic perspective on the grit and determination needed to succeed without the backing of a major label.

Katie’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of staying true to one’s artistic vision. Her ability to connect with audiences on a deep, emotional level through her music is a reminder of why independent artists play such a vital role in the industry.

The Impact of COVID-19 and Embracing New Opportunities

The global pandemic has affected countless lives and industries, and for Katie, it brought significant changes to her career. With live gigs and tours being canceled, Katie had to adapt quickly, exploring new avenues such as teaching and podcasting. She discusses these shifts in detail, offering a glimpse into how she navigated the uncertainty of the pandemic while continuing to create and share her art.

The Future of Katie Ferrara: What’s Next?

Looking ahead, Katie Ferrara is excited about the future. She talks about her plans to release new music, collaborate with other artists, and continue pushing the boundaries of her creativity. Whether it’s through songwriting, performing, or exploring new mediums, Katie’s dedication to her craft is evident, and we can’t wait to see where her journey takes her next.

Tune In to Icon Presents with Katie Ferrara

This episode of Icon Presents is a must-listen for anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes of the music industry, the challenges of being an independent artist, and the power of perseverance. Antwon Haynes does a fantastic job of guiding the conversation, allowing Katie Ferrara’s story to unfold naturally and engagingly.

To hear more about Katie Ferrara’s journey and insights, tune in to the full episode on Icon Presents. Don’t forget to follow us on our social media channels to stay updated on future episodes featuring more incredible guests from the worlds of music, art, film, and beyond.

Whether you’re an aspiring artist or a fan of authentic, soulful music, Katie Ferrara’s story is sure to inspire. Join us at Icon Presents as we continue to explore the stories of creatives who are making their mark on the world, one project at a time.

July 13 2024

How Danielle Taylor Turned Her Music Dreams into Reality

Behind the Music: An In-Depth Conversation with Danielle Taylor on Icon Presents

In the latest episode of “Icon Presents,” host Antwon Haynes sits down with the talented singer-songwriter Danielle Taylor to explore the intersections of music, creativity, and entrepreneurship. As a multifaceted artist and the founder of her own record label, Danielle offers invaluable insights into the world of music and the challenges and triumphs that come with it. Here’s a detailed look at this captivating episode.

Launching a Record Label and Musical Beginnings

Danielle Taylor opens up about the inspiration behind her songs, including one that expresses a deep longing for time with a loved one. As she shares her journey of launching her record label, she emphasizes her desire for freedom and autonomy in her career. This segment also touches on the unique dynamic between Antwon Haynes and the other guests, showcasing their spontaneous and engaging conversations.

Danielle’s musical journey is nothing short of inspiring. From teaching herself to play the piano to forming a band and writing her own songs, she has navigated the industry with determination and passion. Her story of meeting a fellow musician through Craigslist, which led to a successful band career, highlights the unpredictable and exciting nature of the music world.

Supporting New Artists and Entrepreneurship

Antwon Haynes shares his extensive experience in audio production and his commitment to supporting new artists. His dedication to helping others achieve their music goals is evident, as he discusses the fulfillment he finds in lifting up emerging talents.

Danielle elaborates on her decision to start a record label at the beginning of the year, aiming to create an artist-friendly environment. Her collaboration with artists like Aaron O’Neill, whom she discovered at an open mic, exemplifies her dedication to nurturing talent and fostering creativity. The conversation also delves into her unique approach to the music business, prioritizing artist development and commission-based deals that align with her personal belief in the artists’ potential.

Artist Development and Industry Challenges

Danielle shares her insights on the importance of artist development and the business sense required to thrive in the music industry. She discusses the importance of vetting potential partners to avoid scams, drawing from her own experiences of being taken advantage of by a fake radio station owner. This segment is a candid reflection on the lessons learned and the resilience required to succeed.

Music Production and Collaboration

The conversation shifts to Danielle’s ongoing projects, including a 12-song record she is producing and writing herself. She speaks passionately about leveraging her strengths and weaknesses to offer affordable services to clients, and the value she places on collaboration. By working with her husband and other musicians, Danielle underscores the importance of trust and synergy in creating music.

Music Videos and Creative Vision

Antwon and Danielle wrap up their discussion by delving into the world of music videos. Antwon expresses his admiration for Danielle’s work, and she shares details about the creative process behind her videos, including her collaboration with Evan Blum. The mutual respect and support between the host and guest highlight the importance of community and collaboration in the arts.

Conclusion

This episode of “Icon Presents” with Danielle Taylor is a treasure trove of insights for anyone interested in the music industry, creativity, and entrepreneurship. Danielle’s journey from a self-taught musician to a record label founder is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. Whether you’re an aspiring artist or a seasoned professional, her story offers inspiration and practical advice to navigate the ever-evolving world of music. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the artistry and business acumen that drive success in the music industry.

June 21 2024

Topeka Clementine – Music Inspired by Heartbreak

Topeka Clementine: A Journey of Creativity, Music, and Overcoming Fear

Episode Summary:
In this captivating episode of the Icon Presents Podcast, host Antwon Haynes interviews the talented musician Topeka Clementine. They discuss Topeka’s new single “Breakfast for One,” his creative process, and the personal experiences that inspire his music. The conversation also delves into overcoming fear of rejection, dealing with criticism, and the importance of storytelling in music.

“Breakfast for One” and Its Inspiration:
Topeka Clementine opens up about the story behind his new single “Breakfast for One.” Inspired by a middle school crush who ghosted him, the song reflects Topeka’s ability to turn life experiences into art. He recounts seeing this old crush at a Halloween party, leading to a nervous reaction and an overprepared breakfast. This experience taught Topeka that even the most challenging situations can lead to valuable lessons and creative inspiration.

Songwriting and Creative Process:
Topeka describes his music as a blend of bedroom pop and indie pop, with a focus on harmonic complexity and an homage to Golden Age pop artists. He cites Lavie, Liana Flores, and No Vacation as current inspirations, appreciating their classical and mid-century pop influences. Topeka’s creative process involves transforming personal stories into music, using Logic Pro and Ableton Live for production.

Overcoming Fear of Rejection:
Antwon and Topeka discuss the importance of overcoming the fear of rejection in creative pursuits. Antwon shares his experience of reaching out to talented artists like Danielle and Ileana Flores for collaborations. He emphasizes the role of social media in connecting with potential guests and collaborators. Both Antwon and Topeka highlight the necessity of taking risks and building resilience in the face of rejection.

Self-Worth and Storytelling:
Topeka reflects on how music has helped him navigate moral dilemmas and find solace in challenging times. He shares his journey of grappling with self-worth and using storytelling through music as a means of expression and healing. Antwon adds his perspective on the importance of personal growth and self-awareness in creating meaningful art.

Music Production and Personal Growth:
Topeka shares his journey of learning music production on a MacBook Air using Logic, doing the entire production and mixing himself. He started with GarageBand and eventually transitioned to Logic, honing his skills along the way. Antwon discusses his experience with Logic and Pro Tools, highlighting the importance of adaptability and continuous learning in the creative industry.

Dealing with Criticism and Staying True to One’s Vision:
Antwon and Topeka address the challenges of dealing with criticism and maintaining one’s vision. Topeka shares strategies for respecting individual preferences and recognizing that taste is subjective. Antwon praises the success of Eric July’s comic book company, Reverse, despite initial criticism. They both emphasize the importance of staying pure and true to one’s creative vision.

Reflecting on Growth and Embracing New Sounds:
Topeka reflects on his growth and maturity in music, embracing complexity and exploring new sounds. Antwon reminisces about how his concerns as a teenager seem insignificant now that he’s 30 with a family. They both look back on their middle school and high school worries with endearment, appreciating how far they’ve come.

Future Projects and Celebrating Creativity:
Topeka Clementine shares his upcoming projects and plans for the future, highlighting the importance of celebrating his work and taking pride in his creative endeavors. Antwon encourages listeners to take risks and pursue their passions, emphasizing the importance of courage and opportunity in life.

Conclusion:
This episode of the Icon Presents Podcast offers a heartfelt look into Topeka Clementine’s creative journey, from the inspiration behind his music to overcoming personal challenges. Topeka’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of resilience, self-expression, and staying true to one’s vision. Stay tuned to Icon Presents for more engaging conversations and follow Topeka Clementine for updates on his latest projects.

Support Topeka Clementine by following him on social media and staying tuned for his upcoming music and creative endeavors.

June 7 2024

KEVINRAY’s Journey in Music and Entrepreneurship

KEVINRAY’s Journey of Creativity, Artistry, and Perseverance

Episode Summary:
In this inspiring episode of the Icon Presents Podcast, host Antwon Haynes sits down with the talented KEVINRAY to discuss his creative journey, the challenges he has faced, and his passion for various art forms. From performing a single from his album to sharing insights on fitness and mental well-being, KEVINRAY’s story is a testament to the power of creativity and perseverance.

Showcasing Creative Talent:
The episode kicks off with KEVINRAY performing a single from his album, showcasing his incredible talent and setting the stage for a deep dive into his creative journey. KEVINRAY shares his experiences of moving from Indiana to California, where he incorporated various art forms into his career, including dance and music.

Adapting and Supporting Fellow Creators:
Antwon and KEVINRAY discuss the importance of adaptability in the creative process and the value of learning new skills. KEVINRAY emphasizes the significance of supporting fellow creators and artists, fostering a community where everyone can thrive.

A 22-Year Creative Journey:
KEVINRAY reflects on his 22-year journey in the entertainment industry, filled with ups and downs. He highlights the importance of persistence and shares his decision to leave Indiana for California to pursue his dreams. Despite the challenges, KEVINRAY finds comfort in the duality of his hometown, appreciating both the familiarity and the changes.

Creating Music for Film and Overcoming Struggles:
One of the highlights of KEVINRAY’s career was creating music for the movie “Stomp the Yard,” including recording a bonus track for the soundtrack. He shares how his family and friends were thrilled to see him on BET during Christmas, even though they missed the initial airing of the promo piece. KEVINRAY discusses the creative struggles he has faced and the importance of staying true to his purpose.

The Role of Dance in KEVINRAY’s Life:
Dance has been a significant part of KEVINRAY’s life for years. He shares his love for dance, recounting past experiences, including breakdancing as a child and evolving as a dancer over time. KEVINRAY enjoys watching dance videos on social media, drawing inspiration from various dance styles.

Fitness, Nutrition, and Mental Well-Being:
KEVINRAY emphasizes the importance of fitness and nutrition in his life. He shares a humorous story about injuring himself while attempting a dance move from MTV and discusses his transformation from a small, scrawny kid to a bodybuilder. KEVINRAY and Antwon highlight the benefits of natural and organic foods, stressing the importance of healthy eating habits for overall well-being.

Personal Growth and Mental Health:
Antwon and KEVINRAY delve into the significance of personal growth and self-awareness. KEVINRAY shares how nutrition and self-love play a crucial role in his life, from preparing nutrient-dense meals to taking actions that promote mental and physical health. Antwon encourages listeners to support his work through social media, emphasizing its importance in creating positive change.

Conclusion:
This episode of the Icon Presents Podcast offers a profound look into KEVINRAY’s creative journey, highlighting his dedication to his craft and his commitment to personal growth. KEVINRAY’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and self-love in achieving one’s dreams. Stay tuned to Icon Presents for more engaging conversations and follow KEVINRAY for updates on his latest projects.

Support KEVINRAY by following him on social media and staying tuned for his upcoming music and creative endeavors.

May 31 2024

How A Pandemic Sparked A Rock Revolution

The Journey of “The Reckless” – From Pandemic Beginnings to Musical Aspirations

Episode Summary:

In this lively episode of the Icon Presents podcast, host Antwon Haynes sits down with members of the band “The Reckless” for an entertaining and insightful conversation. They dive into the band’s formation during the pandemic, explore their creative process, and discuss their dreams for the future in the music industry. From humorous banter to deep reflections on perseverance and creativity, this episode offers a well-rounded look at the band’s journey and their plans ahead.

Forming “The Reckless” During the Pandemic:

Lead singer Fritz founded “The Reckless” in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, turning his saved-up riffs and demos into a full-fledged vision. The band came together with the addition of drummer Jesse Noriega and bassist Frank Rodriguez. Forming a band during a global pandemic brought its own set of challenges, from finding the right musicians to securing rehearsal space. The band went through several lineup changes before settling on their current members.

Finding the Right Members:

Drummer Riku joined the band after stepping in for a show, with the understanding that he would be involved in the songwriting process. The search for a new guitarist led to the addition of a talented musician who impressed the band with his skills during a jam session in Oceanside. The discussion underscores the importance of finding the right chemistry and creative synergy within the band, ensuring everyone is on the same page musically.

Creative Process and New Projects:

The band’s creative process is all about experimentation. They play around with different versions of songs, adding elements like distortion to give their tracks a rock edge. They even put their own spin on a cover of “Sexy Back,” starting with inspiration from radio hits and evolving it into something uniquely theirs. Their commitment to creativity shines through as they continually experiment and hone their sound.

Musical Goals and Social Media Presence:

“The Reckless” has set both short-term and long-term goals, focusing on growing their social media presence and enhancing the quality of their music. Antwon and the band chat about their ambitions of playing sold-out shows and becoming as big as they possibly can. They emphasize the importance of going all-in on a project and taking pride in their work, aiming to leave a lasting mark on the music industry.

Perseverance in the Music Industry:

Antwon and the band members open up about facing the fear of failure and finding success through hard work and perseverance. They touch on the decentralized nature of today’s creative industries, like Hollywood and music, which offers creators more power and control over their work. The band encourages others to start small, learn from their mistakes, and focus on the positive feedback to keep improving their craft.

Overcoming Challenges and Networking:

One band member shares a story about playing a show at a venue with poor sound quality, yet still managing to network and gain new opportunities from it. This experience highlights the importance of perseverance and making the most of every opportunity, no matter the obstacles.

Follow “The Reckless” for Updates:

Keep up with “The Reckless” on Instagram for updates, merch sales, and news about their upcoming projects. Their journey from pandemic beginnings to setting ambitious goals showcases their dedication and passion for music.

Conclusion:

This episode of the Icon Presents podcast gives a detailed look at the journey of “The Reckless,” from their pandemic-era formation to their creative process and future plans. Their story is a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and collaboration in the music industry. Be sure to tune in to Icon Presents for more engaging conversations, and follow “The Reckless” on Instagram to stay updated on their latest work.

Support “The Reckless” by following them on Instagram and staying connected with their music and merchandise.