We had the good fortune of connecting with HoneyCoatedMusic . and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi HoneyCoatedMusic, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Looking back over the journey to now, I realize that I took so many risks to be here. After graduating from North Carolina A&T State University, I decided to move to Atlanta to pursue a career as a singer. I never really wanted to be anything else and I didn’t choose this dream, it chose me. I tried to run away from it many times before the day I actually planned to move. So much so that I knew God must’ve had a plan for me and that’s why I could never let it go. I decided it was worth it to take the risk. I was working two jobs at the time, so I saved every spare penny I had, and packed up to move in a matter of two months.
I had no family, no job, no connections waiting on me in atlanta. Only faith to carry me here. It was a risk, but I had to see what I was made of. Three years later, I’m still in atlanta, doing what I love. I sing often, I’m working on my first project, completely written by me, and I’ve got a network of people, whom I now consider my Atlanta family.
Making music is a dream, but during covid it has also been a big risk. Constantly stepping out and risking exposure in order to pursue a dream that many would deem unattainable.
Every time we leave the house it’s a risk. You never know what’s out there, but we take that chance due to obligation or desire. I craved the stage, but my safety net didn’t have the tools I needed to become who I needed to be. I had to take a leap of faith and see what else the world had for me. I thank God everyday for the courage that took. Overall i’m thankful that I didn’t let the fear of things keep me from taking risks that put me in the position I am in today. Im forever grateful and plan to keep on jumping and taking risks for my future.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I think when I first started writing music it was always about expressing the pain I felt. Writing was an outlet, that started with short stories, that let me get my feelings out without judgment. I started writing songs at 8, but the first one that got people’s attention was Carolina Roses. It was an ode and farewell to Home, because I was moving to Atlanta, and people really showed it a lot of love. It was like a confirmation for me that I was on the right track. Three years later, I’m 26 years old and I feel like I’m officially a grown woman, you know? I wanted to talk about some topics that showed people how I was starting to feel on the inside. I’ve learned not to rest on my talent, because music is hard work. It’s competitive, but at the same time, it’s love and family. My brand is grown up and fun. Sexy and cool. Sweet and savory. My music is sensual, it’s confident, it’s everything I’ve always wanted to be.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
For a good time and a good view, we would go to Ponce City Market. Do a little browsing and shopping before going up to the rooftop to play some games and get drinks. Then, grab a bite to eat at 9 Mile Station and catch the view.
We could go get some sun at Piedmont park or go to Kat’s Cafe, because they have live music and bomb ass pizza!
Gallery 992 is like a second home at this point. All of my friends hosts events there! I would definitely want to show them off and introduce my visitor to some good vibes and music.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Shoutout to God for being a protector and confidante through all of the many leaps of faith ive taken along the way.
To my mom for encouraging every move I make. She stands behind me even when she doesn’t quite understand where I’m going and trusts that I know what I’m doing, even though sometimes I dont.
To my friends for pushing me and telling me when I’m slacking.
To The Alchemist, for being one of the best books about encouraging and embracing the journey.
and to every person who has every tuned in to hear what I had to say.
Thank you so much!
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Image Credits
@maylink.studios @cityslicka @bosalanova