We had the good fortune of connecting with Bakari Vashon and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Bakari, alright, let’s jump in with a deep one – what’s you’re definition for success?
I defined success as being able to provide and take care of your family doing what you love. Thats true success in my eyes.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m Songwriter and Artist. I really like just saying Musician because of my ability to play an instrument such as drums. That’s how it all started in my local church for me. Being introduced to music from gospel to soul in my upbringing was key point to me following my dreams. It would be no sooner than taking all of my teenage years for me to know I wanted to be Musican. On a summer trip to Atlanta from Florida to visit a close cousin introduced me to the one and only Jazz Drummer and Activist Max Roach as a young drummer meant everything to me. Fast forward to my senior year in High School I put together a Hip Hop group called TYGER HILL. Who gained regional success touring and opening for greats like OutKast, Twista, Lil Jon, Ti, T-Pain to say the least. This was my journey that led me to take my craft seriously. And it made me also want to learn more about this business that I wanted to be apart of. With that note I was blessed to have the Dr. of Funk George Clinton as a musical mentor. It’s truly amazing and honor to take first hand gems from such a legend. Putting all those elements together with music that I feel eco and express how I see life is my gift to the people. I’m able to create write and publish great material and hopefully help someone along the way
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Actually I’m kind of a lay back kind of guy. But for my fans and friends I turn up! So if ever visiting in Atlanta we would definitely practice safe distance and wear our masks lol And go check out Slutty Vegans for brunch do some downtown shopping at various locations hip of course. Then go check out the Trap Museum and even scroll by hot spots that were sets for poplar tv shows. That’s what my friends always say. Oh can’t forget Tyler Perry studios is definitely a must for a tour walk through. And we can end the weekend with lunch at Poor Calvins downtown Atlanta. I love the food there. The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d definitely have to shout out my best friend and beautiful wife for always keeping me encouraged and focused even when it gets really tough.
Instagram: @bakarivashon
Facebook: Bakari Hines/ Bakari Vashon