Meet Erica Papillion-Posey: Vocalist | Songwriter | Author

We had the good fortune of connecting with Erica Papillion-Posey and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Erica, why did you pursue a creative career?
The music arts have always appealed to me at an innate, cellular level. As a young girl singing in my bedroom mirror, boa around my neck with a brush that doubled as a microphone, I knew, categorically, that I was a creative and destined for a career in an industry where I could express myself. I’ve always had an affinity for words and music. Being a jazz and classically trained vocalist, without question, affords me the opportunity to be intimately linked with languages/linguistics.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?

Professionally, my career has been fruitful and gratifying but, yes, quite hectic. To have accomplished so much, often without the support of parents and family -at large- has been a feat and undertaking of its own. In the United States, the arts and those that choose careers in the arts are treated as hobbies/hobbyists and are not seen as serious or viable career paths. Having a Master of Music degree with emphasis in Vocal Performance in opera and jazz, a Bachelor of Music, voice, and a Bachelor of Business Management has given me the skill set(s) and training to direct and manage my own indie record label and brand, all while executively producing and writing each of my 3 records | -The Standard Reimagined (2015) -From the DEEP (2017) and -Better Angels (2019/2020) *purchase where all music sold or visit | epapillionposey.com/shopmusic. Additionally, I self-published my first book of poetry and prose | -Musings from the Mind of a Mezzo: passion, pain and plight (2015). Finally, I launched my current passion project at the conclusion of Women’s History Month | The VOCALIST Series by EPP, a line of affordable, lifestyle products: jewelry, loungewear and accessories, specifically for the trained, modern vocalists, on the go! *new product line, visit | epapillionposey.com/shopvocalistseries.

Many people don’t realize that if properly structured, you can make a living both on and off the stage. I’m proud that I’ve been able to do that with integrity and without compromising my dignity or moral compass, particularly in the age and sway of social media. My brand and I are one and the same so we’re both ever evolving in a way that’s ethically sound. We should always be in a pattern of growth. But at this moment, I’m elated with my current trajectory. I’m proud of most of my choices, thus far, and grateful for the mistakes and failures, too. *for addtl historical and creative, background information, please visit | epapillionposey.com/about

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well, as a southern girl (originally from Louisiana), cuisine is a no brainer. I’m a great cook and without a doubt, I would be doing the cooking for the week. Homemade is always better when you’re in the hands of a great cook! As for places to go things to do | *the opera/ the theatre *best jazz club or festival *an art exhibit/museum *spoken word night *hang out at the mall for some shopping. Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost, I’d have to give immense thanks and gratitude to my husband, Isadell “Buster” Posey for being my rock, my ace and biggest cheerleader without whom my life as a creative would be more stressful. Additionally, since graduate school, there have been two people instrumental in ensuring that I could travel, comfortably, participate in required auditions, competitions, voice lessons, productions etc., necessary to grow my career as a serious, seasoned vocalist. Don Leach and Phyllis Ward, additional gratitude and regards to you both. Mr. Leach, in particular, has become much more than a sponsor but a dear family friend and mentor. I also extend warm thanks to every person that has supported me in purchasing a ticket to my shows, attended my fundraisers to procure funds for my album recordings and my first book or just extending support in spirit. Every hand and heart matters.

Website: epapillionposey.com

Instagram: /epapillionposey

Twitter: epapillionposey

Facebook: /ericapapillionposey (artist pg)

Youtube: /ericapapillionposey

Image Credits
Eldeen Annette Photography