Meet Bryan “Harvest Blaque” Hancock: Hip-Hop/Spoken Word Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Bryan “Harvest Blaque” Hancock and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Bryan “Harvest Blaque”, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Being an artist I feel like I have something to say and it was time for me to have the courage to share who I was and why my time is now. It is my belief that our gifts are the essential key to unlocking our purpose and can build a life that is even greater than what we imagine. To be a musician and a writer has always been my passion and with the release of my new album “The Mind Scrub”, I am truly humbled to see the fruits of my labor grow, enlighten, and transform. Belief that whatever I put my mind to was the process for starting my business and if I fail, I accept it as part of the process and rise above.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As an artist I love to share my story, how I evolve and what I’ve leaned. Nina Simone says “An artist’s duty, as far as I’m concerned, is to reflect the times. I think that is true of painters, sculptors, poets, musicians. As far as I’m concerned, it’s their choice, but I CHOOSE to reflect the times and situations in which I find myself. That, to me, is my duty”. I also feel like it’s my duty and it is a privilege to be here and have people eager to listen. What sets me apart is the fact that some artist worry about being relevant and acceptance. When I listen to some musicians that are out now I am not moved by what they are doing. I don’t knock anyone’s hustle but I rarely listen to radio anymore simply because some of the music just doesn’t speak to me. I do have mainstream artist that I enjoy like Anderson Paak, The Black Pumas, Kendrick Lamar, TOBE NWIGWE, J.Cole, Big Sean, Da Baby etc. But sometimes the excessive false bravado and fast living music doesn’t inspire me and if I don’t feel it I can’t pretend to. It took a lot of work getting this far especially living in an area that is mostly know for folk, bluegrass, and country. I feel like my hometown is still searching for identity that only can be truly found by truly embracing different cultures beyond stereotypical terms. We are top ten nationally for most segregated cities so I feel it’s important to play my part in bridging the gap. We need more outlets for people of color and it takes stepping out of our comfort zone to truly unlock what we’ve been missing. I want the world to know that I am a work in progress and as I grow I hope you grow with me. I am more than a brand, I am a man with flaws searching imperfection to be great. I write music from my heart and the truth is there and I planning on growing and evolving with purpose. My New Album “The Mind Scrub” is available to stream and buy on all platforms and it details my evolution.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
It has been my dream to go to Stankonia Studios and really get immersed in the funk. I am not from Atlanta but the last time I was there for a wedding , the people of Atlanta showed me so much love and hospitality. I hope to get back soon and take in more of your culture.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to thank my Boys& Girl’s club family here in Roanoke, Virginia where I’ve worked for the past 6 months. The kids at the club truly inspire and motivate me to continue to be child-like and not childish. My family & circle of close friends who lifted me up in my darkest season and cleared a path for me and who continue to love me for me. My Jefferson Center peeps with my music lab Hip-Hop 101 class!!! Jordan Harman is the real deal!!!!! My band who includes RoseMary St. Jaques, Bill Goodwin, Evan Goodwin, and Nathan Paxton. My Soul Sessions Roanoke Poetry staff and family who continue to evolve and break stereotypes. Bishop Kevin L. McNeil for his wisdom and guidance who reminded me about what it means to accept God’s love and to be lifted. My wonderful publicist, Manager, and friend Carla Brindle who is tough as nails and fought to keep me going on days that I wanted to quit. Also, to my Dearest “Sway” Donyea for seeing me and loving me unconditionally. Much love to all of the readers and the people who continue to listen to the music.

Website: http://officalharvestblaque.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harvestblaque/

Linkedin: N/A

Twitter: @harvblaque

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HarvestBlaque

Yelp: N/A

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLOZXO4jQhCyYAmlSEtVJfw

Other: “Blood In The Water” offical video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gxyHvwkDlXE

Image Credits
Jenna Decker, Adam Daniel