We had the good fortune of connecting with Cello/Phn and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Cello/Phn, what is the most important factor behind your success?
Success, in my opinion, should be self-assessed; comparing our success to others may hinder our happiness. When it comes to my brand, image, and message, success is reflected when fans share their interpretations of my music. Their interest in learning the backstory, streaming at 3 am, as if these aren’t some of the most vulnerable stories I’ve penned down, holds significance for me. This connection/success is what truly matters to me.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I have always had a passion for music and writing. Looking back, I used to ask for CDs as gifts, rent CDs from the library, and participate in the band/choir. I took pleasure in reading books and watching the words transform into vivid images in my mind. There is a desire within me to be heard. Some friends jokingly say, “You enjoy hearing yourself speak.” Ha ha, but there are countless beautiful stories swirling around in my mind waiting to be shared. My musical journey began professionally when I felt stifled during my military service, unable to express myself openly. I was filled with emotions that I couldn’t outwardly display; this is how CelloPhane was born. It provided a space where I could pour out those pent-up feelings without revealing my identity, serving as both a shield and a sanctuary. I never imagined that people would connect with my music, attend my performances, or seek me out to represent their brands or ideologies, but here we are. The most thrilling part of this journey has been people wanting to engage with the music and its message. It’s challenging to persuade individuals to believe in causes beyond their own lives, but somehow, I’ve done it. Currently, I grapple with where I belong in the music world, what’s excessive, and what’s insufficient. I admire incredible role models, and I understand that music must find its natural place rather than be coerced. I aim to convey through my brand that kindness, vulnerability, and transparency remain strong traits to have. Stay true to yourself; you are meant to make a difference, and conforming to the world will only lead to emptiness and loss which we don’t need more of.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
It really depends on their vibe, but honestly, I’m a good time; I’m not a foodie so that food would be the last of my concerns. I think just showing them around the city for the most part, Krog Market is always a good place to bring someone; it’s a cute hub for food and close to the belt line. They have Freds, which has amazing Korean ribeye cheesesteaks, and you cool down the heat from the sub with Jenni’s ice cream. I think what would be next, depending on the day of the week, is Piedmont, which is vibrant on Sunday; it’s kind of like being at the mall on the weekend when you were in high school; many cuties are out, haha. Next would be obviously a spot to smoke hookah because are you really in Atlanta if you don’t? I’m a big fan of Thai food, so I would also bring them to hawkers on the Belt Line. My nightlife depends, but I love dancing, so if anyone is reading this and wondering how to capture my heart?? Ask me out dancing; the spot changes up because there’s no local spot for the vibes I love. I downloaded the Shotgun app, which keeps me updated with DJs performing rooftop dancing ordeals. If i was up to me we would be doing something active ha ha.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to extend a heartfelt shoutout to everyone who has embraced me for who I truly am. I truly believe that without these individuals in my life, I wouldn’t be the person I am today. Embracing your authentic self leads to a unique journey of self-discovery, free from external influences. To those who have supported me, thank you from the bottom of my heart. You know who you are, with love and transparency- Cello

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cellowphane?igsh=cjY5dXRvM2I0aWk5

Twitter: https://x.com/cellowphane?s=21

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@cellowphane?si=281AAZ06o6cIU4h3

Image Credits
Wisdom Warner

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