We had the good fortune of connecting with Hamilton Hayes and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Hamilton, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
I think something a lot of creatives overlook is a balance between art for-profit versus art for yourself. When grinding at a young age in a creative field I would say 10 times out of 10 you’re going to be working with something you’re passionate about – something that brings you joy as an individual. And when you’re young and not making money and focusing on getting good at that passion you tend to do all of your work for yourself. But as you grow up and become better and start taking on clients it can become harder and harder to find time to express yourself just for you. For me, a major key to sustaining my balance from my art is asking myself one question when I start to have that feeling of wanting to create something. I ask myself “do I need this or does the world need this?” And usually, when I answer that question I find myself enjoying my art for myself much more often. Everybody is different but I think exploring your own boundaries is essential in finding your optimum balance. Everything you create does not need to be monetized.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a musician and YouTuber who documents my life as well as review new music every week. I love my job because I get to be my most honest self and the community that we’ve built has always been so excepting of my quirks. I started making cover videos when I was in college and then I transitioned to music reviews a few years later and nowadays I really just post whatever I want. It definitely wasn’t easy and I definitely don’t make a ton of money from it but I have learned to supplement my income in other forms in order to prioritize my overall happiness and mental health. I’m still learning a lot of lessons so I don’t want to get too preachy, but if I could give a young creative some advice I would say really find out why you do what you do. Find multiple meanings behind your art, as you grow older you will learn to appreciate each piece differently due to the passing of time.
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.
I’ve always loved Ponce and Little Five for walking around and shopping. As for food, Jinya is unreal as well as Haddie B’s Hot Chicken.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to give a huge shoutout to my fiance Angela for keeping me grounded and always helping me see the big picture. Another massive shoutout goes to my brother Hiroki – he always makes sure I’m on top of my creative game no matter what’s going on in my personal life.
Instagram: instagram.com/hthaze
Twitter: twitter.com/hthaze
Youtube: youtube.com/c/HamiltonTroyHayes
Other: patreon.com/hthaze Spotify & Apple Music: HTHAZE
Image Credits
Artimio Black Hiroki Okura