We recently connected with Carlton Rashad and have shared our conversation below.

Carlton, appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.

I’d always wanted to be a music artist! I remember watching Michael Jackson when I was a child, thinking I want to be like him. Then Chris Brown came onto the music scene, then I really knew that this is what I wanted to do. And not to mention being a huge fan of Beyoncé – following her journey really inspired me!

So, In 2014, I formed a group with my cousin and two of our fellow classmates to perform for an Alumni Showcase at our Alma Mater, Paseo Academy of Fine & Performing Arts. We did so well!! So, from there, we decided to pursue a career together. We had a few changes along the way… but, the rest has kind of been history. We released 2 projects together (2016 &2018) – and I since have been evolving!

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Carlton Rashad McCormick, professionally I go by my first and middle name, Carlton Rashad. I started singing in church at a very young age. Eventually I took over the music department for my family church, at age 19.

I sang for a variety of school, church and community functions. I toured the St. Louis school system when I was in elementary school! My music teacher, the late Mr. Shawn Thompson believed in me so much, he pushed me to really appreciating the art of music.

After graduating high school, I performed in the group, Versetile with my cousin, Mitchell aka “SliKC” consistently for 5+ years or so. I went on to win a talent completion called “GameTime” in 2019, and immediately began working on my first project entitled “Dear Future Love” – in the process of working on the project, the world shut down, haha, but it didn’t stop us from continuing to create! And the result was my debut single, “Vibe” in February of 2021! Then my album, in July of 2021! I have since released my new music, which has been very well received!

I have performed the National Anthem for Sporting Kansas City, KC Current and the Kansas City Royals!

I perform regularly across the Greater Kansas City & surrounding areas. It’s been an excited and interesting ride. Haha.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

Non-creatives don’t really see the behind the scenes work, and understand what it really takes to get to the stage or even release music. There’s a lot of stress, concern, frustration, sweat and tears that go into it. When you have dreams, visions, and goals but don’t necessarily know how to achieve those things because resources, most times financial, may not be as accessible. There’s a lot of hard work, discipline, and sacrifice that goes into building a sustainable career.

However, because we love what we to do, we continue to work hard and press and hope for the best results.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My biggest goals is create a musical path for myself that my nephews and nieces could also follow, should they choose to follow my career. I want to create great music that transcends and outlive me!

I want my shows to become memorable to all that attend, and inspire others to aspire higher like me.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imcarltonrashad?igsh=YjB5N3JjbTN6aHUx&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carltonrashad?mibextid=LQQJ4d
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@carltonrashadmusic?si=6ysQCOOXa6VPr19i