We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Caylen Cara. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Caylen below.

Caylen, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

From a young age, surrounded by a family deeply rooted in the arts, I discovered my passion for performance. Inspired by grandfather’s traveling jazz music career and nurtured by mother’s early voice lessons, I knew from the age of three that this was my calling. Studying Jazz and Musical Theatre, I furthered my craft, eventually earning a Bachelor’s degree in Performing Arts from New Jersey City University.

Caylen, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

During my adolescence, I found inspiration in classic movies like “Funny Girl,” “Phantom of The Opera,” “Singing In The Rain,” and “My Fair Lady.” Characters such as Fanny Brice, Cosmo Brown, and Audrey Hepburn deeply influenced me, sparking a desire to evoke emotions through performance. I began my journey early, receiving voice lessons from my mother at the age of three.

At just four years old, I had my first solo in “You Can’t Imagine” Arch the Angel, setting the stage for creativity. My mother immersed me in various forms of artistry, including dance classes at Ms. Hugettes, Wells fargo Jazz for Teens , and local city productions, while also having piano, guitar, and alto saxophone lessons.

In high school, I furthered my musical pursuits by joining the BHS jazz small band for vocals and alto saxophone, Symphony for alto saxophone, and Honors classical guitar. However, it was a dedicated summer in my college years, of intensive music learning, with 140 hours of rehearsal per month, that revealed my dedication to my craft.

I am actively involved in a diverse range of creative endeavors, incorporating vocal performances, acting in films, stage management for productions, Creatively Directing productions, and freelancing as a hair designer for magazines.

What sets me apart as an artist is the depth of personal experience I bring to my craft. Music has been my refuge through both joyous and challenging times, serving as a powerful outlet for expression. My primary goal in performing is to connect with others, to amplify unheard voices, and to remind everyone of the importance of their unique perspectives. Ultimately, my performances serve as platforms for storytelling, community building, and empowerment, emphasizing that every voice, including mine, contributes to the collective narrative of humanity.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

One aspect that might be difficult for non-creatives to understand is the concept of a livable wage. While some may see creative work as a passion or hobby, for many of us, it’s our livelihood. We’re not just pursuing our dreams; we’re trying to make ends meet and support ourselves financially. However, the perception that creative work is somehow less deserving of fair compensation can lead to frustration and disappointment. Additionally, the creative industry is often plagued by a culture of exploitation, where artists are expected to work for exposure or experience rather than fair pay. This can create a cycle of undervaluation and economic insecurity, making it even more challenging for creatives to demand the compensation they deserve.
It is essential for non-creatives to recognize the value of creative work and the importance of fair compensation. By understanding the struggles that creatives face in securing a livable wage, we can work together to create a more equitable and supportive environment for all artists.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

One significant lesson I had to unlearn was the idea that I needed to conform to others’ expectations in order to be accepted or successful. Growing up, I often felt pressure to fit into certain molds or to suppress aspects of myself that didn’t align with societal norms. However, as I matured, I realized that embracing my authentic self is not only liberating but also essential for genuine fulfillment. This realization lies in a journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance. I came to understand that true happiness comes from embracing my unique identity, quirks, and all, rather than striving to meet external standards of perfection or conformity. This shift in mindset didn’t come without its challenges. There were moments of self-doubt and fear of judgment, but I learned to silence those voices and trust in my own authenticity.
I began to express myself more freely, whether through my art, my relationships, or my personal style, without fear of judgment or rejection. I had to unlearn that being unapologetically myself is not selfish or disrespectful to others; rather, it’s an act of self-love and empowerment that allows me to show up fully in the world. By embracing my authentic self, I’ve not only found greater inner peace but also deeper connections with those around me who appreciate me for who I truly am.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caylencara.music?igsh=MW55NnZhZGhmMmVsaQ==
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