We were lucky to catch up with Marcus Askew recently and have shared our conversation below.

Marcus, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Earning a full time living from one’s creative career can be incredibly difficult. Have you been able to do so and if so, can you share some of the key parts of your journey and any important advice or lessons that might help creatives who haven’t been able to yet?

Certainly! Here’s a comprehensive answer to that interview question:

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Yes, I have been able to earn a full-time living from my creative work. The journey to achieving this was multifaceted and required persistence, strategic planning, and adaptability. It was not an overnight success but a gradual process that involved several key steps and milestones.

### The Journey

**1. Early Passion and Skills Development**
From a young age, I had a passion for creative pursuits, be it writing, designing, or any other form of artistic expression. I invested a lot of time in honing my skills through formal education and self-study. For instance, I took various online courses, attended workshops, and constantly practiced my craft.

**2. Building a Portfolio**
One of the critical early steps was building a portfolio. I worked on personal projects and volunteered for non-profits and small businesses to create a body of work that I could showcase. This portfolio was crucial when approaching potential clients and employers.

**3. Networking and Relationships**
Networking played a vital role. I attended industry events, joined creative communities both online and offline, and connected with other professionals. These relationships often led to freelance opportunities, collaborations, and referrals.

**4. Freelance to Full-Time**
Initially, I started with freelance work while holding a part-time job. This period was challenging but essential. It allowed me to build a client base and reputation without the pressure of relying solely on creative work for income. Over time, as my client base grew and projects became more consistent, I transitioned to full-time creative work.

**5. Diversifying Income Streams**
To ensure stability, I diversified my income streams. Apart from client work, I explored other avenues such as selling digital products, offering workshops, and creating content for platforms like YouTube and Patreon. This diversification not only provided financial stability but also expanded my reach and brand.

**6. Strategic Marketing and Branding**
A significant milestone was developing a personal brand. I invested in a professional website, active social media presence, and content marketing. By consistently sharing valuable content and engaging with my audience, I was able to attract more clients and opportunities.

**7. Continuous Learning and Adaptation**
The creative industry is ever-evolving, and staying relevant requires continuous learning. I regularly update my skills, follow industry trends, and adapt to new tools and platforms. This proactive approach has kept my work in demand.

### Was It Like That from Day One?

No, it was not like that from day one. The journey was gradual, with many challenges and learning experiences along the way. There were times of uncertainty and financial strain, but perseverance and adaptability helped me navigate through them.

### Major Steps and Milestones

– **Building a Solid Portfolio**: Gave credibility and showcased my skills.
– **Networking**: Opened doors to opportunities and collaborations.
– **Transitioning to Full-Time**: Required a critical mass of consistent work and clients.
– **Diversifying Income**: Ensured financial stability and growth.
– **Branding and Marketing**: Increased visibility and attracted more clients.

### Could I Have Sped Up the Process?

Knowing what I know now, I could have potentially sped up the process by:

– **Earlier Focus on Branding**: Establishing a strong personal brand sooner could have accelerated client acquisition.
– **Investing in Marketing**: Allocating more resources to marketing and advertising early on could have expanded my reach faster.
– **Seeking Mentorship**: Having a mentor in the industry might have provided guidance and opened doors more quickly.

However, every step and misstep contributed to my growth and understanding of the industry, so I value the journey as it unfolded.

Marcus, 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?

Got it! Let’s incorporate that achievement into your response.

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I’m Marcus Askew, and I’m a passionate musician and music producer. My journey into the world of music began at a very young age when I first started playing the piano. Growing up in a household filled with diverse music genres, I was always surrounded by melodies and rhythms that inspired me. By the time I was a teenager, I was already composing my own music and experimenting with different sounds.

My formal education in music began in church, where I had the best ear training possible. This foundation was crucial in developing my musical abilities. I then went on to attend Roosevelt Performing Arts School for junior high, followed by Milwaukee High School of the Arts, with a focus on jazz piano. These experiences provided me with a solid foundation in both the technical and creative aspects of music production. However, what truly shaped my career was the hands-on experience I gained working with local bands and artists, helping them bring their musical visions to life.

I specialize in producing a wide range of musical genres, including pop, rock, hip-hop, and electronic. My services include full-scale music production, mixing and mastering, sound design, and composition. Whether it’s crafting a catchy hook, layering complex harmonies, or perfecting the final mix, my goal is always to create music that resonates with listeners on a deep level.

One of the unique aspects of my approach is my commitment to understanding the artist’s vision. I believe that the best music is born from genuine collaboration, where the producer and artist work closely to create something truly special. My clients appreciate my attention to detail, my technical expertise, and my ability to translate their ideas into polished, professional tracks.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with a diverse range of artists, from emerging talents to established names. One of my proudest moments was producing the theme song for the hit TV show **R&B Divas**, which aired on TV One. This project not only showcased my technical skills but also demonstrated my ability to connect with the artist’s vision and bring it to life in a way that resonated with a wide audience.

What sets me apart from others in the industry is my versatility and my dedication to continuous learning. The music industry is always evolving, and I make it a point to stay updated with the latest trends and technologies. This allows me to offer my clients cutting-edge production techniques and innovative soundscapes that stand out in today’s competitive market.

For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want you to know that my work is driven by passion and a love for music. Every project I take on is a new opportunity to create something unique and meaningful. I’m always excited to collaborate with artists who are passionate about their craft and eager to push the boundaries of their creativity.

Thank you for taking the time to learn about my journey and my work. I look forward to continuing to make music that inspires and connects people across the globe.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

My faith and my family

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

Being able to make something beautiful out of absolutely nothing.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Marcus_Churchboi