Today we’d like to introduce you to Dev11n

Hi Dev11n, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.

Hey! Thank you for this opportunity to reconnect. For those who don’t know me, I’m dev11n, a singer, songwriter, and Hip Hop lyricist born and raised in Buffalo, NY. My music blends smooth, 90s RnB-influenced melodies with thought-provoking lyrics, reflecting life as I’ve come to see it. Creating music has always been a part of who I am, and I love using it to inspire and empower others.

So far, I’ve released three EPs—#The11thHour, #One, and Duality—and I’ve been fortunate to share my music on both national and international stages. In addition to being an artist, I’m a passionate teaching artist, sharing my love for music and the arts with the next generation of creatives. Mentoring independent artists and emerging entrepreneurs through my company, Muziqly Devine Entertainment, is a way for me to give back. I curate events, provide guidance, and help others bring their creative visions to life. In 2017, I founded Queen City Live, a live art exhibition series that celebrates creative women across all forms of art, from visual and performance to film.

At the core of everything I do—whether performing, teaching, or curating events—is a desire to uplift, inspire, and connect with others. I want my work to not only resonate with people but also leave a lasting impact that encourages others to pursue their dreams unapologetically.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?

I’ve faced many challenges on my journey. Self-doubt, fear, financial challenges and the challenge of maintaining consistency through it all. I’ve learned that it doesn’t matter the obstacle, it can be overcome as long as I remember why I am pursuing my goals and how many obstacles I’ve already overcome to get to this point.

As a child, I was so shy and self-conscious that I never thought I would be able to have any kind of creative career in the music industry. So to be where I am now and to have accomplished all that I have, it’s a constant reminder that there are no limitations.

Whether it’s not having the money, or not having help or not feeling motivated, there are ways to address all of our challenges and it starts with being kind to ourselves. It’s easy to be our biggest critic and sometimes that is helpful. Holding ourselves accountable and striving to be as great as we can without slacking can propel us toward our purpose. But even in the midst of being accountable, it’s equally as important to be kind to ourselves.

I give myself credit for anything I accomplish, big or small. I celebrate my victories and I talk to myself as I would a friend or loved one. I encourage myself when I’m feeling challenged. I remind myself of where I started and what a privilege it is to be where I am now. I give myself grace and allow myself down time when I know I need it. And during those moments of relaxation, I make sure I am truly relaxed and not just thinking of all the things that still need to be done.

By being kind and loving to myself it allows me to trust myself and feel more empowered when I am pushing towards a goal. By having a healthy balance of ambition and grace, I am able to keep my life in perspective and never think too far ahead or look too far behind. I strive to remain rooted in the present moment and to take care of myself so that my cup is always full enough to share with others when I can.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?

My most recent EP, Duality is a perfect example of how I talk to myself and what I’ve overcome. Each of the three songs provide a glimpse into my fears, doubts and insecurities while also allowing the listener to hear how my higher-self is always present in my mind and reminding me of who I am and how powerful I am to overcome and continue to press on.

Duality – https://ampl.ink/dev11n_Duality

My podcast, Black Cookie Radio is another outlet through which I am able to express myself and shine the light on those who inspire me. I am excited to relaunch my podcast this fall and look forward to interviewing guests and having conversations about the artistic journey, particularly for women of color who identify as anything other than heterosexual. These are the conversations I would have loved to hear when I was finding my way. And with anything that I do, I want to inspire the younger generation to be more accepting of themselves and fearless with their self-expression.

What matters most to you?

What matters most to me is being authentic, genuine, loving, inspiring and helpful. That to me is my purpose. Making the world a little brighter and better by being here. Sharing my knowledge and insight in order to help someone else. Using my resources to provide opportunities like the ones others have provided for me. Staying true to myself and conducting myself and my business in a way that I can always be proud of. When I’m no longer here, I want people to remember me as someone who made a positive difference. It doesn’t have to be the most grand or extravagant production for it to affect people’s lives in a powerful way. Anything that I do, whether it’s music, events, or a regular conversation, I enjoy making people smile, think bigger and believe in themselves. “The highest human act is to inspire.” That’s what matters most to me.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.dev11n.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_dev11n/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dev11n/
• Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/_dev11n/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3Hz7gzwJdmVS-n65NNvCmg
• Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/dev11n

Image Credits

Photo Credits

Filmtastic Films @filmtasticfilmsproduction
Ryan Hampton @thatcanongoboom
Alex Rogers @alexrogersstudio