Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Bakari Jakson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Bakari, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

We’ve taken an enormous risk to develop and invest in Ozone. Seeing as how this is not just a label, but in fact an entire shift in culture, we know this goal of ours is no easy feat. We don’t expect to get anywhere fast, but the impact that we’re initiating is one that will transcend generations. Being artists of African descent, we’re dedicated to paying tribute to the roots of all popular music, which can usually be traced back to African culture.

Bakari, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

In the heart of contemporary artistic expression, a collective of six artists of African descent has emerged, breathing new life into the cultural landscape. Known as Ozone Creations, this dynamic media collective is a testament to the richness and diversity of black creativity. Through their collaborative efforts, they celebrate the multifaceted nature of their black identity, rooted in the rich tapestry of African heritage.

At the core of Ozone Creations’ ethos lies a profound respect for the diverse African roots of popular music. Each member brings a unique perspective and skillset to the collective, contributing to a vibrant mosaic of artistic expression. From visual art to music production, from dance to spoken word, Ozone Creations weaves together various mediums to create powerful narratives that resonate with audiences worldwide.

Crucially, Ozone Creations prioritizes collaboration over competition. In a world often characterized by individualism and rivalry, they stand as a beacon of unity and solidarity. By amplifying each other’s voices and talents, they cultivate an environment where creativity flourishes, both within the collective and beyond its borders.

The collective firmly believes that their vision aligns with the ethos of the label they are submitting to. They see their work as a reflection of the label’s values and aspirations, and they are eager to explore opportunities for partnership and collaboration. For Ozone Creations, collaboration is not just a means to an end; it is a fundamental principle that drives their artistic journey forward.

In a society where black voices are often marginalized or silenced, Ozone Creations serves as a powerful force for change. Through their art, they reclaim their narrative and celebrate the richness of their heritage. They invite audiences to join them on a journey of exploration and discovery, where creativity knows no bounds and diversity is celebrated at every turn.

As Ozone Creations continues to push the boundaries of artistic expression, they remain committed to their mission of celebrating multifaceted blackness through collaboration and creativity. With each project they undertake, they aim to inspire, uplift, and empower, leaving an indelible mark on the world of art and culture.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being a creative is the ability to inspire others. While being inspired oneself is undoubtedly fulfilling, there’s a unique joy in knowing that your work has the power to ignite passion and motivation in others. As creatives, we have the privilege of not only channeling our own inspiration into our art but also of sharing that inspiration with the world around us.

One of the profound joys of creativity is the opportunity to give people back to themselves—to reflect their experiences, emotions, and aspirations through our work. Whether through music, visual art, writing, or any other medium, creatives have the capacity to tap into universal truths and touch the hearts and minds of their audience. In doing so, they help people connect with their own innermost thoughts and feelings, fostering a sense of resonance and understanding that can be profoundly transformative.

Moreover, the act of inspiring others is empowering. It’s about motivating people to be the highest possible version of themselves, to reach for their dreams, and to embrace their unique gifts and talents. Creatives have the ability to uplift and encourage, to instill confidence and courage in those who may be struggling or uncertain. In a world often fraught with challenges and obstacles, the ability to offer inspiration and hope is a priceless gift.

Perhaps most importantly, the impact of inspiration can be far-reaching and profound. A single song, painting, or poem has the potential to set off a chain reaction of positive change, rippling outwards and touching countless lives in ways we may never fully comprehend. Whether it’s sparking a new idea, prompting someone to take action, or simply offering a moment of solace and comfort, the smallest act of inspiration can have far-reaching implications, shaping the world in ways both big and small.

In essence, the act of inspiring others is one of the most impactful things a creative can do. It’s a testament to the power of art to transcend boundaries, bridge divides, and bring people together in common purpose and shared humanity. As creatives, we have a responsibility to harness this power wisely and use it to uplift and empower those around us, knowing that even the smallest spark of inspiration has the potential to ignite a revolution of the heart and mind.

Have you ever had to pivot?

Ozone Creations’ journey from a larger collective to its current form of six dedicated artists reflects a profound evolution shaped by the challenges and lessons learned along the way. As a group of young creatives fueled by a shared passion for making an impact through music, the collective initially comprised a diverse array of artists, each eager to contribute their unique talents to the collective vision.

However, despite their shared goal of effecting change and leaving a lasting imprint on the world, the members of Ozone Creations soon found themselves grappling with the realities of individual growth and development. As they navigated their respective journeys, it became evident that they were progressing at different rates, both mentally and emotionally. The once-unified front began to splinter, as differences in work ethic, mindset, and priorities emerged, creating friction within the collective.

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic served as a catalyst for introspection and reevaluation. Faced with unprecedented challenges and uncertainties, the members of Ozone Creations realized the necessity of fostering uniformity and organization within their ranks to move forward efficiently. It became clear that in order to fully realize their collective mission, they needed to streamline their efforts and ensure alignment in their approach.

In a pivotal moment of realization, Ozone Creations made the difficult but necessary decision to restructure, resulting in the consolidation of their membership to a core group of six artists. These individuals were not only deeply committed to the collective’s mission but also demonstrated a shared dedication to collaboration, growth, and progress. Together, they embodied the ethos of Ozone Creations and embraced the responsibility of driving the collective forward.

Crucially, the journey of Ozone Creations serves as a poignant reminder of the inherent value in understanding that letting go is not synonymous with giving up. While the decision to part ways with certain members may have been challenging, it ultimately paved the way for the collective to thrive in a more focused and cohesive manner. By embracing change and prioritizing alignment, Ozone Creations found themselves better equipped to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of creative expression and make a meaningful impact on the world around them.

Indeed, the journey of Ozone Creations stands as a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and growth. Through their experiences, they have emerged stronger and more united than ever, poised to fulfill their collective mission and inspire change through their artistry.

Contact Info:

• Website: [email protected]
• Instagram: @ozonecreationsmn
• Youtube: ozonecreations

Image Credits
William Hawk Taylor Hall O’Brien