We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Bwoy Leven a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Bwoy, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Has your work ever been misunderstood or mischaracterized?
From the moment of birth, a child is surrounded by perceptions about who they are and who they will become, shaped by the environment in which they are raised. Each person encounters their own unique set of challenges and misconceptions to overcome. As a Black man in America, I have faced preconceived judgments from the very start. A significant part of my personal journey has been to understand these perceptions, to explore why and how they were formed, and to navigate them with grace, even when they come from within my own community.
In society, it’s all too easy to categorize people at a glance, boxing them into predefined roles. Throughout my experiences in public school, social interactions, and professional environments, I have been challenged to think creatively and break free from these limiting molds.
Many times, Black artists and musicians who venture into genres or styles outside the conventional urban formats are overlooked simply because they defy categorization. In my career, I have faced moments where my musicianship or knowledge was questioned because I didn’t fit the expected visual or stylistic mold. As a producer and music enthusiast, I have come to understand that music transcends race, color, and gender—it is a universal language that unites humanity, free from the divisions that often separate us.
Through these experiences, I have learned to lead with grace and compassionate love. While we may not always realize it, these encounters serve as opportunities for growth. I choose to view them as learning experiences rather than offenses, embracing the chance to evolve and deepen my understanding of the world.
Bwoy, 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?
My journey in music began at the age of 11, igniting a passion that has fueled my career in the industry. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of interning at the renowned Tree Sound Studios, where I sharpened my skills as an audio producer and engineer. Alongside these technical roles, I have performed extensively as an artist, enriching my connection to the music world.
As the Studio Director at Young Musicians Unite, I crafted a comprehensive program to empower our young creatives in releasing their film, photo, and music projects. I coordinated after-school educational programs in our studio, offering valuable learning opportunities to budding artists.
Throughout my career, I’ve had the honor of participating in over 20 live events in the Miami-Dade County area each school year, including iconic venues like the Miami Heat Plaza at FTX Arena, the Youth Music Festival in Miami Gardens, and the Youth Jazz Festival at Naomi’s. I also contributed to community events such as Give Miami Day Live! and demonstrated 360 Spatial Audio at Sony & Music.com.
In addition to my work in education, I’ve performed in diverse settings ranging from the Mynt Lounge in Columbia, SC, to the Trustus Theatre, where I brought characters to life in productions like “The Brothers Size,” “Marcus, or The Secret of Sweet,” and “DreamGirls.” My musical journey has also led me to gigs like the Off The Grid Music Festival and a musical role at Governor Nikki Haley’s campaign event in 2014.
As a worship pianist and singer at Crossroads Church, I’ve further expanded my artistic repertoire. My participation in events such as the MTC Showoff, where I was a winner, and as a Production Assistant for the Hootie & the Blowfish Group Therapy TOUR, have enriched my experience and passion for music.
These experiences have not only deepened my expertise in music production and performance but have also helped me connect with audiences and communities in meaningful ways, whether at a VIP reception for the Auntie Karen Foundation Legends of Concert or other dynamic performances across various platforms.
How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?
What society can do to support artists is encourage the next generation to pursue the arts. The children our the future, and we must continue to use artist to engage and inspire the youth in a positive way. The next generation will keep the arts alive because art was such a potent component of their upbringing.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is seeing how your can impact some one on a mental, emotional, and/or spiritual level.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/itsleven11s
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iam-leven-llc/