We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Byron Harvey a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Byron, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?
My love of the arts and community work stems from my grandmother Louella, my father Byron Harvey I, and our local church. My grandmother took me to shows at local theaters , symphonies, and colleges , wowing me with performances like The Lion King, The Wiz, Dr. Bobby Jones, and the Fisk Jubilee Singers. My church also nurtured my creative spirit. Through these influences, I developed an early appreciation for how the arts uplift the human spirit. I decided that no matter what career path I took, I wanted art and creativity to be integral elements.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
My name is Byron Keith Harvey II. I am a creative strategist, artist, philanthropist, minister, and business creative driven by faith and a calling to uplift my community. I have been performing since age 6 and working behind the scenes in music production since 16, assisting local groups in Middle Tennessee. As a creative strategist, I provide creative direction, programming, fundraising and production services for artists, businesses, and faith communities. My work is distinguished by a commitment to community evolution and empowerment. I have proudly collaborated with organizations like the Gospel Music Workshop of America, Nashville Opera, the National Museum of African American Music, and the Nashville Gospel and Sacred Music Coalition. As an artist, I have released several solo projects including the albums “Millennial Faith I & II,” “God is Justice,” and “He Will Restore.” I am the co-founder of the Inversion Vocal Ensemble – a group dedicated to representing diversity in vocal music. I have also worked with various artists locally, nationally and globally. In 2019, I launched my artistic and social engagement firm Kingdom Creative. Kingdom Creative provides public relations, artist development, and fundraising services to creatives, non-profits and faith groups. Through Kingdom Creative, I have expanded my community orientation and social impact. I have served on staff at the Love Center South Church since 2020, further aligning my artistic gifts with spiritual purpose. Faith motivates my creative contributions and ongoing dedication as a minister and change-maker. I highlighted the dual social and artistic nature of your work, while condensing some details. Please let me know if you would like me to modify or add anything further!
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
I classify as neurodivergent and it wasn’t discovered until I was older. Most of my life has been about learning how to adapt and reimagine existence. Through God and a great therapist, I have been able to live a less anxious, more focused, and peaceful life. Many people wouldn’t understand the hurdles I have faced in order to graduate, work, and develop. I spent most of my grade school years struggling to learn. My adult life was filled with anxiety and exhaustion. I worked through every challenge and God has truly blessed me to be able to have many accomplishment so far.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
Creating experiences where people can connect with divinity and each other. Whether I’m on the stage or behind the scenes i love seeing people come together and be uplifted. The arts have a way of confronting, encouraging, and opening perspectives to what has been, what is, and what will be. Creating those experiences and hearing how others are challenged by it is so rewarding to me.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/byronharveyii/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bharveymusic/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/byron-harvey-ba234b93/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCldAAxTkbfjiwOnBH1mgCaw