Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Cliff Dorsey. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Cliff thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Let’s jump back to the first dollar you earned as a creative? What can you share with us about how it happened?
I was 17 and I auditioned to play a small BBQ joint back near my hometown in Florida. I auditioned with George Strait, Johnny Cash, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and my first originals. It was 2 hour gig with a homemade PA system made up of two guitar amps one for my vocals and one for my guitar. I walked away with a crisp $100 bill, a plate of BBQ, & a second gig.
Cliff , 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?
I’m a country music singer songwriter from High Springs Florida & now call Nashville home. Growing up superheros to me were country music singers that my parents listened to like Johnny Cash, George Strait, & Waylon Jennings. As I grew older I started to discover artist like Chris Young and Josh Tuner. The first time I heard Josh Turner sing ‘Long Black Train’ I said ‘Lord if I had a voice like that I would do something about it.’ The next week my 15 year old self developed a deep voice & the rest is history.
Performing hasn’t always been easy for me and I had to overcome stage fright. I’m thankful for my family and church family for fostering the talents that God has given me. My earliest memories of performing were with them.
Being able to live a life full of music and songwriting is a gift that I work hard to not take for granted. I am thankful that my music touches people and serves a purpose for them. One of the best things is to hear from a fan that coming to one of my shows is the best part of their day. They relax & unwind. It’s good to share the moment when they exhale and start to enjoy life.
How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?
One of the best ways to support artists that you find valuable is to help them get discovered. Share their music with your friends, your coworkers, your family – sharing music is free & when you share it you create a ripple effect that helps connect artists to more people who find their art valuable.
Go to shows, bring friends, buy the shirt, & turn the music up! Music is one of the best gifts you can give & receive.
How did you build your audience on social media?
Social media is a part of being a creative. There are challenging things about it but ultimately it’s a good way to connect with your audience and other artists.
The best advice I could share is to not be afraid to be yourself. Share the new song that you just wrote that isn’t perfect, share things that inspire you, say thankyou to those that support you, and share your friends music, their shows, and projects.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.cliffdorsey.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cliffdorseymusic/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cliffdorseymusic
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@cliffdorseymusic
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@cliffdorseymusic?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc
Image Credits
Amy Richmond