Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Darrin Williams. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Darrin, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Was there an experience or lesson you learned at a previous job that’s benefited your career afterwards?
Music has always been a huge part of my life and I spent most of my 20s writing and performing. After I graduated college for video production, I got a job at a church. It was my first real job that wasn’t Blue Collar work. It was awesome to be able to take my video skills and creative ideas and get paid for them. However, the longer I was there, I felt like I couldn’t be myself and do the music that was once the backbone of my life. Although this was a job where I could still use my creativity, I felt as if I could only use it towards the organizations goals and felt discouraged to make my own art or music. I even tried to shift my music to be more religious just to fit in and find a piece of me that was missing, but that wasn’t met with much acceptance. Luckily I was able to get a job at another church of all places, but they accept everyone for exactly who they are, where a lot of churches tell you that to get you in the door and then change you. This new job not only accepted that I did reggae music, but they also encouraged and celebrated it and even have in playing in the lobby on the playlist. My biggest lesson is to always make sure you are surrounding yourself with people that encourage you and support who you want to be, and distance yourself from people or organizations who are only using you for their goals and nothing more, especially when that bleeds into your personal life and time.
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.
I grew up in Loveland, Colorado and started my first band in elementary with a karaoke machine and pots and pans. I didn’t get a real instrument until middle school when my parents bought me a bass guitar. I started doing hip hop music in highs school. I always had a back for putting lyrics and songs together and started recording into the 1/8 inch jack of my parents computer.
Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?
Absolutely, there’s a unique aspect of the creative journey that can sometimes be challenging for non-creatives to fully grasp. One key element is the ebb and flow of inspiration. For many creatives, our work is intimately tied to our emotions and experiences. Inspiration isn’t a constant stream; it comes in waves, sometimes crashing powerfully and other times barely lapping at the shore. Non-creatives might struggle to understand that we can’t simply “turn on” creativity at will. It’s a process that often involves waiting for the right moment, allowing ideas to incubate, and respecting the organic nature of creative thought.
Furthermore, the emotional investment in our work can be profound. Each piece we create feels like an extension of ourselves, a part of our soul laid bare for the world to see. This vulnerability can lead to both exhilarating highs and crushing lows. Non-creatives might find it hard to comprehend the intensity of these emotions tied to our creative output.
Also, the balance between structure and spontaneity is a constant dance for us. While non-creatives might see our work as solely a product of imagination, there’s a disciplined side to it as well. We often need to establish routines and practices to foster creativity, even if it appears to be free-flowing. This dynamic between structure and freedom might not be immediately evident to those who haven’t walked the creative path.
In offering this insight, my hope is that both creatives and non-creatives can gain a deeper understanding of the intricacies of the creative journey. By acknowledging the nuances of inspiration, emotional investment, and the delicate interplay between structure and spontaneity, we can foster a greater appreciation for the diverse ways in which individuals bring their unique visions to life.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
At the heart of my mission lies a fervent desire to ignite a transformative spark within individuals, encouraging them to seize their creative potential and prioritize it as an integral part of their lives. Through my work and art, I aspire to inspire a shift in perspective, urging people to cast aside doubt and hesitation and to embark on their own creative journeys with unwavering determination. I firmly believe that creativity is not merely a luxury but a fundamental aspect of human expression, capable of unlocking untapped wellsprings of innovation and self-discovery. My goal is to be a catalyst for change, breaking down barriers and illuminating the path toward embracing creativity as a priority, empowering individuals to embrace their unique voices and embrace the boundless possibilities that creative exploration can bring.
Contact Info:
- Website: darrinwilliamsmedia.com. insidethemindmusic.com
- Instagram: @darrinwilliamsmedia @insidethemindmusic
- Facebook: facebook.com/darrinwilliamsmedia. facebook.com/insidethemindmusic.com
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@insidethemindmusic
Image Credits
Darrin Williams Media