Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Dionte Hall. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Dionte, appreciate you joining us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?
My latest single ‘Don’t Blink’ is my most meaningful project this far. It is dedicated to a very close friend of mine that was murdered in August of 2020. It is my response to the violence that takes place in my city, as well as others. I’ve gotten so much positive feedback after performing this song at different events. The arts commission in Roanoke, va recently rewarded me a grant to fund a music video attached to the project as well as a few other small projects. I believe that it will be meaningful to alot of people once they hear it. It is streaming on spotify and apple music.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I am Dionte “Taye the Truth” Hall, a lyricist native to Roanoke, Virginia. I released my debut project, Broken King, in 2021. That was the catalyst for multiple collaborative projects, including the “We Are Art” project cypher, as well as several placements on different music albums. My music is uplifting, relatable and accessible to a variety of audiences, which allowed me to build a well established brand in the Roanoke locality. As I continue to create art and perform at various events. I want to continue to use my music as an inspiration for my community to both believe in and express themselves.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
My why has always been connected to events in my own past. When my oldest brother was 19 he was arrested and handed a sentence of 25 years. I was 15 at the time, and as an adult the things i have done, such as coaching, mentorship, and education are a result of me wanting to be the adult that can keep someone out of the situation my brother is in. I use music as a vehicle of self expression and it’s such a healthy outlet for me. I want to create a space where the next generation can learn that they can use music for more than just trying to make a quick income.
In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?
Show up, is the short answer. If you believe in artists in your locality, support them before it becomes trendy. Buy merch, buy and stream music, buy tickets to attend events and concerts, and share post on social media. It’s so difficult to try and beat the algorithms on social media, and the only way to do it is to have people engaging with you in those ways. If you believe in a local talent the best way to help them is by showing up in those ways.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/tayethetruth
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taye.thetruth
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TayeTheTruth
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UC-_7w9Al2tdTt5y8fC6MxnA
- Other: https://tayethetruth.bandcamp.com
Image Credits
William Drew Deville Wyche Mark Rainey jr. Brian Hancock