We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Elon “NolE” Cambridge a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Elon “NolE”, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Almost all entrepreneurs have had to decide whether to start now or later? There are always pros and cons for waiting and so we’d love to hear what you think about your decision in retrospect. If you could go back in time, would you have started your business sooner, later or at the exact time you started?
This is a hard question for me to answer because God’s timing is always perfect, so maybe this is the way it should be. As I reflect on the path behind me and ponder the possibilities that lie ahead, I cannot help but wonder what could have been, what might have been, if time had granted me two more years to cultivate my musical talents. For one, I hope that I would’ve now mastered the guitar, creating a faithful companion, accompanying me in my solo performances.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
Growing up, music was my sanctuary, and the church was my stage. From an early age, I found joy and solace in playing and singing in church. Arts and creative expression have always been a core part of my identity whether through music or performance. I’m now a 26-year-old Caribbean boy who plays by his own rules. “I can’t” never existed in my little world, as I consistently embrace challenges and opportunities for growth and innovation. With my charisma and self-motivation, I simply aim to use music as a means of self-expression and connection whilst captivating audiences with a soulful voice and magnetic personality.
Being a go-getter, I approach life with tenacity and determination, seizing every occasion to learn, grow, and expand my horizons. As I continue my journey of self-discovery and creative exploration, I aspire to blaze my own trail through every strum of a guitar, bass of a drum, and sound of my voice.
(How you got into your industry/craft)
It began as a humble side hustle that I worked alongside my 9 – 5 job in a call center. I found myself at a crossroads in 2021, being pushed to decide between getting vaccinated and resigning. Rather than having a sense of fear or anxiety, a sense of calm and clarity prevailed which propelled me to pour into my side hustle. Many opportunities then began to emerge which helped me to make a name for myself.
(What type of products/services/creative works you provide)
Photographer/Videographer:
In the realm of photography and film, the lens is not just a tool, but a portal to moments of love, celebration, and self-expression.
With this portal, I assist clients in capturing life’s most special moments in a way that is authentic, personalized, and unforgettable, specializing in weddings, engagements, and milestone celebrations. With an eye for detail and a knack for capturing the essence of each moment, I help clients to be their most creative and expressive selves, ensuring that every smile is preserved for eternity.
Music:
In Grenada’s entertainment scene, I seek to provide the perfect blend of energy, talent, and professionalism to every event, whether public or private. With a diverse range of services spanning from birthday parties, weddings, boat cruises, and brunches to somber funerals, seamlessly adapting to any setting whilst leaving a lasting impression on guests and hosts alike.
I also entertain at leading hotels and resorts in Grenada, giving guests an unforgettable experience through rhythm and melody. Whether performing solo or providing backing and supporting vocals for other performers, the aim is the bring joy and inspiration to all who experience my talents.
(Where were you at life-wise/career-wise.)
I was working my first job at a call center as a Luxury Vacation Specialist, then promoted to a Collections Associate, making a comfortable salary. However, the confines of the sea of cubicles left little room for creativity or self-expression, as such, it became a bit “boring” for lack of a better word.
(What would starting later or sooner have been like for you?)
This is a hard question for me to answer because God’s timing is always perfect, so maybe this is the way it should be. As I reflect on the path behind me and ponder the possibilities that lie ahead, I cannot help but wonder what could have been, what might have been, if time had granted me two more years to cultivate my musical talents. For one, I hope that I would’ve now mastered the guitar, creating a faithful companion, accompanying me in my solo performances.
We’d love to hear the story of how you turned a side-hustle into a something much bigger.
The journey started as a creative outlet that was nurtured alongside my regular 9-5 job. In 2019 the world was in upheaval as the pandemic swept across the globe and in 2021 the government mandated vaccinations or resignations. For some reason I was not worried; not about where the next paycheck would come from or how I would be able to pay any of the bills. I remained steadfast and focused on my photography/Film company aiming to further develop and grow it, to maintain my simple lifestyle. Opportunities soon began to materialize as I was hired to film and photograph content/ads for massive franchises based in Grenada and Carnival Mas Bands. I then found myself behind the lens at concerts to capture international performers such as Shensea, Skillibeng and Isasha, just to name a few.
Fast forward to 2022, I was contacted by a close friend and inspiration in the music world in Grenada, who asked if I was still interested in starting back to do music. I had 1 week to prepare for the audition; the rest was history. It was like I had just learned how to breathe again.
Within the space of 1 year, I’ve opened shows with the #1 band on the island to this date, for international superstars like Bunji Garlin & Fayon Lyons, Aidonia, Farmer Nappy, Nailah Blackman, GBM Nutron, Vikin and Ding Dong. I’ve performed and voiced in the national theme song for my home island Grenada, “Up from Here” which went viral. I’ve also performed in a major annual national charity event, “Carols by Candle Light” among all top listed performers on the island.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
As a photographer and performer, I have the privilege of capturing and creating moments of sheer delight, both behind the lens and on stage. I’ve also been fortunate to forge connections along the way. Meeting the people that I looked up to whilst growing up, to being able to call some of them my friends, is a testament to the bonds that are formed through a shared love of music and creativity. But perhaps the greatest sense of reward in my journey is seeing the pride in my family’s eyes and hearing them brag about my accomplishments. It’s hilarious but sentimental.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: nole_sings
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Elon.Eclipse.Cambridge/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@NolESings