We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Haku Leaf a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Haku, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

growing up I would always make music at any capacity I could, sticks n stones, piano at Bjs (yes the wholesale store), singing all the wrong words in the car with my fam, and writing randomness,, it wasn’t until I started performing in elementary school through high school I actually knew I had true love for pursuing music In a deeper way and it’s lead me on this path of self and healing.

Haku, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My foot In the door was really performing live and that lead me to attending so many events, festivals and shows until I eventually hosted my own festival with live music in 2016 called BONFIRE. I originally started this festival in 2012 by just hanging with my friends around a Campfire every summer in my backyard and through the years of developing my music and building connections with so many artists and people it only made sense to start showcasing that to the world or really just New York. Last year we made our 10th years anniversary at Forest Park Bandshell and we’re planning the next one TBA!!

I’m also a Singer Songwriter, Rapper, Producer and Engineer,, I’m very humbled to work with all the artists I do and I find to be at my best when I’m collaborating with others. I’ve expanded my genres from Rock & soul – Hip Hop, jazz, and latinx fusions.

With all that to say my passion is creating music and performing live, I’ve now developed a 7 piece band with all individually talented musicians that bring my music to life. I would’ve never thought a ukulele could do that until I went for it..

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

My goal is to give the guidance that was given to me when I needed it most,, that can be anything to anyone but if we’re to change anything about this world while earth will have us, it starts with our children and teaching them the right way. We can’t expect to escape these cycles if we don’t try to change them within ourselves first and show them the way. In physical form I would want to have my own or partner with a camp to give kids from underprivileged communities like my self an outlet to get away from the hood and explore new avenues and activities learning the things they don’t teach you in school. This is the way.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

Non creatives are all creatives, we may express ourselves and have many different outlets from each other but we’re all the same. Just like people were reflections of one another with different experiences and feelings that shape our understanding and guide us in all directions but one thing we have to remember is that we’re all heading to same place so it’s all about the journey and how we want to live a fulfilling life. Do what makes you happy and it would still contribute to everyone else bc YOU are satisfied. We have to focus on ourselves and make sure we’re good to be able to help the world. Music, art, love, life, doctor, Contractor, desk job, and capitalism all fall into one space and the illusion is separation from within. Tap into the elements and let go for a second, my journey is yours and im wishing you great enlightenment.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/Hakuleaf
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/pulchritudelove?igshid=MmIzYWVlNDQ5Yg==
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LeafHakuleaf?mibextid=LQQJ4d
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQwwo7xHfQ-tss3Xj4hYMoP6EMFtfwvca

Image Credits
@jojosjpeg @photoroar