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

Josey, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

Being a creative and having this dream of being a pop star, I feel my whole life has been about risk. From studying music in college to moving to new cities by myself to pursue my dreams. I think the biggest risk I’ve taken was moving to Nashville, with no car, no set place to live yet and a part time job that paid $10 an hour. Keep in mind when I moved I had no friends in the city either. However I had faith and determination I would figure it out and I did. Nashville taught me alot about myself and the music industry. I grew up in nashville, became a better songwriter, a better artist and a better person. I’ve had my fair share of trial and tribulations and moments i wanted to give up. Through it all I was reminded of who I really am and what my purpose is. I am a believer of without risk there is little reward. It was a sacrifice and a risk that eventually led me to more opportunities and creating the best music i’ve ever written.

Josey, 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?

I’m originally from Houston, Texas and I’m a first generation Nigerian. I started dancing at 4 years old and eventually got into musically theatre and church choir. Middle school was rough for me and that’s when I really leaned on music as my friend. I started writing songs and playing guitar at 12 years old and haven’t stopped since. When you listen to my music, or are in my presence, consuming my content I want you to feel loved, seen and included with the freedom and trust to be who you really are! I’ve gotten more “no’s” than I can count. Yet i’m still here, still pushing, still creating. Just existing is a radical form of rebellion as a curvy black women. I know I still have a long way to go but I’m so proud of how far I’ve come. I went from being booed off a stage to performing at my college graduation in front of thousands and getting paid to do it. I’ve performed internationally and around the country with no label, agent or booking team. Even while dealing with health issues I got to perform at the Country Music Hall Of Fame. If you take anything away from this, please never give up on yourself! What sets me apart is i;m not trying to be anyone else, I want to be the first JOSEY. That’s it, there’s power in being yourself. I want to inspire others to do the same. NEW music is coming in 2023!!! Stay tuned, the goal is to release my debut EP!

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

There’s two big lessons i’ve had to unlearn. First is the idea I had to be a certain size to achieve my goals or what I want. Growing up I knew I wasn’t desired by the media so I wanted to be the best, so great that nobody could deny me, no matter my looks. While I’m glad i was serious about developing my talent I had to unlearn internalized fatphobia and colorism. I also had to start loving my body as it is not seeing having a flat stomach as my end goal.

Another lesson I had to unlearn was following the rules in capitalism doesn’t guarantee your success or happiness. I went to college, worked plenty of jobs and definitely bought into the hustle and grind culture. Yet I’m still not where I want to be. I’ve had some great opportunities and gigs but I had to place loyalty in myself and my dreams and not a company or a system. After experiencing major burn out and the start of some health issues. I realized rest is equally as important as “hard work”. I can’t do anything if im not healthy. First and foremost you have to take care of yourself. Physically, emotionally and mentally.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding part about being an artist is telling stories. Whether they are my own or someone else’s. Getting to use your voice and talents to connect, inspiire, bring hope or joy to people is truly amazing. Music is something that is with us in every aspect of life, celebration, darkness, relaxing or when you need motivation. If my music or art can help someone else or be apart of their story, that’s the best reward.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.joseyofficial.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/josey_omo/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Joseyofficial/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseyomokheyeke/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/josey_omo
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/SuperJozell

Image Credits
Photos with blue background and black hair : Jake Matthews (@jakesvisuals) Other photos : Brandie J (@hibrandie)