We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Lelia-Michelle Walker a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Lelia-Michelle, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Are you able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen?

My journey to earning a full-time living from my creative work has been anything but conventional. I began as a young African American violist and budding ballerina, deeply enamored with the arts. From the moment I first placed my fingers on the strings of a viola and pirouetted across the dance floor, I felt an undeniable connection to creativity; a connection that transcended words. Yet, even in those early days, I recognized that my skin color often became a barrier to inclusion and advancement. In spaces where I should have felt celebrated for my talent, I instead encountered exclusion and skepticism. It became painfully clear that I would have to forge my own path, one carved not by privilege but by resilience, grit, and sheer determination. Without familial support or financial resources, I turned to music competitions as a lifeline. These competitions not only helped fund my lessons but also sustained my ballet training; both of which were critical to my growth as an artist. Along the way, I encountered mentors and supporters who saw something in me that others often overlooked. They recognized not only my artistic talent but also my academic promise, a dual gift that seemed to intimidate those who sought to dim my light. Shining brightly in the face of adversity often made me a target for animosity. My home life was fraught with emotional and financial instability, culminating in my mother relinquishing custody of me when she could no longer support my gifts or growth. I became a ward of the state, navigating an abusive foster care system while clinging to my art as both refuge and salvation.
Despite these challenges, I remained steadfast in my music studies. Living in a group home in Montgomery County, Maryland, a place that should have offered stability but often felt isolating. I balanced school with rigorous rehearsals at Carnegie Hall. Performing there regularly became both an honor and an escape. Music tours became my lifeline, pulling me out of an environment that sought to stifle my creativity and drain me emotionally. Even when splitting time between school and temporary living arrangements (sometimes at friends’ homes) I never wavered in my commitment to excellence. My musical director’s were unaware of the turmoil I endured behind the scenes; all they saw was a young artist who showed up prepared, passionate, and ready to perform.
As I matured, I realized the potential of my talents not just as a means of artistic expression but as a way to sustain myself financially and build independence. Taking control of my music career became imperative, not just for survival but for thriving in an industry where opportunities for people like me were scarce. While attending school, I immersed myself in management courses that taught me the intricacies of finances and business strategy. At the same time, music theory classes deepened my understanding of instruments beyond the viola, each one possessing its own voice and glory, and equipped me with the ability to compose and arrange short works as needed. Though I often kept quiet about my struggles to shield myself from further judgment or pity, my talent began to speak for itself. Slowly but surely, doors started opening.
Over time, I began healing from the trauma of being overexposed and unsupported, a process that required immense strength and self-reflection. Performing more frequently allowed me to reclaim parts of myself that had been lost in the chaos of survival. As I gained confidence in both my artistry and business acumen, I felt compelled to help others who faced similar barriers. This calling led me to build a business dedicated entirely to uplifting marginalized musicians, those whose voices are often drowned out by systemic inequities or societal biases.
Today, I curate and manage groups of talented artists, connecting them with mainstream opportunities while handling finances, travel logistics, and full production services. My time working with organizations like Live Nation honed my skills in event production and show advancement skills that now allow me to create seamless experiences for performers and audiences alike. Beyond music itself, I’ve embraced the art of storytelling through production: combining soundscapes with lighting design, stagecraft, and technical precision to create performances that resonate deeply with audiences.
Reflecting on this journey fills me with both gratitude and resolve. Though it was marked by pain and adversity; moments where giving up seemed easier than pushing forward, it taught me invaluable lessons about perseverance, self-reliance, and the transformative power of art. Now, I use these lessons not only to fuel my own creativity but also to empower others who face similar barriers. My work is rooted in celebrating talent where it exists, especially among those who have been told they don’t belong and ensuring their voices are heard on stages that once seemed out of reach.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned through this untraditional journey, it’s that creativity is not just a gift; it’s a lifeline. It has been mine since day one—and now it’s what allows me to help others find theirs.

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.

About Violagasm LLC: A Visionary Music & Production Company:

Violagasm LLC is a full-service music and production company that I, as its founder and sole owner, have built from the ground up with passion, determination, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. My company offers a wide range of services, including musical arrangement, recording, musician contracting, and staging for full events and shows. Beyond music production, I also provide comprehensive show advancement services for mainstream media and the stage arts, ensuring every project is executed seamlessly from concept to completion.

The Meaning Behind “Violagasm” LLC:

The name “Violagasm” is a reflection of my deep connection to my main instrument—the viola—and the transformative power of music. The “viola” represents the heart and soul of my craft, an instrument often underappreciated but capable of evoking profound emotion and beauty. The suffix “gasm” is a nod to the euphoric experience that music can bring, an overwhelming sense of joy, passion, and fulfillment that resonates with both performers and audiences alike. Together, “Violagasm” embodies the essence of what I strive to create: unforgettable musical experiences that touch the soul and elevate the spirit.

Services Offered by Violagasm LLC:

At Violagasm LLC, I provide a comprehensive suite of services tailored to meet the needs of artists, event organizers, and media professionals:
• Musical Arrangement: Crafting intricate and captivating arrangements that bring compositions to life.
• Recording Services: Professional recording solutions for artists looking to capture their sound with precision and artistry, including live recording sessions.
• Musician Contracting: Assembling top-tier musicians for performances or studio work, ensuring every project has the talent it deserves.
• Event Staging: Designing and executing staging solutions for concerts, theatrical productions, and live events.
• Show Advancement Services: Managing all aspects of show production—from logistics to technical requirements—so clients can focus on their art.
• Live Events: Producing and managing live concerts, festivals, and awards shows, ensuring every event is memorable and impactful.
• Tour Management: Providing comprehensive tour management services similar to major companies like Live Nation, handling everything from travel arrangements to venue coordination.

What truly sets Violagasm LLC apart is its foundation as a one-woman-owned company driven by a singular vision. I have cultivated this brand entirely on my own, using my own capital to fund its growth and investing not just in the business but in the dream of creating something meaningful. My journey has not been easy, navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship without external support has required resilience, resourcefulness, and an unshakable belief in my mission.
As an African American woman in the music and production industry; a space where representation is still lacking, I am proud to be breaking barriers while staying true to my vision. My goal is not only to grow Violagasm LLC but also to create opportunities for other talented African American women who share my passion for music and production. By keeping this company small and intentionally focused on being a Black woman-owned franchise, I aim to foster a sense of community, empowerment, and excellence within this space.
A Commitment to Excellence
I remain deeply loyal to music production while embracing all aspects of show production across various mediums. Whether it’s a live concert, a theatrical performance, or a project for film or mainstream media, I approach every endeavor with meticulous attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to quality.
My work is about more than just delivering services, it’s about solving problems for my clients. From coordinating complex logistics to ensuring every note is pitch-perfect, I take pride in handling all aspects of production so that artists can focus on their craft and audiences can enjoy unforgettable experiences.
What I’m Most Proud Of
What I am most proud of is the fact that Violagasm LLC exists as a testament to perseverance and passion. Despite starting with limited resources and support, I have built a brand that reflects my values, my artistry, and my dedication to excellence. Every project I take on is an opportunity to create something extraordinary while inspiring others, especially Black women, to pursue their dreams fearlessly.
What I Want You To Know About Violagasm LLC
If there’s one thing I want potential clients, followers, or fans to know about me and my brand, it’s this: Violagasm LLC is more than just a music and production company, it’s a movement. It’s about celebrating artistry while breaking down barriers in an industry that often overlooks diverse voices. It’s about creating spaces where creativity thrives and where every performance leaves an indelible mark on those who experience it.

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?

The journey of a creative soul is often fraught with complexities that those outside the realm of artistry may struggle to fully grasp. As an African American classical musician, my path is uniquely layered, blending the pursuit of excellence in a traditionally Eurocentric art form with the deep cultural heritage and identity that I carry. One might assume that this duality would naturally foster unwavering support from others who share my background, particularly fellow African American musicians. Yet, the reality is far more nuanced. It is a painful truth that solidarity within any community is not guaranteed, even among those who share similar struggles or identities. The reasons for this are multifaceted and can stem from deeply ingrained societal pressures, personal insecurities, or even divergent artistic philosophies. Classical music, as a discipline, exists within a framework that has historically excluded African Americans, and for some, embracing it may feel like an act of assimilation rather than empowerment. Others may harbor feelings of competition or resentment, perceiving success in this field as scarce and therefore something to guard jealously rather than celebrate collectively.
Moreover, the diversity within the African American community itself means that our experiences are not monolithic. Each artist navigates their own journey, informed by individual aspirations, challenges, and perspectives. For some, my choice to dedicate myself to classical music may not resonate with their own artistic or cultural priorities. It is not always malice or indifference, sometimes it is simply a lack of understanding or connection to the path I have chosen.
Still, I remain steadfast in my belief that my work as a classical musician is not only valid but vital. It is a testament to the boundless potential of African American artistry and a reminder that we belong in every space where creativity flourishes. While support may not always come from expected quarters, I am buoyed by the knowledge that my journey has the power to inspire others; whether they are fellow African American musicians or individuals from entirely different walks of life. My art transcends barriers and speaks to something universal: the courage to pursue one’s passion against all odds.
In sharing this insight, I hope to illuminate the complexities of navigating identity within art and to encourage others, creative or otherwise, to approach these dynamics with empathy and openness. After all, true enlightenment lies in our ability to understand one another’s journeys, even when they differ from our own.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

To truly nurture artists, creatives, and a thriving creative ecosystem, society must first recognize that art is not merely a luxury or an indulgence, it is the lifeblood of culture, a mirror to our humanity, and a catalyst for progress. Supporting creatives requires more than applause for their finished works; it demands a deliberate and sustained commitment to the conditions that allow creativity to flourish.

First and foremost, society must invest in accessibility. This means ensuring that artistic education and resources are available to all, regardless of socioeconomic status, race, or geography. For African American artists and other underrepresented groups, this also involves dismantling systemic barriers that have long excluded them from certain creative spaces. By expanding access to funding, training, and platforms, we can cultivate a more diverse and inclusive creative landscape; one where every voice has the opportunity to be heard and valued.
Equally important is fostering a culture of appreciation and understanding for the arts. Artists often labor in isolation, grappling with self-doubt and external skepticism. Society can counteract this by championing not only the end product but also the process and the courage it takes to create, the vulnerability it requires, and the resilience it demands. This means celebrating artists not just when they succeed but also when they experiment, fail, and grow.
Moreover, we must cultivate empathy within our communities. As my own journey illustrates, even within shared identities or disciplines, there can be misunderstandings or divisions. Society can help bridge these gaps by encouraging dialogue across differences between artists and non-artists, between cultures and disciplines, and even within communities that may seem united on the surface. When we listen to one another with open hearts and minds, we create an environment where collaboration thrives over competition and where support becomes a shared value.
Finally, society must recognize that supporting artists is not solely the responsibility of arts organizations or patrons; it is a collective effort. Governments can provide grants and policies that protect creative work; businesses can commission art and sponsor initiatives; individuals can attend performances, purchase works, or simply share words of encouragement. Every gesture matters in building a world where creativity is not only sustained but celebrated.
In essence, to support artists is to invest in humanity itself. A thriving creative ecosystem enriches us all by expanding our perspectives, challenging our assumptions, and inspiring us to dream beyond the confines of what we know. By committing to this vision with intention and generosity, society ensures that art continues to illuminate our lives for generations to come.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Violagasm