We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Lydia Brooks a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Lydia thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?
Ive always visualized myself performing, and creating ever since I was a little girl. I picked up guitar around 12 years old, I didn’t know what I was doing whatsoever, but I was strongly called to the instrument, I could always sing, but I wanted to accompany myself and my own lyrics being written. I started taking guitar lessons and quickly figured out it wasn’t for me, So I quit after a month and taught myself through YouTube, books and just learning my favorite songs at the moment. Learning the craft of music is a transformative journey to say the least. it required a lot of dedication, discipline and training of the ear. the journey wasn’t all rainbows and butterflies just because I could play a chord or two, I had to do a a lot of Inner work I was preparing myself to be able to play live with bands, and just hold myself down musically, I never rushed the process, I wasn’t always eager to share my gifts with the world, it took me 5 years to touch a stage, 5 years of sitting in my room and singing to my bedroom walls. 5 years of writing my heart and tears on a piece of paper. It was such a beautiful experience and I wouldn’t change it for the world. A quote to always remember ” proper preparation prevents poor performance.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My Name is Lydia Joy, Born and Raised in Akron, Ohio. I grew up singing in Choir at Church, so I’ve always had a love for music, I became more interested in music at around age 12, I was going through a deep depression and decided to pick up guitar, My inspirations at the time were and still are Ed Sheeran, Jamie Grace, India Arie, Daniel Ceasar , Lauryn Hill, their drive and dedication to their craft has shaped me in so many ways. Over my 12 year journey as a singer- Songwriter music has been both my refuge and a profound means of self- discovery. Starting with the guitar at a young age, it became my coping mechanism and escape allowing me to delve into my emotions. As I navigated the complexities of life, my music became a vessel for healing, and I embarked on a transformative journey of self awareness. This evolution culminated in the creation of my single ” Self Love” in 2022, A project that bore witness to my struggles. I envisioned a future self that embraces every imperfection with a deep, genuine love. Through this musical Journey, I found solace and a way to connect with others on a profound level, Sharing the healing power of sound. Music is my calling, I Thank God everyday for allowing me to help others heal through music, If it wasn’t for the calling, I wouldn’t be here today.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist and creative is the connection forged between the creator and the audience.its such a unique form of communication, Ive always strived to create sounds that people can resonate with. reaching into the realm of emotions, thoughts and shared experiences, I think it creates a sense of fulfillment that goes beyond personal satisfaction. Art has the power to provoke, comfort challenge and unite and touch hearts and souls. that’s the most rewarding. when you can touch someone Soul. There’s nothing deeper than the Soul.
In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?
I believe Society can best support artists and a thriving creative ecosystem by recognizing how valuable art and culture is.Providing more accessible platforms for underground artists to share their work, and ensuring fair compensation for artistic contributions, Providing more cultural events and creative spaces helps cultivate an environment where artist flourish. I also believe if Artists support other artist we can change the world together!!
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