We were lucky to catch up with Pocahontas Music recently and have shared our conversation below.

Pocahontas, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Has your work ever been misunderstood or mischaracterized?

As a musical artist, I have often felt misunderstood, torn between my identity as a musician and a survivor of serious childhood trauma. My early years were marred by abuse and molestation, experiences that initially shaped me into someone I scarcely recognized. I became a people pleaser, perpetually striving to prove myself to a world that often didn’t believe or protect me. This journey led me to lose trust and faith—not only in others but in myself—fearing recurring pain and revisiting unresolved triggers.

However, music has always been my solace. Whether through singing, writing, or playing instruments, I’ve found peace and transformed my suffering into something profoundly beautiful. Confronting my own demons has been a long and arduous process, but I am now more spiritually connected to God and committed to personal growth. As an introvert, I prefer solitude and have realized that studio artistry, rather than live performance, is my true passion. Creating music that resonates deeply with others is my calling, and I am gradually finding an audience that appreciates both my art and my authentic self.

My life experiences, including betrayal, exploitation, and heartbreak, are experiences many can relate to. Through my unwavering faith in God, I have shed my fears, knowing I am divinely protected. Despite those who have maligned my character, I remain dedicated to being true to myself, spreading love, and making extraordinary music. Achieving fame was never my goal, but I continue to pursue excellence in my craft. I am proud of my accomplishments and the progress I’ve made, thankful that my trauma did not turn me into someone I am not. Once people come to understand the real me, I will feel immense gratitude.

Pocahontas, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I am Pocahontas Music, a multi-talented artist deeply passionate about singing, rapping, and songwriting. My journey has also led me to become a renowned celebrity ghostwriter, with notable contributions to the movie “Unfaithful” and the song “Streets” by Doja Cat. My exceptional songwriting skills have enriched the works of many celebrated artists, including Ariana Grande, Victoria Monét, Chris Brown, Jordin Sparks, Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift, Brandy, Selena Gomez, Jessie J, Beyoncé, Rihanna, Jennifer Lopez, Fantasia, and many others.

I have had the privilege of collaborating with major labels such as RCA Records, Epic Records, Warner Music, Republic Records, Universal Music Group, and Columbia Records. These collaborations showcase my versatility and influence within the music industry. My performances have garnered international acclaim, with my songs reaching number one in Germany and London.

My music is a beautiful fusion of R&B and Pop, reflecting my diverse artistic inclinations. Additionally, my talents in Afrobeat demonstrate my skill in crafting hip-hop and rap music.

I am honored to be a distinguished Grammy U Member of the Recording Academy, which affirms my unwavering commitment to musical excellence. My remarkable journey as an artist and songwriter continues to inspire audiences worldwide, solidifying my reputation as a powerhouse in the music industry.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

Absolutely, there are several aspects of a creative journey that non-creatives might find difficult to understand. Offering some insights into these challenges could foster greater empathy and support from those who may not experience the creative process firsthand. Here are a few key points:

The Emotional Investment

1. Vulnerability and Exposure: Creating music—or any form of art—requires a significant amount of emotional exposure. When you put your work out into the world, you are sharing a piece of your soul. The fear of rejection or criticism can be overwhelming, and it takes a lot of courage to put yourself out there.

2. Emotional Rollercoaster: The life of a creative is often filled with highs and lows. Moments of inspiration and triumph can quickly be followed by periods of doubt and frustration. This emotional ebb and flow is part of the creative process, but it can be exhausting and difficult for others to understand.

The Time Commitment

3. Overlapping Responsibilities: Balancing a regular job with your creative pursuits is no small feat. It requires excellent time management and often sacrifices in personal time and social life. Non-creatives might not realize the double workload and the dedication required to keep both sides of your life flourishing.

4. The Unseen Work: Much of the work that goes into creating music happens behind the scenes—writing, rehearsing, recording, mixing, marketing, and more. This “invisible” labor is crucial to the final product but often goes unrecognized by those who only see the end result.

Financial Struggles

5. Financial Uncertainty: Unlike conventional careers with steady paychecks, a creative career is often financially unpredictable. Investing in instruments, studio time, marketing, and other resources while managing regular financial responsibilities can be incredibly stressful.

6. Value Perception: Many people assume that passion projects should not require financial compensation because they are driven by love and enthusiasm. However, the skills and time invested in creating art deserve fair compensation, just like any other form of labor.

The Importance of Support

7. Need for Validation: Receiving support and validation from peers, family, and the community is invaluable for a creative person. Encouragement can make a significant difference in persevering through tough times and continuing to create.

8. Constructive Criticism: While support is essential, equally important is constructive criticism. Honest feedback helps artists grow and refine their craft, but it should be offered thoughtfully and respectfully.

The Inner Drive

9. The Creative Urge: Creativity is often not a choice but a compulsion. The need to create can be as fundamental as the need to eat or sleep. Non-creatives might struggle to understand this intrinsic drive and the frustration that comes from not being able to fulfill it.

10. Personal Fulfillment: For many artists, creating is not about fame or money but about personal fulfillment and expression. It’s a way to process emotions, tell stories, and connect with others on a deep level. This intrinsic reward can be difficult to quantify but is incredibly important to those who create.

Epilogue: Bridging the Gap

By understanding these facets of a creative’s journey, non-creatives can offer more meaningful support. Whether through providing financial backing, offering moral support, or simply making space for the emotional ebbs and flows, everyone can play a role in helping artists thrive. This understanding can build bridges between different life paths, fostering a richer, more empathetic community.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The rewarding aspects of being a music artist are deeply rooted in the profound sense of self-discovery and fulfillment that the creative process brings. For me, music is not just a vocation but a vital part of my identity. It has been through my artistic journey that I have truly found myself, and this realization is one of the most gratifying experiences of my life.

Engaging in the creative process of music-making has allowed me to explore the depths of my own emotions, thoughts, and experiences. Each song I write, every note I sing, and every performance I deliver is a reflection of my inner world. This journey of self-exploration has led me to a greater understanding of who I am, both as an artist and as an individual. The opportunity to express myself authentically through music is an incomparable gift that continues to foster my personal growth.

Passion is the heartbeat of any creative endeavor, and for me, it is the driving force behind my music career. The joy and excitement I derive from creating and performing music are unparalleled. This passion fuels my dedication and commitment, motivating me to continually hone my craft, overcome challenges, and strive for excellence. The intrinsic satisfaction of pursuing something I love is profoundly fulfilling and serves as a constant source of happiness in my life.

Music has a unique ability to transcend the ordinary and touch the soul. The emotional release and catharsis that come from creating music are incredibly therapeutic. In moments of hardship or joy, music provides an outlet for my emotions, offering solace and celebration alike. The psychological benefits of engaging deeply with my art form cannot be overstated, as they contribute significantly to my overall well-being and mental health.

One of the most rewarding aspects of being a music artist is the opportunity to connect with others through my work. Music is a universal language that has the power to bridge gaps, bring people together, and evoke shared experiences. Knowing that my music can inspire, comfort, or uplift someone else is immensely gratifying. The positive impact I can have on others through my art is both humbling and motivating, reinforcing the significance of my creative endeavors.

While financial success and recognition are certainly gratifying, the true reward lies in the fulfillment that comes from pursuing a career aligned with my passion and purpose. Every milestone, be it completing a new song, receiving praise from peers, or performing to an appreciative audience, reinforces my choice to follow this path. The sense of accomplishment and pride that accompanies these achievements is a testament to the hard work and dedication invested in my craft.

In conclusion, the most rewarding aspects of being a music artist stem from the profound sense of self-discovery, the passion that drives my happiness, and the emotional and psychological benefits of creating music. The connection with others and the impact my music can have are invaluable rewards that continue to inspire and motivate me. This journey, filled with both challenges and triumphs, is one that I embrace wholeheartedly, for it allows me to truly find and express myself in the most authentic way possible.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialpocahontasmusic7?igsh=MXFtOWlxbDQyeWt1NA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCA5BMW_yGp5lyjHH_fL5VIA?si=lKzXgYkWuvK5bMIb
• Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3Itb5acDSPkgoiqbbz4cYy?si=2ieIW62kQdqRdk_gH8Lq6g

  https://music.apple.com/us/artist/pocahontas-music/1524044010