We were lucky to catch up with Reef WYA? recently and have shared our conversation below.

Reef, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.

My whole life I’ve hated being put in a box. Refusing to be categorized or one dimensional. I knew from an early age that I wanted to be a creative. Whether it be writing, art, fashion, photography, or music, creating was always the best way to slow down time, and make me feel whole. Being a creative of any kind is all about taking risks and betting on yourself. As a DJ and producer, I knew I had a way of creating income through music. For about the last 2 years Ive had consistent gigs and events as a DJ, but I still felt stuck. Rockstar on the weekends and back to my 9-5 during the week. One of the biggest risks i’ve taken so far, was quitting my job back in November. I knew i had to bet on myself if I wanted this to work out. I felt drained at work, so I finally cut ties, buckled down, and got to work. I had so many doubters, but i knew i could prove them wrong. As a DJ I make steady income, but it’s all about figuring out how to reinvest that and come out on top. 6 months later i’m closer to my dreams than ever. Business Trips to LA, reinvesting into my solo music, merch, and whatever else i can do to continue growing. My motto is 2 FAST NO BRAKES, meaning i can’t slow down. Keep your foot on the gas and go harder everyday for your dreams. Bet on yourself, because dreams are worth chasing.

Reef, 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’ve always loved music, it’s been at the core of my life for as long as i can remember. Music changed my life when I heard my stories, emotions, and thoughts coming from someone else. It let me know that we are all connected, all the same, we’re all human. This is one of the main reasons i do what i do. I want people to know they’re not alone, to know others have gone through the same trials and tribulations. As a Dj, Producer, and Artist, I do it all. On stage Djing, I just want to see people have a good time, and try to give them something to remember. As a producer i want to be the channel for artists to get in their bag and tell a story in a way people can connect to. And as an Artist I want people to know i feel the same, i have the same stories, same struggles, i want to inspire my younger siblings and anyone else to chase their dreams. Dreams are possible, and worth it. I want my fans and supporters to know i’m working harder everyday to make this possible for not only just me but for us. Remember where I came from when you see me at the grammys.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

Community. We have to do this together. Being from Denver our HipHop, Rap, and R&B scene has never gotten the shine it deserves. Yes sometimes I have to sell tickets or merch, but for the most part supporting your favorite artists is completely free. Reposting, Liking, and Commenting on a post, telling your friends about this amazing new song you discovered. We have to have community. It’s like building a large family.

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

Validation. Sometimes in life you have these full circle moments. Making that song you knew you always had in you is the greatest self validation you could ever have. Impressing yourself is the greatest feeling. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting, opening for, and making music with some of my favorite artists and biggest inspirations. These moments let you know that you’re on this path for a reason. I don’t do it for applause, but i don’t mind when it happens. These moments are priceless and are what keep you working harder everyday.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reefwya/
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@reefwya?si=bKsNq9LYCJou5DG2
• Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7D03R6YWhiaKglwUTyAqMn?si=xIbhCkdYRI68Yu4kLYLE9A