Today we’d like to introduce you to Solace Taylor .
Hi Solace, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
When working at a group home, I was beat unconscious by one of my clients while driving him to the bank. I was left with a traumatic brain injury and PTSD from the assault. I subsequently was fired for not being able to return to work within the 12 week disability period. I could not finish sentences or communicate effectively during this time period but I was able to remember my rhymes and was still being booked for shows. I had a lawyer and a filed lawsuit but that was not helping pay rent or for therapy or meds or food. In a Maslow’s Hierarchy sense, I went from fightin my way back to the top, back down well below the bottom rung.
At that point in time, for my live shows, I would right hundreds of little positive mantras and put them in a decorated “FREE TIP” jar. I was using the process to center myself and pay it forward in terms of vibrations intentionally placed in the atmosphere. My merch box I decorated with markers construction paper and the phrase “FEED THE POET”. I was down to one meal a day and was evicted from my apartment. I slept on friends couches and biked or skateboarded to my shows, or to therapy or other appointments. I survived like this til age 31 then I went radio silent. I needed time to heal and me being stuck in survival mode was not allowing for any progress. While down and out I use my mantra to keep myself going. Fast forward a few years, I trademarked “FEEDTHEPOET” and started my journey as a clothing designer and building my brand. I’m blessed to be here and feel I’m just now getting started!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I’m a trailblazer. My path was definitely not paved and I’m proud of that fact. I also struggle with mental health so staying focused and not getting stuck in flashbacks or thought loops is imperative to my progress.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m @thepoetsolacetaylor multimedia artist and owner/designer of @feedthepoet.apparel FEEDTHEPOET® is an independent streetwear brand using ART to promote social/racial awareness and self-love. I’m a former @husker football safety who now paints poems, designs clothes, and have published multiple books and musical projects . I work with and style artists in the music industry, including Grammy award winner Doodlebug from Digable Planets, and professional athletes.
I have music collaborations with members of the world renowned Dungeon Family and Ruff Ryders music groups. I have a new 8 song EP, GAME-N-ARTS vol.1 , to be released Fall 2024 on all DSP’s.
July 6th, 2024 I participated in my second major fashion show. My clothing collection was, “A BREAD OFFERING”. I showed 8 outfits on 8 models walking for FEEDTHEPOET® apparel.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
I prefer to count blessings. At the same time it’s important to acknowledge serendipity in all aspects of life. I focus on being prepared for any opportunity that may present itself and giving thanks for the ability to do so.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://thepoetsolacetaylor.bandcamp.com/
- Instagram: @thepoetsolacetaylor/@feedthepoet.apparel
- Facebook: @thepoetsolacetaylor
- Twitter: @thepoetsolacetaylor
- Youtube: http://youtube.com/@thepoetsolacetaylor
- Other: open.spotify.com/artist/3r99BL9JWSqm0K9wfpqX0Y?si=VSJ8vysJQrGfD9BAv1PkKg
Image Credits
B. SERRANO
@THEARDISY
@BOLVISUALS