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

Sydtastic, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. 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?

I started playing the alto saxophone when I was 11 years old. I was not the biggest fan of band class at such a young age, but I realized that I loved playing the instrument. I kept practicing at home and viewed band class as a sure way to practice at least once a day. I picked up beat making when I was 13 years old. I was the youngest of the two of us; my brother is 4 years older than me. I observed him playing around on Fruity Loops one day after school, and took an interest ever since. Knowing what I know now, I could have went to school for audio engineering sooner than now. I was too afraid to pursue music wholeheartedly without a backup plan. The most essential skill that I developed in my childhood as a musician was to be an independent thinker when creating. I was never afraid to think outside the box and be in my own unique lane. Research of the craft is also key for me. Many obstacles like self doubt, childhood trauma and financial issues stood in the way of progressing, but I am very grateful for the willpower to keep creating and pursuing my passion as of today.

Sydtastic, 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 have had an entrepreneurial spirit since I was a child. I fell in love with music and its many elements, often wondering how the creators managed to make something so magnificent Once i came up with my stage name, Sydtastic, I was eager to learn about songwriting and music production. Ive been writing songs & producing music for about 15 years now. Now, I produce many genres of music, but predominately afrofusion, dancehall/reggae, and r&b. I am in school for audio engineering at Full Sail University. Im pursing my own brand as a full time creative, such as Pharrell, H.E.R. or Big K.R.I.T. These are artists who are known for writing & production, just as much as they are known for their artistry. Recently, I started a body butter business called Shea & Groove, LLC. My body butters are themed off of popular songs, music history, and music pop culture moments. It is set to launch by the end of this year. I felt like it would be a great business to manage outside of the hustle that comes with being a musician. It is my hope to donate to foundations that keep music in schools with some of the profits from Shea & Groove, LLC. I am most proud of God’s favor over my life & creative pursuits. I have overcome so many hurdles & I still am everyday. I pray over my music, my business & everything else in between. I want to leave a legacy of faith, love & resilience from my pursuits in all industries I’m involved in.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

When I was in my mid twenties I was met with a crossroads. I had to decide between college and living in a stable environment for my mental health. I was in college and my grades started to drop. My focus was off and I was extremely anxious & depressed. I was experiencing alot of PTSD. I had little to no support from friends & family, and a few hundred dollars to make something happen. It was during that time that my faith was put to the test. I missed out on having friends and social interactions with people my age. I ended up moving out and working 3 jobs to make ends meet. I was able to get through it with prayer, fasting, and remembering my goals. Still, when I look back on it I can’t believe I overcame as much as I did and I am grateful. It was at this time when my music started to pivot into a skill and I felt more confidence in who I was becoming as a musician.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

I wouldn’t say there is a particular goal driving my creative journey anymore. My mission now is to shine. Be the light in a dark place. Inspire others. Teach others. I have been blessed with talents & skills that can be used to be a light in this world. I know it is my purpose so now I’m living it!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.sydtasticjones.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/sydtasticjones
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sydtasticjones
• Twitter: www.twitter.com/sydtasticjones
• Youtube: www.youtube.com/sydtastictv