We were lucky to catch up with TreDon The Don recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi TreDon , thanks for joining us today. Do you feel you or your work has ever been misunderstood or mischaracterized? If so, tell us the story and how/why it happened and if there are any interesting learnings or insights you took from the experience?
I’ve always been treated differently from my peers for as long as I can remember , I used to look at it as a A possible reaction to something I was lacking but the more I’ve embraced it , the more comfortable I’ve felt to be myself. Anything “different “ or “experimental “ will always be seen as “weird “ or “crazy “ That’s how ya know you got something .
TreDon , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
Coming from the Gem City, Dayton, OH, I’ve always had an interest in entertainment since a young age. My parents consistently played R&B throughout my childhood, and I found myself dancing and singing along, even adding my own ad-libs. In middle school, I began writing poetry, which I believe laid the foundation for my journey into writing.
My interest in rap deepened during that time, leading me to freestyle and perform at poetry slams, as well as a couple of concerts at my schools. My friends and I started recording songs in their basement, where I later created my first demo for my initial single, “Spartan,” around the time I joined the military.
Continuing to hone my craft, I learned the ins and outs of the industry as I progressed. This journey eventually led to the release of my first project, titled “Aye, I Tried,” while I was deployed in Africa.
Although pleased with the project’s response, I felt constrained in what I could do outside the country. Nevertheless, I continued learning and planning. After my return to the States later that year, I released a couple more singles over time, collaborating with producers, photographers, and designers in major cities like New York, California, Florida, and Vegas, gaining new experiences and perfecting my craft.
Collaborating with other artists from the city like Day Luster, Luther Suede, Yvnn, and more – I’ve learned how to perfect my sound.
Along with producers like Kdot Media, Shotbymari, AviMedia, ominvisuals, I dropped my first videos – “Victoria’s Secret” and “Run Me Wild” – which garnered attention on the news and radio.
of this aligned with live shows and opening acts for performers like Drake and Jacquees, I’ve strengthened my support, ensuring that when you come to see me, you know you’ll experience a memorable show. I’m eager to share that love and passion with the world.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
I think one of the most rewarding aspects of being an artist is the ability to reach other people. To get them to feel how you felt when you were creating the piece . Or even just being able to people through a tough time , is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced .
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
I want to be the best at everything in entertainment , originally I wanted an Egot (Emmy,Grammy,Oscar, Tony ) but I care less now about the actual “awards “ I just want to prove to myself , my peers & my family that you can make the life your dreams come to life , you just have to keep working & keep faith .
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/tredonthedon?fbclid=PAAaZVQUsUiKRJIocK43WVhISZbJhhZ81Oy88A22TNpVQLbu3Pj3MQtrKdvS8_aem_AUeEjWH90EmxWhnWVdMvYum_FIcLysfjNOfIWutr9-ZvVNciRQRBk0N5AkwMP5ClXPQ
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tredonthedon?igsh=YnJxZmRiNTFnZGpo&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TreDonTheDon?mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2FTredonthedon
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@Thegemcitygem?si=REUcw9vH-80jj2OT
Image Credits
Goode Vibes Visuals Moves media Kdot media Omnivisuals