Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Tyler Adams. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Tyler, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you tell us about a time that your work has been misunderstood? Why do you think it happened and did any interesting insights emerge from the experience?
I come from a big family with big personalities and as the youngest of twelve, I found it hard to be seen and heard; so I didn’t speak much and struggled to find my place in my family. Growing up I’ve learned this left a lasting impact on my communication skills. I still sometimes revert back to that little kid that dosent know how to be seen or heard. The first time my family saw me perform, was the first time I really felt heard. Music became my way of communicating and since has been my passion and something I wanted to pursue professionally. My family owns serval business and all they’ve known is the consistency of the business world. I’ve always felt like the odd ball out, like something was wrong with me because I was so different than my family. Being a creative in a family of entrepreneurs I felt I had to stick to the status quo, so I went to college for something that interested me; got a degree in political science and soon after got an office job in a law department. I’ve always known that wouldn’t be my resting place but when I brought up quitting my job and pursuing music full-time, the first question raised by my family was money. This brought on some self doubt, and thoughts of will I be able to make this work. I’ve began to grow more spiritually and have been building a community in Florida with other creatives that understand the drive and the fire music puts in me. They understand that it was never about the money and always about being heard. Being misunderstood has taught me that it’s ok to be misunderstood. Sometimes you have to be misunderstood by a few in order to create something that will be understood by many.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I am Tyler Eraee an R&B Singer/songwriter with a Pop soul flare. I started performing at the age of 8 at my home church in St. Louis. Since, I’ve grown and have performed at festivals, weddings and other events all over. I didn’t start writing my own music until the summer after my first year of college in 2017, I like to think God revealed that gift to me when I needed it most. I’ve been writing since then and started consistantly recording in 2022 then performing my original music in 2023. What sets me apart from others that are doing what I’m doing is my music is for all ears, I like the idea of making music my nieces and nephews can sing every word to. I also like to grab inspiration from 90s music I grew up on and add a little spiritual undertone. I differ from most because I’m not only a singer/songwriter, I’m also a creative in other aspects. I paint when I’m not creating music. In 2024 I plan on merging both art forms in my own creative way and that’s something you’ll be able to see in my upcoming content. As an artist, I’m most proud of the message I’m creating behind my music and the community I’m building. The music I’ve released in 2023 has been very catchy and relatable. In my new music you’ll be able to hear more of my story and you’ll get to see my heart in a different way. I’m currently working on my first EP that will include songs that speak to loss, depression, love, forgiveness, and growth. I’m 25 years old and I’m still learning, still growing, and trying to navigate this world. I still struggle with not reverting back to young Tyler that felt something was wrong with her for being different. I make music for the people that consider themselves to be be different, the misunderstood.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The most rewarding part of being an artist for me is being able to connect with people on a personal level through music. They might not know what you’ve been through and vice versa but music can speak to people in different ways. The song you created about a past hurt can translate to a past hurt they’ve went through as well. I’ve never been much of a talker but with music Its like you’re having a conversation with the person who’s listening; with hopes that its healing for them just as much as it’s healing for you. I find it rewarding to have touched or changed someone in someway whether that be making them feel loved, heard, seen, or helping them heal from past hurt with the lyrics I write.
In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?
I think society can be more supporting and encouraging in the creative community. There are people who want to walk outside the lines of society but don’t have the means or support to do so. There could be more programs in high schools and colleges that encourage creatives to be more creative instead of suppressing their abilities to fit them into the society norm of a 9 to 5. No one should have to wrestle with being who they are (a creative) and fitting into society for a consistent income. Creative people think differently so it’s hard for most to conform. That’s why creative spaces and communities are so magnetic because they are so accepting and consist of different creatives that have gone through the same thing and understand each other.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tylereraee/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@tylereraee_music https://linktr.ee/tylereraee?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=f4e8c218-4cd9-4ea2-b24b-272812d9f588
Image Credits
Sebastien Jean Pierre and Laurent Jean