Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to TyQuan (Ty-Clef) Baskin. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi TyQuan (Ty-Clef), thanks for joining us today. Do you wish you had started sooner?
In all honesty? It’s quite ironic that you’ve asked this question. Wishing I started my journey sooner is an internal battle I face frequently. In this entertainment industry, they want what’s the newest, what’s the hottest, what’s the “Now”. And as a 27 year old, I often ask if I’m losing my spark. If my eyes have the same gleam as they once had… When I was younger, I was fearless! I was focused, confident, and determined! I had a passion so strong, others would think I had a fire light underneath me. But now? As maturity sinks in, I view my passions as a mental escape. I view my music and dance as an act of self care. I use the arts as a tool to keep my head above water. It helps deal with the constant obstacles life tends to throw. But regardless of my journey, I don’t regret anything. The lines between wishing I started at a younger age, and regretting my past decisions can blur quite easily. But I’m truly grateful for the lessons and experience I’ve gained…Without it, I wouldn’t be as strong, and confident of a performer that I am today. I just wish I had a teleportation device to go back in time, and tell myself to GO FOR IT!
My passion for the arts began at a very young age. Ever since I can remember, I was obsessed with music videos. I was amazed with the visuals and how music artists like Missy Elliot, Michael Jackson, and Evanescence had the power to paint the picture of their lyrics. As a child, I often daydreamed about selling out shows, and signing autographs. Ironically, I was caught frequently performing in the living room; dancing and blasting music for hours. I guess you can blame both sides of my family for being musically included. So my fate was inevitable. Looking back, I truly have my middle school, and Highschool teachers to thank for being my first fans. They pushed me, and helped me believe I actually had talent. (Today, I’m not sure if it’s because I was the only black kid in my classes) But, they saw a performer in me. And for this? I am forever indebted.
I tried orchestra and band. I even sang in my church choir. But it wasn’t until I started performing in my school musicals, competing in their debate/ forensics tournaments, and joining my school’s show choir. That started to consider the possibility of making this my life’s profession. I started recording myself dancing, and posting it on Facebook and YouTube…I just wish I kept with it. If I was smarter THEN? I could have gained followers. I could have started my brand. I could have started writing music sooner! But I was too afraid to promote myself around the school. I guess I was worried about being judged, and viewed as weirdo for recording myself. I just wish I knew then, what I know now. I would have kept those videos! I would have sent them to labels, sent them to agents, etc. If I played my cards right then? Who knows where I could be if I had the proper exposure when I was a teen.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers
Oh yes, yes. Well if you haven’t heard of me or seen me perform, It’s nice to meet ya folks! My name is TyQuan aka “Ty-Clef”. I’m a local music artist in the KC metro area. If I could summarize my “sound”, I’d say I’m a neo-soul/ Jazzy, Lofi beat artist. Very much Khalid vibes. From time to time I may rap, or release a hype/ turn up track. It just depends on my inspiration. When making music, I love producing music the listener can play anytime, any day, any emotion, and anywhere. No matter what the occasion is, My sound could be the perfect background music. On top of my musical journey, I’m also the CEO of “DTI” (Double Take Industries). We’re a local entertainment group full of dancers, actors, singers, and models! Our Company motto is, “Shining a spotlight on the hidden talent in Kc! “ We specialize in music videos, opening events/closing events, runway shows, etc. We’ve danced for various music artists like tech n9ne, Krizz Kaliko, Shilow, and etc. Lately we’ve been a huge hit at KC Pride Fest for the past 5 years!
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
As an independent artist/ business owner, the best part of this whole journey is watching our fan base grow. It’s the most rewarding feeling when people begin to recognize our faces, and remember our performances.
Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?
A major lesson I’ve learned on this journey is, “Not everyone is meant for the whole ride.” And this lesson rings in multiple areas of my life. Professional and non. With no animosity I’ve just have old friends and colleagues that originally were down for the ride, but sadly life happens and tested the character of the individual and their dedication. I’ve learned people will make time for what they want and where their goals a line.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.instagram.com/thatguyttyy26/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/official__d.t.i/
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/tbbaskin
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrn8e6X37-cOxaD9hQ5CnBQ
- Other: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialDTI