We recently connected with Tyreon Williams and have shared our conversation below.
Tyreon , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Was there an experience or lesson you learned at a previous job that’s benefited your career afterwards?
Though learned on the job, this lesson is in no way limited to a job/career- the important lesson I learned is admitting that a position or employer isn’t for you, is in no way an admission of defeat. It is an admission of maturity, introspection and freedom. So often we enslave ourselves to unhealthy relationships with people, places, things and at time within ourselves (mindsets). Too concerned about what others will think, being lulled into a trance of complacency or being driven by greed. There should come a point in our lives wherein we are so aware of the ties that bind us that we seek true freedom by any means. Motivated by a quest for more but more importantly the desire to live in joy and peace, Willing ourselves to remain true to ourselves while on the journey asking (this question I heard posed by Jennifer Lewis) why am I trying to live for someone- who wouldn’t die for me.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
Initially I was introduced to Voyage ATL as Tyreon Williams of The Lady & The Gents a Smooth Jazz and Classic R&B Band located in Augusta, GA. It was in 2016 that I took a leap of faith to live out my secret dream, for one night only. of being a lounge club singer. After that performance invitations began to flow. Now 6 years later, we have become a household name in the area, securing the titles of Best of Augusta in the categories of Best R&B Band, Best Jazz band (5 years) and Best Female vocalist (3 years). Since our last interview, I have embarked upon a new creative outlet…hand made leather earrings.
In 2020, I began cutting and molding leather, I placed a hook on them and dawned them at my sister’s birthday party. The inquires about my earrings were nonstop, Many couldn’t believe that I’d actually made them. The response was truly overwhelming. I gifted a pair to my sister, she posted on InstaGram and Leatherings was born. Classy, Trendy and Bold…that is Leatherings. They are 100% handmade leather earrings sold through our Sunday Night Live Sale at 8pm on Facebook.
Over the past two years, Leatherings has become a community all it’s own. A safe place for women to laugh, love and connect. A place to be encouraged, motivated, inspired and shop. Leatherings like The Lady and The Gents has also become a household name.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The absolute most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative is the privilege of authenticity. It is such a place of freedom, operating in your truth from a place of absolutely authenticity opens you to truly be a vessel to God and a gift to your audience. It leaves no space for competition or thoughts of comparison or even fear… just a place of service and gratitude.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
Over the last year, I’ve experienced what seemed to be a mass exodus, from band members “who’d never leave” to friends. If I’m honest it was past time for many of those relationships to end, but I digress, So many times we hold ourselves hostage being tethered to people especially when your intentions are pure. For a moment I questioned myself and what could have or should have…but I found resolve in the fact that my integrity remains. I have always been true to others and myself, allowing others a voice in matters and decisions that, in hindsight, should have been mine and mine alone. While I’m grateful for every relationship built, I am even more grateful for those that have ended.
I have learned that truly all things work together for my good. Things have never been better. All the resources needed to continue to perform have been in place and taken the band and sound to a new level. God is so faithful. All that I will ever need He has already provided. With regarding to relationships, I am so much lighter not having to be weighed down with the negativity and conspiracy theories of others. I now see good bye as as much of a gift as hello. My favorite response to good bye whether literally or metaphorically is “May the Lord Watch”.
Contact Info:
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/Leatherrings