This past April I went to New Orleans, and while Kwesi and I were exploring the Frenchman Market, we randomly met De’Orin. After chatting it up about the lovely city of New Orleans, he told us about his photography and offered me an opportunity to be feature in his Enthroned Series on instagram. Of course I agreed to collaborate with him on this really cool project of his.
We all met up for the shoot the following day and it was sooo much fun! I asked De’Orin if he would be open to be interviewed on my blog and here we are today.
I hope you guys enjoy this interview and his amazing visuals.
How did you get started in music?
I come from a very musical family. My father was the lead singer of a touring Reggae band when I was very young and I would do silly things like get up on stage and sing, but I was also aware of the mechanics that went into playing live music. I first had experience performing Drums at my family’s church. My grandmother was the pastor and owner of the church and played piano, all three of my aunts would lead the choir. I remember it being a huge influence when I finally felt the groove and first experienced playing music as a group.
In my musical career, I have ranged from singing, rapping, playing drums and guitar, and composing. Music is my first love. Unfortunately, I don’t have much recorded works on the Internet of any recent musical ventures I have been a part of.
Where did your love for photography com from?
Photography was another outlet for me since I was in about fourth grade. I chose the visual medium, because it was an option for me in an extra curricular arts class. I continued taking classes like that, similarly, throughout high school and college.
I chose photography, because I have never had much of a talent of drawing or painting, but I still very much appreciate visual arts. Both my mother and brother paint and draw. I love being able to set up a scene and using my eyes to create.
How did the concept for the @Enthrxned Series start?
Enthroned was conceptualized out of my desire to produce something original with my art and also make a statement. Black women are the backbone of Black people and culture and out of my admiration and appreciation for them, I love creating images that are not often portrayed in the mainstream.
The entire concept of using peacock chairs to represent a throne came from my lifelong affinity towards the majestic look that black people take on while sitting in them. The entire concept came about quit randomly as many ideas do.
I love how in each picture, whoever the subject is, they appear as a goddess in each accompanying scene. I also use the imagery of royalty to communicate that wherever the throne is placed, they’re claiming that land and space as their own. New Orleans is very much a land that black people have built.
What is your advice to emerging entrepreneurs in the music and art industry?
My advice to budding entrepreneurs is to strive for originality. Have your brand be something that sets you apart from others on as many levels as possible. It’s also extremely helpful to reach out to as many outlets/investors or people That can provide some type of help, whether or not you get a no or a yes. Closed mouths don’t get fed.
Any advice about overcoming challenges in business?
Business is very much a system of give-and-take. Push through any difficult times, invest wisely and always have a back up plan.
What is a book that changed your life and why?
There have been many books that have given me a lot of clarity and inspiration for life. I remember “The autobiography of Malcolm X” being a huge influence on me when I was younger. I also often look to “The Prophet” by Khalil Gibran for words of wisdom.
What is the best business advice you’ve received ?
I’ve had the opportunity to speak to several successful people that I look up to, and a reoccurring piece of advice that I have learned from them and taken to heart is that, above all, networking is One of the most important aspects of business and building a brand.
To see more of De’Orin’s work feel free to check out his website here and instagram page here. Also, don’t forget to take a look at his Enthroned Series here.
xo Yinka
De’orin was dope to connect with ????