We were lucky to catch up with Beni Rouge recently and have shared our conversation below.
Beni, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
I conquered imposter syndrome by recognizing that every individual excels in their craft with confidence, irrespective of appearance or demeanor. Witnessing others dedicatedly refining their unique skills inspired me to embrace my own authenticity without striving to please everyone. Moreover, I came to value my worth through the years of dedication and relentless effort I invested in mastering my craft. While acknowledging that there’s always room for improvement, I refuse to diminish the significance of my skills and the effort I’ve poured into honing them. I acknowledge that I am still a work in progress, but I have taken great strides in my journey to conquer imposter syndrome.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
Born from the vibrant fusion of Japanese and Ghanaian heritage, I am fluent in Japanese, English, Akan, and Spanish. My musical journey began in the heart of Japan, singing in church choirs and quickly advancing to lead gospel ensembles in my twenties.
Over the years, I’ve contributed to prestigious projects, including choreographing for Disney’s youth programs and performing for esteemed audiences like Japan’s former Prime Minister, Mr. Suga. Another highlight would be performing for a cause near and dear to my heart: the autism community.
In addition to my vocal career, I have also ventured into acting and modeling. I was a regular cast member on a well-known TV show in Japan, appearing across national television. Furthermore, I was the featured model at a pop-up store for a renowned lingerie brand during Tokyo Fashion Week. These experiences have not only diversified my artistic repertoire but also enriched my professional journey.
My career took an exciting turn when I toured as a backing vocalist for the celebrated J-Pop artist, Ai, which profoundly influenced my musical career. Now living in Atlanta, I’ve immersed myself in its dynamic music scene, collaborating with top musicians and embracing the rich cultural vibe.
As I plan my return to Japan this spring, I’m inspired to elevate my career further, aiming to bridge musical worlds between the U.S. and Japan. With endless opportunities ahead, I’m thrilled about the adventures that await on both sides of the Pacific.
Stay tuned as I create music that transcends borders!!
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities that have been crucial in shaping my career are adaptability, honing my vocal skills, and cultural understanding. Here’s how to develop these qualities:
1. Adaptability:
The music industry is constantly changing. Being adaptable allows you to thrive in various environments, from local choirs to international stages. My advice is to explore new genres and take on different roles that challenge your comfort zones.
2. Honing Vocal Skills:
Regular vocal training can make the difference between a good performer and a great one. I’ve seen many talented singers limit their potential by not consistently training. Commit to regular vocal exercises, even outside of performances. Consider working with a vocal coach who can provide feedback and push your abilities further.
3. Cultural Understanding:
Knowing the musical context of different cultures makes my work more genuine and relatable!
Actively listen to music from various backgrounds, and collaborate with musicians who bring different perspectives.
Focusing on these aspects will help build a strong foundation for a successful music career. Always be open to learning and experimenting, and remember that consistent practice and dedication are key to growth.
What’s been one of your main areas of growth this year?
I’ve made significant progress in conquering imposter syndrome, a challenge that used to paralyze me for years. Reflecting on recordings from the past, I can hear the uncertainty in my voice that once held me back. Now, I’ve embraced the parts of myself that I cannot change and I’m thrilled with the growth in my vocal abilities—adding new layers and textures to my voice has been a transformative and exciting development.
My breakthrough came when I shifted my focus from striving for perfection to simply enjoying my craft. This change in perspective helped me overcome many barriers in my artistry. I’ve learned to appreciate the uniqueness of my sound, recognizing that seeking perfection often leads to unnecessary comparisons. For any artist, succumbing to comparison can fuel imposter syndrome. By embracing my individuality and focusing on the joy of creation, I’ve found true fulfillment in my music.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.benirouge.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/benirouge
