We were lucky to catch up with Dope Candi recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Dope , really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
At a young age, I was introduced to the Akai MPC, a beat machine, and taught myself how to use digital audio workstations through trial and error. Eagerly, I would rush home after school every day to create beats. As I ventured into studios, I often found myself as the only girl or woman and always the youngest person in the room. Accessing the necessary tools for creation wasn’t always easy for me. Despite facing obstacles, I persisted as both an artist and producer, discovering innovative ways to pursue my passion.
Throughout my journey in the music industry as a producer and artist, I discovered a passion for mentoring and inspiring the youth. Whether through panels, speaking engagements, or teaching, I see the same creative spark in them that drove me in expressing ideas through music production. I have always desired to discover a way to support and motivate young individuals to persist in music production. Now, my passion meets purpose as a audio/media producer, music tech educator and program developer.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am a audio/media producer, music educator and program developer. I am currently working with Compton Unified School District, where I educate students at Centennial High School, a Save the Music J Dilla Music Tech grantee school and also the alma mater of Kendrick Lamar, DJ Quick, and other West Coast legends. I teach a audio music production work based learning curriculum where students are introduced to music production, recording and the music business.
I recently, coordinated a project with the Lennon Educational Bus in association with Dolby Institute where students from Compton, Centennial and Dominguez High School’s crafted an original song and filmed a music video within a span of two days. The students were responsible for producing the track, performing with live instruments, writing and recording under the guidance of myself and the Lennon Bus team.They were also introduced to the immersive audio mixing using Dolby Atmos. Their work was presented at the AME (Arts Media and Entertainment) Conference in Burbank. This hands-on experience allowed my students to acquire valuable skills and confidence beyond the classroom while creating a valuable addition to their portfolios.
Check out our recent project titled “Ain’t Nothing Like This” here https://youtu.be/RyW4WhSbtas?si=upRRaZEs-nYXo5GV
At a young age I was given opportunities by industry professionals who recognized my talent, so my purpose lies in motivating and guiding the next wave of music creators through hands-on work based learning experiences. Alongside of working in production, I provide professional development for educators looking to get into music tech and I provide mentorship. I believe that giving students an ounce of inspiration can lead them on a life long fulfilling journey in their careers.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Throughout my journey, three key qualities that have been instrumental: resilience, openness, and competence in my skills. Pursuing your passion boldly requires courage and taking risks. Personally, I transformed my life to follow my passion and dedicated time to honing my skills. Mastering my craft and overcoming challenges through experience has enabled me to mentor and contribute to the growth of aspiring artists and producers.
Do you think it’s better to go all in on our strengths or to try to be more well-rounded by investing effort on improving areas you aren’t as strong in?
Ironically, I evolved into a versatile individual out of necessity. Embracing trial and error, and exploring different paths, enabled me to uncover and cultivate skills I never knew existed. This process helped guide me and determine my life’s focus. I think while emphasizing your strengths entirely can be time-saving, I believe sometimes it’s necessary to experiment to identify your true passions.
While music production has been my lifelong passion, times where I did not have access has led me to explore writing, singing, djing, podcasting, editing, marketing, building partnerships and still excelling in sync. With studying business in college and working in marketing, I discovered both my preferences and dislikes. As the industry evolves, my diverse experiences enables me to take on different roles and share my knowledge with others.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://dopecandi.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dopecandi/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dopecandi/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dopecandi/
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/dopecandi
- Other: Check out the song Compton created on the Lennon Educational Bus herehttps://soundcloud.com/centennial-beats?ref=clipboard&p=i&c=0&si=64939F584348406A8887287E39497479&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing
Image Credits
Abraham
James Cortez
Ronald Charles
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
