Meet Kelsey Warren

We were lucky to catch up with Kelsey Warren recently and have shared our conversation below.

Kelsey, first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.

Imposter syndrome is kind of like alcoholism in my opinion. You can fall victim to either or receive treatment and experience the joys of recovery. But even after you’re treated, those dark thoughts might creep into your brain once in awhile. The solution is not to give into it or “fall off the wagon.”

A few instances happened in my life that stuck with me regarding this. I remember going to this fancy dinner / important meeting at an upscale NYC restaurant. I had no idea this was a dress up event or conference. I walked in with my long red dreads, leather jacket, wallet chain and straight up rocker look. I hesitated and told my friend I shouldn’t be there. We walked in and there were immediate stares. My friend who was a little tipsy, literally yelled at me in front of everyone. “Don’t you EVER believe these people are better than you! They’re lucky to be in your presence! f them.” Was it a bit much? Possibly haha. But we sauntered in and everyone was fine. I sealed my deal, made connections and we all celebrated together.

Last, another person dear to my life (Kat, the mother of my child actually) said to me if you’re hired for a particular job, you were hired for a reason; most likely that reason was because of your skills! They want to work with you and request your services. You’re in the club, so listen to them and become a member, instead of falling victim to doubt. That’s my mantra.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

I’m a musician, songwriter and music producer with the moniker Blak Emoji. Blak Emoji is also the name of my band which is a 4 member electronic pop, alt-rock family. I pretty much record the singles and albums myself then perform them live with the band. I also play solo shows on and off and produce, mix or remix for a number of indie artists. I grew up as a music fan geek starting as a soul / r&b lover and became a jazz nerd, dance music lover, punk fiend, hip hop head, metal head, and everything in between. Growing up listening to multiple genres of music was a treat and education I’m grateful for. The various genres inspire and shape my sound, even if all are not always represented.

I launched an indie label called Future Vintage currently distributed by The Syndicate. This all stemmed from a bad record deal I signed a few years prior. I’ve had many ups and downs in my life with this industry. But this was one of those rewarding ups that grew from something not so great previously. Sometimes mistakes can turn into something beautiful for the future.

My last two Blak Emoji albums Eclectro and Antidote presented opportunities and recognition I haven’t experienced before. I’m now dropping new singles, working on a few scores, producing a Future Vintage compilation and recording my next full album to be released late this year. Sleep is underrated.

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?

This is an obvious one, but it’s literally the gift that never dies. Practicing! Make mistakes, embrace them as fuel to get better and keep practicing. You don’t have to do 20 hours a day or succumb to other people’s common suggestions for that matter. But you have to focus, be serious, and do what’s best for you to perfect your craft. This applies to vocalists, guitar players, programmers, producers, writers, directors, beat makers, dancers etc…

Second, become and remain a fan of what you do. There’s so much bullshit and annoying aspects of whatever business. Doing what you do for the love of it helps balance or outweigh the difficult aspects of your field. I’m still a fan of what I do and enjoy the process. Also, I never stopped being a fan of just listening to music, whether old or new. It inspires ideas, provides escape and just feels damn good! Get high on your own supply, in this instance at least!

Become a people person. Keep your business connections vast and your personal circle small. Also be honest with yourself. Stretch your limits! But, KNOW certain limits enough to invite others to accomplish your goals. Surrounding yourself with the right people leads to building the right team.

What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?

The most impactful thing my parents did for me was support! People underestimate how helpful and effective this is. My mom was one of my biggest fans and encouraged me to pursue those dreams. Just take them seriously!

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Image Credits

Kathleen Reynolds

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