Meet A4n Mink

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to A4n Mink. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

A4n, 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.

Knowing that I have free will has enabled me to go for my dreams. I could never accept a normal, mundane life without using my passions to create my desired reality. There’s been countless moments where I’ve battled imposter syndrome thinking to myself, “but I studied fashion in college maybe I should use that degree instead of doing music.” Or the thought that not everyone I’ve known will accept this version of me as an artist. Can I really just be a rapper with all of the hate in this world? Then I remember how little I care about what others think, and there’s literally nothing that brings me more natural ecstasy like recording a new song in the studio. I create my world, and so can everyone else. I’m not concerned about people liking what they see or hear anymore, because chances are they would do it if they could. I hope I can inspire others to do what scares them the most, especially feeling like an imposter to their ideal self. The act of doing what I love and realizing I was blessed with a gift makes me shut down any imposter syndrome paranoia.

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?

Music has been in me since I can remember. From elementary school choir, to writing sappy lyrics in the middle of my notebooks so no one would find them, I always wanted to do music, without really knowing I would. I went to UNT, a very green and predominant music school where I went vegan and was jealous of the music majors while I studied fashion. I was like wow yall are learning how to make beats?! After graduating I moved back to Houston and was exposed to the music and nightlife scene for the first time as an adult in my city. I knew I wanted to create the vibes, and invested in all my music equipment and software and got to work. After my first studio session it was a wrap, I was so in love and knew this was going to fulfill me and help me live in my purpose. Since 2018 I’ve been development my sound as an artist and have released a handful of tracks that represent the different phases of my music career so far. My debut project is something I look forward to releasing in the near future as well as songs I have co-written. The way I see it, a career in the music industry is what I want for life, because it doesn’t feel like work. My goals this year include doing more commercial music, synch/film, and share more of my gift as I continue on this journey. By day I work from home as a digital stylist and by night I’m cooking up vegan meals and tunes that make me feel good. 🙂

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?

Learning how to record myself in logic was one of the most useful skills to aid me in making music. It helped me get comfortable recording before booking studio time as well as getting more familiar with terminology so I know what to ask of my engineer. Dabbling in making beats too has helped me come up with melodies and just keep my creative juices flowing on the days I don’t have words! Learning how to copy-write and simply upload music the right way is also so important. My advice for anyone just starting out would be to really connect with others in the industry and always ask your questions (after YouTubing first of course). Be a student in all areas and willing to learn. I also wish I shared more of my music sooner, because at the end of the day strangers will honestly surprise you with feedback. I’ve had people tell me their favorite songs/sound of mine were the opposite of my favorite! It’s really good to know what people will listen to by choice. Lastly, be gentle with yourself. You have to live to be inspired. Forcing yourself to create when you don’t feel called to it can keep you from those experiences that genuinely lead you to creating an incredible song or project. Just go with your flow!

Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?

If it’s one thing about me, I’m gonna take myself out for a walk! Moving my body helps me channel any anxious or overwhelming energy, as well as helps me freestyle/write music. Doing tasks that slow me down like reading, cooking, sunbathing, organizing, and cleaning my home really center me. Most importantly, praying! Praying and repeating words of affirmation do it every time for me.

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