We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Colin Biz a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Colin , we’re so appreciative of you taking the time to share your nuggets of wisdom with our community. One of the topics we think is most important for folks looking to level up their lives is building up their self-confidence and self-esteem. Can you share how you developed your confidence?
My journey towards confidence began with embracing my unique identity. I firmly believe that there’s nobody quite like me, and that sense of individuality became a source of pride. Additionally, I had to work on bolstering my self-esteem, especially considering the discouraging words I encountered in my upbringing. Despite being told I wouldn’t amount to much, I made a conscious effort to defy those expectations and strive for the opposite.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
As a Guyanese immigrant who arrived in the United States during the peak of the crack era and the golden age of hip hop, my journey has been shaped by the vibrant cultural landscape of Brooklyn, NYC. From an early age, I found my passion in hip hop, immersing myself in its rhythms and narratives. Brooklyn became my crucible, molding me into the person I am today.
My love for music transcends genres, encompassing reggae, hip hop, rock, and soul. This diverse musical palette fueled my creative endeavors. I ventured into the realm of entertainment, interning at VP Records, the world’s largest reggae album distributor. Here, in the heart of the industry, I honed my skills in marketing and publicity.
Driven by a relentless entrepreneurial spirit, I founded F.A.M Records, my own record label, where I wore multiple hats as a manager, music video director, and marketing strategist. Serving as a liaison for aspiring NYC artists, I played a pivotal role in guiding them toward successful careers.
Beyond the realm of music, I delved into acting, finding fulfillment in both screenwriting and on-screen roles. From background acting to modeling in Kanye’s Yeezy fashion show, I embraced every opportunity to express myself creatively.
In parallel with my ventures in music and entertainment, I embarked on a new chapter as the curator of Kicksaddict.com, one of the premier sneaker blogs. Through this platform, I celebrate the intersection of fashion, culture, and self-expression.
My journey is chronicled in “Doreen’s Favorite,” a groundbreaking hip hop audio memoir produced in collaboration with Ryan Smith-White. This narrative offers a raw and intimate portrayal of my life experiences, serving as a testament to resilience and creativity. And now, as I work on the sequel slated for release in 2025, I continue to explore new frontiers, driven by an unwavering passion for storytelling and self-expression.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, I believe the three most impactful qualities on my journey were confidence, determination, and vision. I approached my goals with unwavering determination and a strong belief in myself. Having a clear vision of what I wanted to achieve helped me navigate challenges and stay focused on my path.
For those early in their journey, I would advise them to never give up and to ignore the naysayers. People who doubt your abilities are often projecting their own limitations onto you. It’s crucial to write down your ideas and goals, and then relentlessly pursue them. Stay focused on your vision and trust in your ability to make it a reality.
Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?
“The Autobiography of Malcolm X” has been a cornerstone in my personal development. I’ve revisited its pages countless times, finding new inspiration with each read. Malcolm’s journey taught me that transformation is always possible, regardless of our circumstances. His emphasis on the power of education resonated deeply with me, reminding me that knowledge is indeed the key to unlocking new opportunities and understanding oneself better.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/ColinBiz
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realcolinbiz/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/RealColinBiz