Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Santiago Herrera. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Santiago, thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.
Imposter syndrome was something I battled with for a significant portion of my journey. Growing up, I often felt like I didn’t belong or wasn’t deserving of the opportunities presented to me, especially in the competitive world of music. Despite my accomplishments, there was always a nagging voice in my head telling me I wasn’t good enough.
However, I realized that imposter syndrome was holding me back from reaching my full potential. I couldn’t let fear and self-doubt dictate my path. So, I began to actively challenge those negative thoughts and beliefs. I sought support from mentors, friends, and loved ones.
Moreover, I reframed my mindset and started focusing on my strengths and achievements rather than dwelling on perceived shortcomings. I embraced the idea that making mistakes and facing challenges are essential parts of growth and learning, not indicators of inadequacy.
Additionally, I found solace in connecting with others who shared similar experiences. Knowing that imposter syndrome is a common phenomenon among high-achievers helped me realize that I wasn’t alone in this struggle.
Over time, through perseverance and self-reflection, I gradually silenced the voice of doubt and embraced my unique talents and contributions. While imposter syndrome may still rear its head from time to time, I’ve learned to recognize it for what it is – a passing cloud in the sky of my journey, rather than a permanent barrier to my success.
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’m Santiago Herrera, a professional drummer, music producer, and entrepreneur, deeply rooted in my Argentinean upbringing in a rural area surrounded by the sounds of nature and the warmth of community. Growing up near a small town of 800 people, I developed a profound connection to music at an early age, finding solace and inspiration in the melodies of my dad’s guitar playing, my mom’s vinyl records and the rhythms of rural life.
My journey in the music industry has been shaped by this rich tapestry of experiences, from my beginnings on a farm to the bustling music scene of New York City. What excites me the most about my work is the ability to channel these diverse influences into my music, creating a unique blend of genres and styles that speaks to audiences around the world.
Currently, I’m focused on several exciting projects. I’m working on my debut solo album, inspired by my Argentine roots and my experiences as a professional musician playing as many different genres as posible. Additionally, I’m collaborating with Future Natives and Rodrigo Aranjuelo on new songs, pushing the boundaries of creativity and expression. Playing live and touring with many different and talented artists.
Furthermore, I’m thrilled to announce the opening of my own recording studio in Brooklyn, providing a creative space for me and other artists to bring their musical visions to life. This new venture reflects my commitment to fostering a supportive and collaborative community within the music industry, where artists can thrive and grow together.
In summary, my journey as a professional drummer, music producer, and entrepreneur is driven by a passion for creativity, connection, and continual growth. I’m dedicated to pushing the boundaries of my craft, exploring new avenues of expression, and sharing the transformative power of music with audiences around the world. Music is a world language.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge stand out as particularly impactful:
1. **Resilience**: Throughout my journey, resilience has been essential in overcoming obstacles and setbacks. Whether facing rejection, criticism, or personal doubts, resilience allowed me to persevere and continue pursuing my goals. My advice to those early in their journey is to embrace resilience as a mindset, recognizing that setbacks are a natural part of growth and learning. Cultivate resilience by focusing on solutions rather than dwelling on problems, seeking support from mentors and peers, and maintaining a positive outlook even in challenging times.
2. **Passion and Commitment**: Passion for music has been the driving force behind my journey. It fueled my dedication to practice, learn, and improve, even when faced with doubts or uncertainty. Commitment to my craft kept me focused and motivated, pushing me to strive for excellence in everything I do. For those starting out, I recommend finding what truly ignites your passion and committing yourself wholeheartedly to it. Invest time and effort into honing your skills, staying curious and open-minded, and never losing sight of your short and long-term goals.
3. **Adaptability and Open-mindedness**: The music industry is constantly evolving, requiring adaptability and open-mindedness to navigate changing trends and opportunities. Being willing to embrace new technologies, genres, and collaborations allowed me to stay relevant and expand my creative horizons. To those embarking on their journey, I advise cultivating a mindset of adaptability and openness to new experiences. Stay curious, explore different paths, and be willing to step out of your comfort zone. Embrace change as an opportunity for growth and innovation, rather than a threat.
Personally, I believe my sharpest skills are my ears and my sensibility, both figuratively and literally. It’s really important for me to listen and understand the emotion before doing any kind of artistic statement or expression.
In summary, resilience, passion and commitment, and adaptability and open-mindedness have been pivotal in my journey as a musician and entrepreneur. By cultivating these qualities and skills, individuals can navigate challenges, stay focused on their goals, and continue growing and evolving in their field.
Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
Throughout my journey, I’ve been fortunate to be surrounded by incredible individuals who have played pivotal roles in helping me overcome challenges and develop the essential skills needed for success. While the list of supportive figures is extensive, there are a few individuals who stand out for their profound impact on my growth and development.
First and foremost, Jota Morelli has been a mentor and teacher who instilled in me the importance of how music feels and the significance of timing. His guidance and expertise have shaped my approach to music, allowing me to deepen my understanding and connection to the art form.
Additionally, Giuliana Merello has been a constant source of inspiration and motivation. As a role model, she exemplifies resilience, determination, and creativity, inspiring me to move forward with unwavering passion and purpose, regardless of the challenges I may face.
Furthermore, Javier Ocejo has been instrumental in opening doors and expanding my musical horizons. His recommendations of albums that have changed my life completely have broadened my perspective and enriched my artistic journey.
Lastly, I must mention Pauline Roberts, whose balance of talent, kindness, and authenticity serves as a beacon of light in my life. Her example reminds me of the importance of maintaining a sense of equilibrium amidst the whirlwind of the music industry.
While these individuals have been particularly influential, I could continue listing countless others who have contributed to my growth and success. Ultimately, what truly matters is being surrounded by amazing people who uplift, inspire, and support you along the way. Their presence has transformed my journey into a meaningful and fulfilling experience, and for that, I am endlessly grateful.
Contact Info:
- Website: Site under construction – soon to release
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesantiagoherrera/
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/santih.erreraok
Image Credits
Nella Bertana | IG @nellabertana Giuliana Corbatta | IG @gcorbatta Agostina Valenti | IG @agostinavalenti Andrea Massinelli | IG @zapequee
