Story & Lesson Highlights with CAL Eden of Northern Virginia

CAL Eden shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

CAL , it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: When was the last time you felt true joy?
I had my 30th birthday a couple weeks ago and it was the best birthday I’ve had in years! My brothers from church took me out to a Japanese all-you-can-eat BBQ and we had a great night of food and discussion.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m CAL Eden, the Overlord, of The Alien Nation. I’m a creative who draws, paints, produces, and raps/sings. I’ve been making visual art since early childhood and making music since college. Musically I get told often I sound “unique” and I’d attribute that to my influences across the board. I grew up on mainly hip-hop but was also heavily influenced/inspired by rock and electronic music which I think stands out in my music. I’m in a transitionary period where I’ve dived heavily into my faith as a Christian and am making much more Jesus-focused music to reflect this. I just dropped a 10 song project cataloging my journey to this point. I’m working on this Christian music project though now and am looking forward to what God has in store for me.

Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My mother, may her soul rest in peace, was the one who always encouraged me to be the creative I am today. She unabashedly supported my endeavours to her last breaths and always showered me in love the best she could.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
After my mothers passing I struggled significantly. I wanted not only to give up on music/art, I wanted life to end in a sense. I wasn’t suicidal, however I was overwhelmed with not having the one who always supported me and loved me whole-heartedly. It crushed me. But time heals all wounds and I’m comforted knowing she’s with Jesus and watching over me still in spirit.

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
In reality I’m Chance, not CAL Eden. CAL is the superhero persona I’ve come to adopt and the mask I put on to show the world who I want to be, but in reality I’m a very quiet and introspective man looking to make his way through the chaos of this world.

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I pray people see that I’ve been working towards being the voice to the voiceless. A friend to those that this world has alienated because I’ve been there, feeling alone and lost. Just know with Jesus we’re never alone.

Contact Info:

Suggest a Story: BoldJourney is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems,
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
Highlighter Series
What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?

Coffee? Workouts? Hitting the snooze button 14 times? Everyone has their morning ritual and we

Highlighter Series
What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?

Our deepest wounds often shape us as much as our greatest joys. The pain we

Highlighter Series
Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?

Culture, economic circumstances, family traditions, local customs and more can often influence us more than