We had the good fortune of connecting with Lachuné Boyd and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lachuné, do you have any habits that you feel contribute to your effectiveness?
I have several habits that help me succeed in my line work. Curiosity, frugality, and the willingness to learn a new skill have all helped me succeed thus far. Curiosity keeps me from becoming a rigid person and leaves me open to seeing how something can work. This is extremely important when embracing an online voice lesson format or building a community for my artistic work online.

Frugality keeps me from wasting my resources when I can meet needs with what I already have. For example, when I first started venturing into photography like most photographers, I wanted all the gear my money could buy. However, I stuck with my Canon 70d, two lenses, and one soft box light. When I started charging for headshots/ portraits my confidence was in my ability to get the shout. I was comfortable with my camera and felt prepared for whatever lighting situation I would be in. I’m still learning ( photography is a lifetime skill to develop) but frugality pushes creativity to the max because it pushes me to ask,” what can I make happen with what I already have?”.

Being willing to learn a new skill has been the backbone of my freelance work. In 2019 I started working as an Audio Visual specialist while studying in a graduate music program. I walked in with very little knowledge of audio but learned much very quickly. I knew I needed some idea of audio for being a singer. I had no idea AV work would strengthen me in so many other areas such as lighting, design, recording vocals/ instruments, photography, teaching online etc.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
When I first started singing I was unaware of the impact it had on others. I was singing because it brought me joy; however, I learned what set me apart by listening to those I worked with on music projects and my audience. I learned that I revere good songwriting and when singing covers it is as if someone is listening to the lyrics for the first time. I’m a storyteller and I sing with all the colors my voice can make.

This has helped me when teaching voice lessons. I often find myself coaching singer-songwriters, those prepping for auditions, and those who just want to sing! I think people hear a well-studied singer but also authenticity.

Like most, I had plenty of challenges to overcome. I’m from the lineage of tobacco farmers in the rural south. I had zero ideas on how to make a living as a creative person or freelancer. I know hard work and resilience from my family. This has helped me beat the odds.

I’m most excited about the possibilities I see every day when I continue to pursue this work. I’m truly learning to enjoy every second of it.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that having a community is important and often a key to thriving in my creative work.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would definitely take my friends to my favorite Pho spot in Arlington called “Thuy Nguyen Cafe”. Most of my friends love quiet places so we would definitely visit Barbers Book Store!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My family back home in South Carolina has been a huge support system for me. My school has served as a soft place to land during my time in DFW. I often describe myself as having one foot in school and the other in my work.

Finally, most of my mentorship has been through books written by a collective of people I may never meet. Here’s a list of folks who’s has helped me navigate a creative entrepreneur life!

Flannery O’Connor
Thomas Merton
Dr. Thelma Bryant
Makoto Fujimura
Dr. Jeremy Begbie

Website: https://lachune-storyteller.squarespace.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lachunek

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lachun%C3%A9-la-shu-nae-boyd-853141127

Twitter: https://twitter.com/lachunemusic

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kDjop7Lq0CM

Other: TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@lachunek

Image Credits
lkb_portraits

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.