We had the good fortune of connecting with L8TLY and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi L8TLY, we’d love to hear what makes you happy.
Creating music. The entire process of starting with a blank canvas and depending on the flow of things, maybe an hour or two later, you’ll be surprised by what you created.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m excited about the power of the internet and how it allows artists to take their creativity into their own hands. The internet has helped me put out music directly to the consumer and reach so many different people instantly. Because of that, I learned that I have to stay consistent with my content. I learned that I have to keep pushing, using trial and error, and having a strong belief in oneself. It’s not easy at all. It wasn’t easy in the past and it still isn’t. There are a lot of highs and lows. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned and am still learning is that you always have to depend on yourself. Of course, once everything gets popping people will want to be there with you, but in the process, always count on yourself. It’s up to you to get it done. Other people won’t prioritize you like you prioritize yourself.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I definitely would take them out to Deep Ellum, there are a lot of spots out there to choose from if you’re looking for nightlife or Sunday Funday vibes. We’d check out a Mavs game or Rangers, probably both. I’d hit up the Addison area for food, they have plenty of good choices there. I’m generally a super chill person, but I’m always up to check out a new spot.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First, I’d like to thank my fam Christopher “D. Kid” Lawson because he was the first person to show me my passion for music was real and it was obtainable. He was the first person to record me and teach me how to record and arrange music ideas. Without him giving me that foundation, I don’t think I would have tapped into music and really realized how much I really enjoy creating it. As far as mentors, I just have a few artists who have really inspired me. Rico Love, I like his style and creativity, I like how when he writes, he just goes with it without overthinking it. He was also behind a lot of Usher’s hits, which is another big influential artist for me. Usher has the best stage presence I’ve ever seen. He controls the crowd and the room and keeps your focus and attention. He’s a great performer. Last but not least, Ryan Leslie. He’s the artist who did it all on his own. He stays authentic to his own sound and he shows that you can build a core fanbase and be successful.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/L8TLY_/

Youtube: https://bit.ly/2lEFxFt

Image Credits
Christopher Moore-Odum

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