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

Hi Malik, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
Nipsey Hussle once said in an interview that “I just didn’t quit.” He went on to explain how we’re going to go through every emotion, every feeling on our path – and the only thing that separates one person from another is that at the end of the day one didn’t quit and one did. For me, knowing whether to keep going is recognizing those times when I feel like giving up. It’s at those moments when it’s crucial for me to remind myself of the countless hours that I’ve put into my craft. To remind myself of where I started and how far I’ve come. And to just give up, because I’m down on my luck or discouraged, or whatever it is I may be feeling just doesn’t sit right with me. I’d look back at some point and wonder what could’ve been, and ultimately regret not giving myself the chance to find out. Most times that’s easier said than done. But, I think knowing my “why?” is how I know to keep going. Our “why?” I feel, keeps us focused on the sole reason we’re pursuing these passion of ours. And also, I understand that most of this life is mental, and our thoughts and words are powerful. I know I’m going to fail at some point, multiple times at that, but failure isn’t synonymous with giving up. One of my role models, Will Smith said to “fail forward.” So that’s what I do, I fail then learn then try again. There’s no quit in me, so I’ll leave with this… “One of the most common causes of failure is that habit of quitting when one is overtaken by temporary defeat” – Napoleon Hill, Think and Grow Rich

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m a music producer, recording artist, engineer and songwriter. My main focus is on music production, that usually where I’m putting most of my creativity to work. I feel what sets me apart is that I’ve never looked to do what anyone else is doing or has done. I think my production is in a lane of its own which makes it unique to me. Definitely wasn’t easy but I think the best way to overcome any challenge is to just push through it. I’ve learned how to be self-motivated. It’s been too many times I’ve wanted to give up or have doubted myself but having that ability to motivate myself helped me navigate through those times of doubt. I’d want the world to know that I remain true myself and give this everything I have, always.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
The Star in Frisco is always a good time. I don’t spend too much time here but Deep Ellum could definitely be fun. I do like the uptown area, I like to get fly and go have a few drinks. But outside of that, I don’t really go anywhere or do much.

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?
I want to shoutout my brothers, Devyn and Julian. Without those guys, I could’ve given this up a long time ago.

Website: linktr.ee/likone

Instagram: instagram.com/lik.one

Twitter: twitter.com/likone_

Image Credits
Miriam Garcia

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