Melanated Artists in Performance

     Deante Howard reveals his extraordinary journey from doodling on sticky notes and family jackets to becoming a self-taught artist making waves nationally and internationally. His story isn't just about art; it's about resilience, faith, strategic hustle, and redefining what it means to live your creative truth.     In this candid conversation, Deante shares how a childhood rooted in Kansas City, a complicated college experience, and navigating family and racial barriers fueled his determination to succeed on his own terms. Discover how he transitioned from self-taught graphic designer to a celebrated artist with a vision—selling artwork during international travel, gaining media attention with live NFL draft paintings, and creating art that inspires hope and perseverance.     Perfect for artists seeking actionable tips, entrepreneurs wanting to understand brand valuation, or anyone inspired by stories of overcoming odds—this episode is your blueprint for turning what you love into what sustains you.     Guests like Deante Howard, a hand-taught artist whose work and resilience challenge stereotypes and redefine possibility, remind us that authentic creativity is more vital than ever. Tune in and get inspired to carve your own path.

     Unlock the mesmerizing world of tap dance with Kenji Igus—a world where rhythm, history, and culture collide in inspiring ways. Kenji shares raw, unfiltered insights about navigating the industry’s highs and lows, the importance of authenticity, and how tap is evolving in today’s cultural landscape.     Kenji discusses the importance of staying true while exploring new horizons, pushing the boundaries of what tap dance can be, and inspiring the next generation. Perfect for dancers, artists, and fans craving authenticity, innovation, and deeper cultural awareness—this episode will challenge your perceptions and spark your creative fire.      Join us as Kenji reveals how his unique background—Japanese, Black, and rooted in Los Angeles—fuels his artistry.  Hit play and experience the rhythm of resilience, innovation, and cultural storytelling with one of the most vibrant voices in dance today.

Unlock the profound connection between culture, identity, and musical storytelling in my captivating conversation with Dr. Brianna Ware Boggs, a trailblazing contemporary classical composer and pianist. Discover how her Alabama roots, musical family legacy, and personal struggles with mental health fuel her powerful compositions that challenge traditional narratives.    From winning her first composition award in fifth grade, to navigating racial microaggressions as a Black woman in classical music, her resilience and authenticity shine through every note. Brianna also shares her insights on the importance of representation, humility, and staying true to oneself amid societal pressures. Whether you’re a budding composer, seasoned musician, or simply curious about the intersection of culture and music, Brianna’s story offers inspiration, empowerment, and a fresh perspective that will resonate deeply. This is essential listening for anyone who believes in the power of music to transform lives and challenge stereotypes.#ArtisticAuthenticity, #CreativeProcess, #CulturalNarratives, #ArtisticConfidence, #SelfPromotionBalance, #SharedChallenges, #RestForCreativity, #PersonalStorytelling, #MusicAsActivism, #AuthenticVoices

      Most of us stay on the path we think we’re supposed to follow — but what if a sudden detour led you to your true calling? Dr. Arris Golden’s journey is proof that shifting directions can create unexpected opportunities you never saw coming.     From studying political science to leading college marching bands, she’s navigated an incredible transformation that will inspire anyone feeling stuck or questioning their next move. After 18 years teaching middle school in North Carolina, she made the leap to Michigan State, where she now mentors the next generation of musicians and leaders. Her story proves that authenticity, humor, and resilience can turn life’s twists into your greatest triumphs.

Unlock the transformative journey of Julian Mitchell—a talented actor and musician whose path defies the conventional. From childhood performances in Oklahoma to working alongside Hollywood legends like Marla Gibbs, Julian's story proves that authenticity, perseverance, and creativity can carve your unique space in the arts. Discover how a family with deep musical roots, an early love for theater, and a relentless drive propelled him into acting and music, despite the industry's many setbacks.

In this episode of "Melanated Artists in Performance," I engage in a compelling conversation with Professor William Talley from Ohio University. Professor Talley shares his journey from growing up in the Carolinas to becoming an influential figure in music education. He discusses his unexpected path into music, starting with a whim decision to join the sixth-grade band, and how his high school band director played a pivotal role in shaping his career. Talley reflects on his experiences in music education, the importance of diversity and inclusion in programming, and his passion for transcribing and arranging music. The episode highlights Talley's dedication to impacting students' lives beyond music, emphasizing the life lessons learned through participation in ensembles.

Join me as I sit down with my talented niece, Nolita Pore, in an engaging episode of "Melanated Artists in Performance." Discover Nolita's inspiring journey from the vibrant streets of Chicago to the spotlight of the acting world. With candid insights into her career, Nolita shares her passion for creativity, the challenges she's faced, and the joy she finds in teaching Sunday school. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of perseverance, family, and the pursuit of one's true calling.

In this inspiring episode of "Melanated Artists in Performance," I sit down with Dr. Angelica Brooks, a visionary choral educator. Dr. Brooks shares her journey from her roots in Washington, D.C., to becoming a leading figure in music education. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of her career, the importance of representation in the arts, and her commitment to creating opportunities for educators of color. Tune in to hear her insights on fostering diversity in music education and her vision for the future.#MusicEducation, #ChoralLeadership, #DiversityInMusic, #MelanatedArtists, #InspiringEducators, #RepresentationMatters, #VisionaryVoices, #EmpowerThroughMusic, #EducatorsOfColor, #ArtisticJourney, #DrAngelicaBrooks

Join me in an engaging conversation with Dr. Elizabeth Palmer, the visionary founder of Modern Maestro, as we explore her inspiring journey through the world of music education. Discover how Dr. Palmer's experiences have shaped her approach to teaching, her insights on the evolving landscape of music education, and the inspirations that drive her passion. This episode delves into the challenges and triumphs of fostering a love for music in diverse educational settings, offering listeners a glimpse into the transformative power of music. Don't miss this enlightening discussion on Melanated Artist in Performance.#MelanatedArtists, #MusicEducation, #InspiringJourneys, #ModernMaestro, #MusicMentorship, #EducationalLeadership, #FutureOfMusic, #PodcastConversations, #InspirationInMusic, #DrElizabethPalmer

Join host Titus in an engaging conversation with the multi-talented Otega Okurume, an actor, producer, and director making waves in the theater world. Discover Otega's inspiring journey from an IT major to a thriving career in the arts, as he shares insights into the roles of acting, producing, and directing. Explore the challenges and triumphs of bringing stories to life on stage, and gain a deeper understanding of the creative process behind the scenes. Don't miss this episode of Melanated Artists in Performance, where we celebrate the vibrant contributions of artists of color in the fine arts. Tune in for an inspiring and insightful discussion!#MelanatedArtists, #TheaterJourney, #OtegaOkurume, #ActingLife, #ProducerLife, #BehindTheCurtain, #TheaterTalk, #CreativeJourney, #StageLife, #ArtisticExpression

Join us for an inspiring episode of Melanated Artist in Performance as we sit down with Quin DeShay, a passionate middle school band director from Texas. Discover Quin's journey from picking up the tuba to becoming a dedicated music educator. She shares her experiences of opening new schools, the challenges and joys of teaching, and the importance of inspiring young musicians. Tune in to hear how Quin's love for music and teaching continues to shape the lives of her students. Don't miss this heartfelt conversation filled with insights and inspiration!

Marjoris Regus is an assistant professor of music education at Rutgers University.  We discuss her navigation into music education, her journey from Utah to Michigan, loneliness in classical arts, finding her path in music education and how she inspires future music educators.

Join me for an inspiring conversation with LaTerence Varnado, a dedicated band director from Columbus, Mississippi.  Discover his musical journey, the impact of music education, and his vision for creating equitable music programs. We discussed his impact on students, evolving legacy beyond the classroom, advocating for underfunded band programs, setting boundaries for mental health and an unexpected job of a band director. Tune in to explore how LaTerence is shaping the future of music education and inspiring the next generation of musicians.

Join Titus Peck in an inspiring episode of "Melanated Artists in Performance" as he sits down with Dr. Latasha Thomas-Durrell, an accomplished music educator and researcher. Dr. Thomas-Durrell shares her journey from a musical family to becoming a leading voice in music education, discussing her passion for teaching, the challenges of navigating academia, and her vision for the future of music education. Discover her insights on resilience, cultural responsiveness, and the power of following one's dreams. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that celebrates the intersection of music, identity, and education.#MusicEducation#CulturalResponsiveness#ResilienceInMusic#MelanatedArtists#InspiringEducators#MusicJourney#EmpowerThroughMusic#EducationalLeadership#DiversityInMusic#PodcastEpisode

Join us as we explore the inspiring musical journey of Maliq Veal, a talented trombonist and aspiring conductor. From his early days playing the violin to his transformative experiences with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and the National Symphony Orchestra Summer Music Institute, Maliq shares how icons like Michael Jackson and Prince have shaped his path. Discover the challenges and triumphs that have defined his career and his vision for the future of music education. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with passion, perseverance, and the power of music.#MaliqVeal, #MusicalJourney, #Trombonist, #AspiringConductor, #MusicInfluences, #MichaelJackson, #Prince, #SymphonyOrchestra,, #MusicEducation,#InspiringMusicians

Dr. Amy Lewis - Assistant Professor of the University of Wisconsin - Madison. Educator, author, musician, and professor. We discussed family support, the importance of joy, how there is life beyond work, inspiring students and knowing when to rest. 

In this enlightening episode, we delve into the transformative power of music education and its profound impact on personal growth. Discover how Marti's journey from a captivated young dancer to a dedicated dance educator highlights the essential role of arts in shaping lives. Through engaging stories and insightful discussions, explore the challenges and triumphs of integrating music and dance into education, and how these creative outlets foster resilience, discipline, and self-discovery. Tune in to uncover the inspiring stories that underscore the vital connection between artistic expression and personal development.#MusicEducation, #PersonalGrowth, #DanceJourney, #CreativeExpression, #ArtsInEducation

Join us as we explore the inspiring journey of Jaquay Smith, a talented composer who transitioned from singing in childhood choirs to mastering the art of composition. In this episode, Jaquay shares her experiences, challenges, and the creative process that fuels her passion for music, and how her passion for God helps create music from the scriptures. Discover how her unique path and dedication have shaped her career, offering valuable insights for aspiring musicians and creatives alike. Tune in for an episode filled with inspiration, music, and the magic of artistic growth.#ComposerJourney, #MusicInspiration, #CreativeProcess, #FromChoirToComposer, #MusicalMastery, #InspiringStories, #PassionForMusic, #MelodyOfLife, #ArtisticGrowth, #MusicMagic

In this episode I talk with Lionel about his music career and experience as a music educator. We delve into his inspiring journey from his early days as a passionate music teacher to his current role as a dedicated music supervisor. Discover how Lionel's love for music and education has shaped his career, the challenges he faced, and the triumphs that led him to influence countless students and educators. Who are his musical influences, who inspires him, how he inspires the teachers in the district, and what he does in his free time? We also discuss the importance of music education in public schools as well as what profession he would be interested in if he weren't involved in music education. This episode is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of music education. #MusicEducation #InspiringJourney #LionelHarrell #FromTeacherToSupervisor #PodcastEpisode

I talk with Mike about how he started in music, his journey to the viola, who is a part of his support system, the importance of music education, his process of preparing for orchestral auditions, creating music during the pandemic and who influences him. 

Nate and I have a discussion about his singing and acting career on Broadway. In this episode, we delve into the inspiring journey of Nate navigating the performing arts landscape. From overcoming systemic barriers to celebrating his unique contributions, he shares personal stories of resilience, creativity, and triumph. Join us as we explore the rich tapestry of his experience that shaped his artistic paths and the powerful impact on the world stage. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that celebrates the strength and spirit of Black artists. #natestampley, #opera, #careersinmusic, #broadway, #stageactor, #blackartists, #performingarts, #artistictriumph, #creativevoices, #artistictriumph

Discussions with artists of color who are involved in the many aspects of the Fine Arts. I will be talking to professionals, semi-professionals, directors, composers, instrumentalists, dancers, actors, visual artists, singers, and teachers just to name a few. We will discuss their origins, their current endeavors, goals and future projects; who inspires them and why they continue to do what they do? These stories and experiences need to be shared. What is your story and who will you inspire, uplift, inform and educate to make US better? Join me as I share these experiences and stories.