We had the good fortune of connecting with Reach 1 and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Reach, Let’s talk about principles and values – what matters to you most?
2 quotes from my aunt that I have grown to live by.
1. “Everything happens for a reason.”
2. “Life is a beautiful thing.”
1. Reminds me that everything happening in my life, good or bad, is to push me toward the life I asked for and work so hard to live out.
Its a reminder that even on my worst days, I’m always in the right place at the right time. This keeps me mindful of the energy I expend as well as the energy I engage or absorb. It keeps me accountable in a way, while reminding me to stay grounded in my faith.
2. This is my reminder to keep looking on the Brightside. Our brains are conditioned to find what we look for. So, if you’re constantly reminding yourself of everything going wrong with your life or the world, that is what you will see. At the same time, the opposite is also true with the positive things. This is a reminder to see the beauty in all things because it’s all a part of a masterful plan much greater than me.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Growing up, I didn’t really get to listen to, like popular radio stations much. My parents exposed me to just about everthing else, though. Saturday mornings could range from Nirvana to Muddy Waters. From Bob Marley to Billy Joel. My vocal training and performing began when I was 14 years old in High school. It was under the study of Ms. Vernon that i was exposed to and challenged to sing a wide variety of vocal genres. This training got me a vocal scholarship to Roanoke College where was classically trained. It was during this time that i met Poe Mack, a local hip hop artist and label owner, who ran studio sessions in the evenings. It was under his mentorship where I learned the value of being an artist and just a musician. I would say, I got here by simply not giving up. I got here by moving forward at all costs. Falling and getting back up, to keep fighting until I attain my goals. Getting where i am now was not easy by any means, but let’s be honest, if its worth it, don’t ever count on it being easy. Following your dreams doesn’t become easy until you surrender and embrace the journey.
Beyond consistency and persistence, I’ve learned that discipline will get you places that talent alone will not take you. Experience is always going to be your ally. Readers are leaders, yes, but taking action and gaining experience is how you learn to lead. So Plan your work then work your plan.
I want everyone reading this to reminded that we truly can accomplish whatever we set our minds and hearts to. All it takes is commitment. dedication to that commitment and the discipline to be YOUR best. Life becomes beautiful when you choose to look for life’s beauty.
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?
If you plan to come to Roanoke, there are a few places I like to frequent for good vibes. Let’s start with The Humble Hustle Co. on 11th. X always has something cool going on, not to mention, some of the dopest gear in the city. My favorite lunch spots make my favorite foods. I go to Caribbica Soul for Caribbean food and Mama’s Pizza for some Italian, where you’ll also find the best pizza in town. I always enjoy a trip to Thunder Valley for laser tag and go carts or Lee-Hi Skate Center to get my roll on. By the time the sun sets we’ll head up to the Roanoke Star for an unmatched city view. A good time is certified by a trip to Downtown Roanoke. And you cant go downtown without stopping at Big Lick Brewing Co. I cap an advernturous night with one of two places. I either go to Texas Tavern Downtown for a double cheesy western or to Xtr3me Sports Bar for some lemon pepper wings!
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 have to Thank Sam Randall aka Lellow for an awesome opportunity and for encouraging me to-] “?my brand. Huge shoutout to Eyce Kold for keeping me on my toes and encouraging me to do what I say I’m gonna do.
S/o to Xavier Duckett, for constantly challenging me to higher versions and new dimensions of myself.
Finally, I wouldn’t be where i am without Josh Kimbrough from PUSH.audio. He pushes me and encourages me to explore as an artist.
Website: https://linktr.ee/Reach1
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reach1_musique7/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3bb5oWGe2nLY2kP-vLuuqA
Image Credits
Album Cover : Photo taken by Tobroan Jumper with Jumps Images photography. Pictures of me in the car: Photos taken also by Tobran Jumper with Jumps Images