Deciding to pursue an artistic or creative career path isn’t for the faint of heart. Challenges will abound, but so many of the artists we speak with couldn’t be happier with their choice. So, we asked them about how they made the decision in the first place.

Yun Gluv | Music Artist

So I can fill my version of the truth only through experience. Read more>>

Hannah Johnson | Performing Singer-Songwriter, Writer, and Quilter

My grandmother once told me a story about one of her cousins who kept many family journals and memorabilia then said, “She was a keeper, like you.” That comment stirred up a question in my soul: if I am keeping things, am I keeping them well? Read more>>

Lexi Cummings | Singer/songwriter

I pursued a creative career because it is truly the one area I feel called to- I heard many creatives over the course of my upbringing advise me that if I could possibly be happy doing something else, that I should do that instead. They were alluding to the unpredictability, the instability, and the challenges that often accompany the artistic and more freelance lifestyle. Read more>>

Donna Frost | Independent Recording Artist

I was born in a musical family. My grandparents on both sides were gospel singers. My parents were as well. They traveled with their group up until 2 weeks before I was born and took me with them to Detroit, Michigan 2 weeks after I was born! I was singing as soon as I could talk. Read more>>

Joshua Lee | Multi-instrumentalist & Recording Artist

Going into the creative field was the option for me to be the happiest. I couldn’t imagine myself doing anything else. I never wanted to go a traditional route for it wouldnt give me the flexiblitly with my time. I constantly have melodies running through my head and figured this is a good fit haha. Read more>>

Dan Wilson | Songwriter at Black River Entertainment.

I pursued songwriting because I HAVE to write songs. I still remember when I wrote my first song at age 13 and that feeling I got. I’m still chasing that every day on Music Row. I can’t imagine doing anything else. Read more>> 

Trystan Grisham | Musician, singer, songwriter, and producer

Being creative is in my blood! There’s nothing I love more than sharing the art of music with as many people as possible. It’s incredible to think that no matter what language you speak or what your background is, we can all come together through the power of music. Read more>>

Leslie Becker | Writer | Coach | Podcaster | Creative Entrepreneur

Honestly, I think my creative career chose me…and I fought it all the way. I was always creative but also had an entrepreneurial spirit and a business mind, so I struggled to know if I was supposed to be on the business side or the creative side. Read more>>

Aaron Lucas | Aspiring Luthier and Wood Enthusiast

I am not sure it was a conscious decision. Our culture pushes very hard for us to fill every moment with attaining goals, typically related to attaining a status and or wealth. I believe the constant pushing really just pushes us into an unhealthy state riddled with mental and physical problems. Read more>> 

Nicole Devine | Singer-songwriter

I have always been an artistic person. I started singing when I was four years old and it has remained one of my biggest passions. I am so blessed to be able to sing every weekend. My other passion is songwriting. I especially love to write lyrics. I also enjoy other forms of creative expression such as painting. Read more>>

Brandon Owens | DJ, Audio Engineer, & Producer

I wouldn’t say that I “pursued” an artistic/creative career. Moreso, it was the path that was revealed to me. My interest in music peaked in middle school. I was interested in listening to all kinds of music, all the time and it was a way that I could express myself. Read more>>

Big U on the Beat | Producer, Artist and Audio Engineer

A creative career can provide fulfillment by allowing you to express your unique perspective, contribute to culture, and find joy in the process of creation. Read more>>

Cameron Bortz | Singer, Producer & Multi-Instrumentalist

my purpose in life has always been to perform and make art. I’ve been singing and performing for as long as I can remember. when I was even a small kid I always had a guitar in my hand or something to make a drum beat from. its very freeing to express yourself in ways that sometimes even words can’t do, you need something otherworldly. Read more>>

Sheree Greider | Painter

In 2017 at the age of 62, I made the leap from amateur artist to professional artist. It had been a lifelong dream to be a full-time painter but I had to wait until it was the right time. It was as though I dived into a creative river and I painted hours every day.  Read more>>

Corey Miranne | Artist & Songwriter

Telling stories is something I’ve done since I was a kid. I grew up being largely involved in the Theatre scene in Nashville and eventually transitioned to working in the Music industry. That being said, it was second nature to tell stories that made people feel related to and heard. Read more>>