We had the good fortune of connecting with Lashon Halley and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Lashon, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Risk taking is how I got to where I am in music! If an opportunity presents itself I take it. I think that’s the only way to be successful in any industry. I recently became the new singer in Dustbowl Revival. My college friend Connor vouched for me to substitute for their singer for a few shows and those few shows turned into me taking over for her permanently this past year. I would have never been in the position I am in now with touring and living my dream if I didn’t take very opportunity that was handed to me.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am most proud of my tenacity. I work harder than most people I know in that I never say no to a gig/show. I spent the first few years of me living in Los Angeles, going to shows every night. Literally every night. Doing that I made connections that have propelled my career forward and now I get to go on tour which has been my dream for the longest time! I don’t think it’s ever easy getting to where you want to be in life. Although music is fun it is definitely hard work and long hours and takes a toll on your body and mind. There is a lot of temptations that can throw you off your game in the music industry and I think warding off that kind of energy is difficult if you aren’t aware of the darkness that’s looming in the background. I’ve overcome the mental challenges of being a singer by centering myself in therapy and making sure to cut out people who obviously don’t want me to succeed. The lesson I’ve learned and am still learning is to never put all your eggs in one basket. I have sang background for so many people and that has led me to lead singing opportunities. I did a lot of unpaid gigs before I started making any money and patience is huge. If you don’t have patience you honestly won’t make it in music. In my journey in particular if felt like I just had to keep going, keep doing and eventually I would reach my goal. I want the world to know that I am literally living my dream and it’s very possible if you have the right support system. It’s all about who you have in your corner especially in Los Angeles where loneliness in a city so huge is a very real.
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.
Some of my favorite spots in Los Angeles are
Davey Waynes – for day drinking it’s the best. Their back patio is everything
Sqirl – one of my favorite restaurants. They have a crispy rice bowl and ricotta jam toast as big as your head
Hollywood sign hike – this is such an intense hike if you’re not use to it but the view is breathtaking and you get to see the sign up close!
Hotel Cafe – this place is definitely where I would take anyone visiting because it’s were I’ve done a lot of shows and where I can always run into other friends
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Shoutout to my mom and dad who have literally come to all of my open mics with 4 people to now coming to festivals with 1000+ people! They have never doubted my dreams and have supported me financially when I was struggling to pay rent. I’d also like to shout out my friends who have played gigs with me when I couldn’t afford to pay them what I know they deserved.
Website: Www.Dustbowlrevival.com
Instagram: @Lashblast
Image Credits
Bobturtonphotography