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

Hi Taequan, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
You know sometimes I ask myself this question or even something similar to. Growing up my mother wanted me to be either a Doctor or a Pastor. I could’ve very well chosen those avenues but my environment gave me music. For those who don’t know my story, I didn’t have the best childhood growing up or even a positive outlook of my life, music was my escape. I would write in my notebook all day, it just seem so natural and fun for me to tell stories.

At times, I do step outside of my current situation and look around. I see people I graduated high school with choose other paths and become successful doing so. Thats cool. Im like what if I went that route? Would I be happy? And to tell you honestly I probably wouldn’t. I love the oath I chose because it gives me a voice for others. I can be that positive outlook for a kid right now going through what I went through at that age. That kid can look at me and be like he made it, why can’t I?. That kid can be whatever he/she wants to be it doesn’t have to be music. I just want my teaching through music to get them. And I am blessed to be able to have this talent to do so.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
What sets me apart from others is being an indie artist comes with alot of hustle and sacrifices. Knowing I am willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done, if that’s investing in myself or even going as far as shooting my own music videos/content if I have to I will. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is taking advantage of every second you have, making sure you are using that time to better yourself and your brand.
What I am most excited about is my continued growth as an artist and as person. I seek new information, I read alot and study myself so that I can be the best I can be.
Being where I am today took alot of focus and understanding the bigger goal. I struggled with self confidence not knowing if I was good enough to pursue music. Once I put that in the past it seemed like everything elevated, my music got better, my hustle was turned up. One quote that stands out in my mind everyday is from DJ Crazy Toones “Go”, meaning never give up just keep going, no excuses.

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?
Definitely LAs night scene. The LA people know how to hustle out here. There is alot of networking and love in these streets out here if you go to the right places. I would say during the day Santa Monica beach. Who doesn’t want to see the beach? Day or night it’s a beautiful site. The Grove would have to be another spot to check out it’s full of people, they got a great food market there with great food.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
George Mathews “Fingaz McGee” One of the greatest music producers/Mentors I know!

The late DJ Crazy Toones

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/COeSRBbnnP5/?igshid=1euy1cok7vpl1

Other: Spotify https://open.spotify.com/track/3mlH3beuAx2hWjXWM3JCTR

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.