Meet Varnell Hill | Musical Artist/Producer & Creative

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

Hi Varnell, how do you think about risk?
My whole life has been about taking risks. Growing up, moving from place to place in a military family taught me how to adapt quickly. Adaptation is a risk in itself—sometimes it leads you to fit in, and other times it makes you stand out.

In my career as a musical artist and entrepreneur, risk-taking is part of the job. I had to bet on myself, trust my vision, even when no one else could see the path I was on. But that’s the excitement of it all, right? That’s why I named my clothing brand “Very Risky.”

Risk-taking has been the foundation of my journey, influencing every move I make. It’s about stepping out of your comfort zone and trusting your instincts, even when the odds aren’t in your favor. Embracing risk has unlocked innovation and authenticity in my work, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am an artist’s artist, hahaha. I love creating things at a high level. Right now, I’m diving into music, fashion, designing shoes, and crafting luxury rugs. I was proud to be the first person in the world to design a Signature Parkour specific shoe. My journey began in my childhood home of Alamogordo, New Mexico, a small city rich with a mix of cultures from Native Americans and Native Mexicans to military personnel and descendants of Buffalo Soldiers. Each of these influences gave me little nuggets of wisdom that manifest in my art, especially my music.

It wasn’t an easy journey because, in every place I lived—besides Los Angeles—there wasn’t much of a music or fashion scene. So, being good was never good enough. I had to make my move, and I knew since I was five years old, living in Japan, that I wanted to be here in Los Angeles, California. Growing up in a military household taught me to persevere no matter the outcome, fight to the end, and embrace challenges rather than run from them.

Throughout this time, I learned to stay focused on the mission, never stray, and finish what I start. When people see me, my brand, or hear my music, I want them to know they’re getting something rare— authentic, something that took time, detail, and a willingness to take risks for ultimate fulfillment.

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.
If my best friend was visiting, I’d make sure they had the best time ever. Here’s a little itinerary for a week-long trip:

Day 1: Santa Monica
Start the day with breakfast at my favorite spot, SALT, in Santa Monica. Their menu is incredible and sets the right tone for the day.

Day 2: Palisades and Malibu
Head over to the Palisades for the best tacos at Que Padre. Afterward, we’d chill by Zuma Beach in Malibu, soaking in the sun and the beautiful views.

Day 3: Los Angeles Food Tour
Lunch at my favorite spot, Salazar, to enjoy some top-notch Mexican food. We’d definitely have to sip on some of my favorite tequila, The Smoke Label, to top off the meal.

Day 4: Hang Out with Friends
Meet up with some of the most exciting people I know—my best friends Gabe and Naheed, and my Palisades Crew, Art Mobb, and Fawn. They’re always a blast to hang out with. Can’t forget to get some pictures done by my boy Anthony during this whole adventure.

Day 5: San Pedro Fish Market (original location)
Go eat a shrimp plate, drink a fire Michelada, and people watch, hahahaha.

Day 6-7: Exploring and Relaxing
Spend the rest of the week exploring other local gems, day parties, and hitting up some cool spots in LA, and just relaxing. Maybe take a scenic drive along the coast, visit some art galleries, and enjoy more fantastic meals.

In my view, the best part of any trip is the people you’re with and the memories you make together. With good food, great company, and beautiful places, it’s guaranteed to be an unforgettable week.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First, I have to shout out Panama because of my mom. I also dedicate my grind to my ancestors who instilled confidence and resilience in me through their DNA. I want to give recognition to the Most High, my family, friends, and fans because their words of encouragement keep me going, and I don’t want to let them down.

Shoutout to Germany, South Carolina, Japan, Baltimore, Milan, Tennessee, Alamogordo, New Mexico, Phoenix, Arizona, and, of course, my beautiful state of California. Each place has shaped me in unique ways and is a part of my journey.

Website: https://varnellhill.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/varnellhill/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/varnellhill

Other: https://iamveryrisky.com

Image Credits
Photographer- Anthony Minassian