We had the good fortune of connecting with Anthony(Tony) Avery and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Anthony(Tony), can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
The vision for Tony Aye Artistry Foundation Inc. came from my own experiences as an Independent Artist since 2016 but more specifically the experience I had as an Artist during the pandemic. I was very fortunate to still be able to create, perform and overall progress in my music career during this time and I realized it was due, in great part, to the connections and relationship I made. That started to make me think about the severe lack of resources facing independent artists especially those in marginalized communities due to race, sexual orientation, gender, identity, economic status,etc. I wanted to create safe space for Artists to feel supported as well as to grow and develop success in a way that maintained their passion for creating but provided structure financially, professionally and emotionally. Months later we are really walking in that vision and it’s beautiful.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a pop/soul recording artists. My music is lyrically based , I love creating music that you can visualize and that resonates with you in a deeply satisfying way. I’m know for my word play and layered/double meanings in my music. Most importantly to me is my music is always a love letter to the music and culture that inspired me and I strive everyday to keep it as authentic as possible. My road to becoming an artist was challenging I started out as a gospel artist however, as a gay man it was difficult for me to find a platform that would receive me without me hiding elements of who I was. Even then, I found the gospel world to be very restrictive to my expression and as a result to my impact I was able to have. Eventually I got tired of the abuse, the discrimination and hate so I stepped away and embrace my Blackness and my Queerness fully! The major lessons that I’ve learned along the way is 1. Trust your sound and your voice , 2. It’s ok to say no to an opportunity you will find more. 3. Art is subjective so never let anyone invalidate your art because someone in the world is inspired by you! What I want the world to know about my brand and story is that #GayBoySwag is not just about being gay it’s about being comfortable in who you are and what you contribute to the world and having the confidence to know that you deserve to be proud of it.

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?
So I’m addicted to the avenue in White Marsh I love bar hopping between my favorite local spots like bar louie and sitting outside enjoying the sun. Taco Love Grill is an amazing hidden gem that I love to go to on Tuesdays for their cheap tacos and great drinks. For night life we’d go enjoy Capital Lounge which has been a local staple in Baltimore City for years. Also I love going to The Motorhouse which always has amazing events related to the arts as well as Baltimore’s Graffiti Alley where you can take amazing photoshoot. Of course, Baltimore’s Inner harbor is fantastic as well and I love going to the aquarium, ft. meade or to fell’s point for drinks, music and more!

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?
There are so many that I have to shout out because so many were instrumental to my success and growth! First of course my amazing husband Joseph Sothern who for the past 15 years has been a constant source of support, love and strength in everything I do personally and professionally. My best friends Ashley Boyd & LeVar Harris Jr. who believed and invested in my every vision and dream and always our my loudest and most vocal supporters. My friends turned family Anthony Thompson-Shaw, Shontia Bolden, Charles Jones Jr., Jonathan and Warren Bolden who believed in my vision and all served on my Board of Directors and Executive Team. My parents Keith and Kecia Avery for constantly teaching me to find success no matter what my path looked like. Lastly, but certainly not least Alyssia Mayheugh who is pretty much my life blood she is my friend, personal assistant, manager and life coach and she has been instrumental in my growth both professionally and as a person the past year and a half. Anthony Avery, Tony Aye! and Tony Aye Artistry Foundation Inc. would not be here if not for them.

Website: www.tonyaye.com

Instagram: officialtonyaye

Twitter: officialtonyaye

Facebook: https://facebook.com/tonyaye

Youtube: youtube.com/c/tonyaye

Other: If you would like to learn more about my nonprofit Tony Aye Artistry Foundation visit us at: Website: www.tonyayeartistry.com FB: @tonyayeartistry Twitter: @ayeexecutive IG: @tonyayeartists

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.