Meet Brittney Tarae

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

Hi Brittney, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Though I wasn’t the one who initially started the band, Neighborhood Soul Music quickly became a platform I deeply resonate with. I was brought into the fold by one of the co-founders, JD Bailey, and from the moment I joined, I could feel the power and purpose behind the project. It was clear to me that this wasn’t just a band—it was a community-building movement, one that uses music to bridge emotional gaps and offer people the chance to feel seen and understood. We actually started the band right at the beginning of the 2020 pandemic, which made the journey even more challenging. But we persevered through every obstacle since then—navigating lockdowns, virtual collaboration, and the isolation that came with such a difficult time. What kept us going was our shared belief in the power of music to heal and connect us, especially when the world felt so divided.

My thought process in joining and co-managing the business side of things was rooted in a desire to create something that goes beyond entertainment. Music has always been a way for me to process and connect with my emotions, and I believe deeply in its ability to heal and communicate the things we often can’t say with words. As a Black woman from LA, I’ve felt and witnessed the power of music that speaks directly to raw, unspoken feelings, and I wanted to contribute to building a space where those emotions are honored and shared. Since joining the band, I was also inspired to further my understanding of how to create and nurture community spaces and platforms. This led me to pursue and obtain my master’s degree in Diverse Community Development Leadership. I wanted to deepen my knowledge and skills in developing spaces that foster connection, healing, and growth, just like what we’re building with Neighborhood Soul Music.

In joining the band, I brought my passion for writing, playing keys, and rapping to a collective that already had an important vision. Together, we continue to create music that reflects the raw, unspoken feelings we all carry—because we believe that true connection begins with the courage to be seen as we are. It was about finding a way to contribute to something bigger than myself, a platform that allows us to connect with people who feel deeply but may struggle to express it. So, while I didn’t start the band, my thought process in co-managing and contributing to the creative direction was to help bring our mission to life—creating a space for healing, authenticity, and connection through music.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I transitioned from working in higher education to providing full-time respite care through Maxim Healthcare Services for my loved ones with autism and developmental challenges. It’s something I’m really passionate about because it allows me to work closely with family, and it’s a big part of what keeps me grounded and reminds me of the importance of compassion and care in every aspect of my life. What sets me apart is my ability to blend creativity with service. I’ve always believed in using my gifts—whether it’s through music or my care work—to make others feel seen, heard, and valued. Getting to where I am today hasn’t been easy, but every challenge along the way has taught me something valuable, from the importance of patience and persistence to the need for self-care and balance. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that there’s strength in vulnerability and in leaning on others for support. My journey is all about connection—whether through music or care—and I want the world to know that at the heart of everything I do is the desire to create spaces where people can truly be themselves.

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?
Well I was born and raised in LA, so all my friends are either from here or have been here long enough to call it home— but hypothetically if my new best friend was visiting LA for the week, I’d definitely show them some of my favorite places and things about LA. First on the itinerary, we’re for sure hitting up a Sessions in the Neighborhood jam session by Neighborhood Soul Music. It’s a super intimate, invite-only event where they’d get to the chance to experience some of LA’s finest underground artists and even collaborate with them live. For brunch, we’d probably roll over to Court Cafe. The food is always on point (I love the peach cobbler waffles and orange sherbet mimosas) and they’ve got the perfect playlist that makes it a whole vibe. If we’re craving soul food later, we’re definitely going to Dulan’s— but if we’re on a vegan wave that day, we’d hit up Ora Cafe in Leimert Park, since it’s one of the few all plant-based spots I’ve visited in the city that’s still so flavorful. And if it’s the right time, we’re definitely stopping by Hilltop Coffee to catch Auntie Jamz for the nostalgia and community feel. If they’re in the mood for some shopping, we’d visit Black Market Flea at the Beehive. For the rest of the weekend, I’d be checking out @blkeventsla on IG to see what’s going on around the city that week. Whether it’s a dope pop-up, a party, or an art event, that page is my go-to gem when I want to explore fun community events. We’d probably also hit up Kenneth Hahn Park for a nice day at the park, with some fresh air and a peaceful view of the ducks. Maybe we’d finish the day by catching a sunset at Dockweiler Beach. Honestly LA has so much to offer, so I’d make sure to show my friend the sides of the city that make it feel like home.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to give a huge shoutout to my bandmates—JD Bailey, Vontress Atkins, and Brianna Nix. They’re the heart and soul of Neighborhood Soul Music, and there is no band without each of them. JD was the one who brought me into the mix, and I’m forever grateful for that. His vision, leadership, and unwavering belief in the music and our mission have been a constant source of inspiration. He’s also our co-songwriter and lead vocalist, and his background in poetry and spoken word deeply shapes the way we write and create music.

Vontress is not only our sound engineer and bass player, but he’s also opened his home to serve as our headquarters and practice space. Honestly, we wouldn’t have sound without Von. He is also the founder of the sound production company VA Audio, and his technical expertise, combined with his incredible musical talent, ensures that we are always sounding our best. His generosity and dedication go beyond just the music—he’s a true backbone of this band.

Last but certainly never least, I want to shoutout Dr. Brianna Nix, our drummer and musical director. Bri is the one who keeps the pulse of the band. Her ability to direct and structure our rehearsals and performances has been essential to the growth of the group. She’s a constant source of support and organization, making sure that we stay aligned while also pushing us to bring out the best in ourselves as musicians.

Each of them plays such an important role, and this band wouldn’t be the same without their unique talents and energy. This journey is a reflection of our collective effort, and I’m beyond grateful for their constant dedication, support and commitment. So, this shoutout goes to them because none of this happens without each of us.

Instagram: @tarae.wav and @neighborhoodsoulmusic

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@neighborhoodsoulmusic6128

Image Credits
@PariahVisuals
@DonLeeVisuals
@DevSkeeRocket
@ennck