Meet Damian Hawkins | Music Artist | Actor | Personal Chef

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

Hi Damian, why did you pursue a creative career?
I’ve always been drawn to expression and creating experiences for others, and music, acting, and cooking are all ways I can bring that to life. Music and acting allow me to channel emotions, tell stories, and connect with audiences on a deep level, while cooking lets me create tangible, sensory experiences that bring people joy and comfort. Each of these fields challenges me to think creatively and bring my vision to life, which has always been something I’m passionate about.

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.
My career is a testament to self-belief, perseverance through life’s expected and unexpected challenges, and unwavering faith in the Most High. I’ve reached this point professionally through hard work, authenticity, and strong networking skills. Was it easy? Far from it, but it was all meant to be!

This journey included losing my inherited home in January due to the greed and malice of a distant relative. Navigating near-homelessness in a place full of “so-called friends”. Even losing everything I owned after being misled into relocating temporarily. Ultimately, I found my “chosen family,” a small group of individuals that have transformed my view of humanity and helped me heal from life’s harsh realities.

Among the most valuable lessons I’ve learned are to remain steadfast in faith, to hold my head high, even when all I could see was the ground, and to understand that while I wasn’t always content with my own life, my existence holds meaning for others.

In addition to overcoming major depression and severe anxiety to acting on major TV shows and appearing in millions of households, to creating music and performing for hundreds. I’ve realized that life will throw curveballs, but it’s up to us to redirect them in our favor.

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?
Here’s the week I’d plan to give my best friend the ultimate LA experience:

Day 1: Iconic Hollywood

• Republique for breakfast – incredible pastries to kick off the week.
• Hit up the West Hollywood Night Life and checkout The Abbey
• Mama Shelter rooftop for sunset drinks with views of the Hollywood sign.

Day 2: Venice & Santa Monica

• Gjusta in Venice for a chill brunch with awesome smoked fish.
• Explore Venice Beach & the Boardwalk – people-watching, quirky shops, and street art.
• Dinner at Elephante for Mediterranean food with ocean views in Santa Monica.

Day 3: Art & DTLA Vibes

• Getty Museum or LACMA – can’t miss these iconic spots.
• Lunch at Grand Central Market – try everything!
• Explore the Arts District

Day 4: Malibu Day

• Hike Runyon Canyon in the morning for those city views.
• Lunch at Nobu Malibu – amazing sushi with the best ocean view.
• Relax on Zuma Beach or El Matador Beach for Malibu’s laid-back vibe.

Day 5: Downtown & Rooftops

• Stroll through DTLA – for the views and historic sights.
• Lunch at Bottega Louie – beautiful pastries and delicious Italian.
• Drinks at Perch rooftop – perfect views over Downtown LA.

Day 6: Studio Tour & Beverly Hills

• Warner Bros. Studio Tour for a peek behind the scenes.
• Window-shop on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills.
• Dinner at Craig’s – classic LA with a chance to spot other celebs.

Day 7: Sunday Funday Farewell

• Brunch at Soul Brunch Los Angeles. Featuring some of the best Creole and Louisiana inspired dishes.
• Chill at The Grove – a perfect spot to wander and relax.
• Wrap up with dinner at Catch LA – rooftop views and a stylish send-off.

With this mix of LA’s best food, culture, and views, my friend would get a taste of all sides of the city!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I dedicate this article to everyone who played a crucial role in helping me sustain my mental, physical, and spiritual strength throughout this year as I navigated the most significant journey of my life. Especially Theresa Gardner, Andre’ Hammonds, Josie Reyes, Latisha “Doreen” Pastures, Dorlisa Thomas, Ronnie Mitchell, Nikaya “ND” Brown Jones, Shoneji Robinson, Tridestined Studios and all of my dedicated fans!

Instagram: iam_dhawkins

Twitter: @iam_dhawkins

Facebook: Damian Hawkins

Youtube: @iam_dhawkins

Other: Apple Music: D.Hawkins

Spotify: D.Hawkins