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

Hi Damu, why did you pursue a creative career?
I tried to fit myself into the conventional lifestyle of the job with a steady income, paid sick leave, vacation time, etc. But 13 years in, I got to a point where I realized I was sleepwalking through life and if I didn’t wake up, I’d miss the whole journey. So, it didn’t seem like much of a choice to pursue an artistic career or not. I just had to accept that I’m an artist and I wasn’t designed for the conventional life.

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 started off as an actor, having graduated from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts – LA, but I also had a deep and abiding love for music and photography. I used to have a certain amount of guilt over being a hyphenate, feeling like I was supposed to choose one thing and become great at it. Ultimately, I realized that was a notion coming from the outside and not my truth at all. I just had to do what moved me. If I was inspired to pick up my camera one day over writing a piece of music, there was a reason and all I had to do was trust in that. I started having an easier time in life letting go of what was expected of me and simply allowing inspiration to guide me. I’ve had success with all three art forms but I’m most proud of finally being able to recognize myself simply as an artist.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Thankfully, my best friends live in LA but if they were just visiting, clearly In-N-Out and Roscoe’s would have to be stops along the way. But one of my personal favorites to eat is Janga by Derrick’s Jamaican Cuisine in Culver City. A Griffith Park hike and observatory visit is definitely on the itinerary. And of course, they must meet and hang with the Lola Crew!!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I had the luxury of being raised by a parent who was/is all-in on my life as an artist. My mother, Robin, supported the wild idea of me walking my own path. I wouldn’t be where I am today without her support. I also have to acknowledge my group of old & new friends known as “The Lola Crew”. We’re a merry band of creatives/artists, who help keep each other in the creative flow. I’d be a politician without them. Whew!

Website: http://www.damumalikphoto.com/

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/damu_malik_photo/

Twitter: http://twitter.com/damumalik

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/DamumalikMusic

Other: http://soundcloud.com/damumalik

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