We had the good fortune of connecting with D’Andre Franklin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi D’Andre, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
An artistic and creative career was decided due to my passion for art & music.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Since retiring from one of the largest luxury home builders in the nation, I have continued on my own as an architectural designer, I have provided services for many homeowners in the Los Angeles area, and with the knowledge of local and state building codes, gives me the confidence in making sure my plans are code compliant. Having homeowners participate in the process gives them the ability to learn and know what to expect during the whole process from start to finish. I treat each client as if they were family, which gives me continuous callbacks for future projects, which is key.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
That would be an easy task, as my best friend is exactly like me and likes the same food, music and sports. I am a huge fan of Mediterranean, Mexican, Italian, Thai and sushi. As you can see I like pretty much anything.
I love going to the beach for walks or just to sit and wave-watch. If there’s a great jazz concert at that time, Hollywood Bowl or local hotel bar and grill with entertainment. I don’t like the big events, I prefer the intimate type crowds.
Most of time I’m just chilling at home, out on the patio, out in other areas of my backyard or in my recording studio.

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?
First and foremost, I would like to thank God for giving me a very loving mom, that assisted in exposing me to the arts & music as a child. Letting me choose the direction that I was interested in and not what she thought I should do or become. Second, my loving wife who herself comes from an artistic and creative background, and has always encouraged and supported my aspirations. Third, my son, who is also an artist/producer himself has been my biggest fan, as I will always be his. Fourth, family and friends who have been there and encouraged me to continue doing what I do, Mentors such as Harold Higa, for teaching me the knowledge I gained in architectural business, James Gadson and Michael Stokes for giving me opportunities in the entertainment industry.

Website: www.abmgmusic.com / www.franklindesignz.com

Instagram: abmgmusic

Image Credits
D’Andre Franklin

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