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

Hi Diamond, putting aside the decision to work for yourself, what other decisions were critical to your success?
My faith played a big part in my decision to pursue music full-time. I felt called to take a gap year and dive into the music industry. At first, I was hesitant because the entertainment industry, specially the arts can be hard to break into. However, overtime i decided to follow God’s path and I wouldn’t have it any other way!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m a singer/songwriter from Los Angeles, California. I’ve been singing and writing music since I was about 6 years old, performing little shows with my brother in front of our parents. I did talent shows, began singing in our church band, and eventually started pursuing music full-time when I graduated college. I’m proud of my tenacity and creativity. Over the years I’ve been able to create many different songs, experimenting with styles of music, and growing in songwriting. Something unexpected was starting my business, Tiny Backyard. Tiny Backyard is a show that amplifies independent artists and exposes them to a diverse audience. We’ve been very successful so far and I can’t wait to see the opportunities that arise from that. Professionally, I started from the ground up. There was no particular opportunity that led me to where I am today, I just did a lot of research on performing, producing, and learning how to hone my craft. This was not easy. At times, there’s discouragement from not seeing instant results or success, but I’ve learned that the music business takes time and within that time, you improve, meet people, and continue to shine. There were some challenges to overcome. Before I decided to do music full-time, I had a full-time job. Juggling the schedule of an 8-5 workload with a 2-hour commute was not easy. However, I took advantage of every opportunity to perform and release music. A lot of times, I stayed up later and worked on a new song or practiced for a gig. Sometimes you have to make sacrifices for your dreams. One of the biggest things I have learned is that I am fully capable of achieving my goals. No matter what room you’re in, you belong in that room. It’s also important to admire people’s success, and gifts, rather than compare. I want the world to know that they are validated, heard, and loved through my music. I hope my music can bring a sense of relatability and comfort to those who listen.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my friend was visiting the Los Angeles area, I would show them the most famous cities in LA which are Hollywood, Malibu, and maybe we’ll take a side venture to Ventura or Santa Barbara County. We would eat at Elefante or this cute little restaurant in Eagle Rock called “Little Beast “. I would show them Santa Monica Pier and go on all of the rides. We would have to ride a Bird scooter because that’s a necessity and they’re always fun. We would go to the Malibu and swim in the ocean. In Hollywood, we would walk down Vine, and see all the stars and slight chaos on the Hollywood strip. I’d also take them to Beverly Hills on Rodeo Drive so they can see the boujiness of Los Angeles and we can admire our future spending habits. I would describe myself as a fairly chill person, but I also like adrenaline rushes, so I would take them to Catalina Island, and go zip lining! Shoutout to the Catalina Island zip line crew, they’re incredible. Lastly, we’d have to go to an Indie concert because they’re intimate and we’d most likely meet the band at the end of the show. We’d end the night with street tacos.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to shout out my mom for supporting me throughout this journey. My dad for cheering me on and providing wisdom. My siblings, Chauncy, Kayla, and Brandon for always lifting me and encouraging me to follow my dreams. My best friends Angie and Emily for being my rocks and pursuing my goals with me. Sabrina for being an inspiration to me and bringing light into my life. To the entire Tiny Backyard Show team, Jonathan, Corey, Joe, Jimmie, and everyone who has helped TB become the event that it is today. Lastly, I’d like to thank Justin, who’s been all of the above and beyond, you always lift me and are my number one fan. I love you all.

Website: diamondlongs.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/diamondlongs?igshid=MzMyNGUyNmU2YQ==

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@diamondlongs?si=WBheNvr4sLEJmyOD

Other: Spotify: https://spotify.link/j8kFQeZ1CDb Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/diamond-longs/1509392378

Image Credits
Bianca Cruz

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