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

Hi Roann, why did you pursue a creative career?
The reason I’ve decided to pursue my artistic/creative career is because it is what’s truly liberates my soul and spirit. I have worked jobs, one of which made me a really good amount of money and could’ve easily been a career path to settle for, but after years of prioritizing a job over my passion, it started to make me realize how much no amount of happiness could ever amount to my peace and sanity, especially if it meant dedicating myself to a schedule and lifestyle my heart isn’t completely committed to.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
The journey of getting to where I’m at and seek to get to has definitely been challenging. There have been times I questioned if it was even worth continuing, but the overall path has been so beautiful. I think one of the keys is understanding clearly, and exactly WHY you are doing what you’re doing, no matter what that is. As a creative surrounded by millions of other creatives, it’s easy to get lost and forget that you’re your own person and no matter how many other people around you seem like they’re on the same path too, no one is doing it for the same reason or with the same structure as you are.

One thing I do when I become overwhelmed is stepping away for some time and dabbling into other things I love such as cooking or spending time with family & friends. I sometimes have an unhealthy tendency of pressuring myself to be on a schedule to get things done so I feel productive, but when the vibe isn’t there, it isn’t there. Forcing something to happen is far less productive than it is just leaving it alone for the moment. Going off that, a huge lesson I learned and am continuing to learn is the value of rest during my creative process. Balancing and maintaining great health in other aspects of my life such as relationships with friends and family, eating throughout the day, and (trying to) exercise are some key factors that are important to keep up.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting, I would definitely have a field day with all my favorite vegan eateries!! Some MUST HAVES that we would go to are Creamo ice cream in Silverlake, BESTIES Vegan Paradise, Xochitl Vegan for some bomb tacos, and Cupcake Girl for amazing cupcakes and donuts. Los Angeles is like heaven for vegans because theres options in every single area! After we get all this yummy food, we would hang out at Vista Hermosa park for a picnic & beautiful view of downtown, then an obligatory trip to Griffith Observatory (cause who doesn’t come here when they visit LA).

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost, I want to give a huge shoutout to my homie Dom for the shoutout!! He’s so kind hearted and means well. Always supporting the things I’m doing!

I have the most amazing support system all over California, especially in San Diego. All my best friends and family in San Diego, especially my partner, never miss. Always there to support a performance, any video or song releases, SYNERGY.SD, buying merchandise, or even simply being there for me when I need some extra TLC.

Musically, a few people I want to shoutout are my friend, and amazing artist, Amon (@amonrahh). We’ve connected tremendously in the last year. It feels like we have known each other for lifetimes. He’s shown me genuine love and support from the day we connected and has helped me grow so much as an artist this last year alone. Whether it’s through putting me on business game, introducing me to some folks, or just supporting me at music sessions, he never fails to show how much he’s there for and supports me. My friend and engineer Jag (HMRN Studios, @jagonthebeat)! I don’t think Jag knows exactly how much I appreciate him. He’s taken the time to really study my craft and meticulousness when it comes to recording. When I first started making music, Jag was so patient with me as I learned to navigate through understanding and learning the process of being a recording artist. I also want to give some recognition to Cristal of Cristal Clarity Studios (@mixedbycristal, @cristalclaritystudio). We have only started working together recently, but Cristal has been an amazing mentor throughout the process. Always so supportive and puts me onto other people who she feels can help excel my stance as a musician/artist. Cristal and Jag are also just the coolest, most laid back people I have ever met, but at the same time are beasts at engineering! Lastly, I want to shoutout my manager, Hustle Simmons. We’re only getting started on this journey together, but Hustle is extremely charismatic and always knows how to gracefully snap my head back into shape when I need it. He wants the best for me and doesn’t let me doubt it at all.

Website: www.roannmesina.com

Instagram: instagram.com/roannmesina // @roannmesina

Twitter: twitter.com/roannmesina

Facebook: facebook.com/roannromesina

Youtube: youtube.com/roannmesina

Image Credits
Veejzilla Kyle Thompson (threehoursago) Shea Reswig

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