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

Hi SaifLove, can you share the most important lesson you’ve learned over the course of your career?
There are many lessons my career has taught me over the years. If I could break it down into two things I’d say first, you are your own toughest critic and second, consistency is key.

When you’re creating a piece of art, it’s very easy to be insecure about it or think it’s not good enough. You’re literally taking a small idea from your mind, creating it (in my case music), and sharing it with the world. That can be scary. You tell yourself things like, “my voice doesn’t sound good”. “My hair looks terrible in this photo.” We as humans realize all the flaws in ourself before anyone else does, so it’s natural to look at those things and want to fix them. I’ve learned that other people just don’t see you the way you do. What we think may be a flaw of ours, others may think they’re great attributes or more times than not, not even notice.

Regardless of what industry you’re in, consistency is important. Without it, how can you truly grow and become successful in your industry? Consistency to me means showing up everyday. Putting in work when you’re “too tired” or “don’t feel like it.” I think consistency is what separates the good from the great. Those that have the discipline to show up everyday have a longer more lucrative career.

These two lessons seem simple but have truly helped me earlier in my career and still to this day.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My name is SaifLove, I’m a singer/songwriter. I make a combination of R&B, Pop, and House music. I’ve been in the music industry releasing music on all major platforms for about 3 years. So far in my music career, I’m most proud of releasing a single, “Toxic”, that is about to surpass half a million streams on Spotify. That was a pretty big moment for me as it is the first song of mine to reach that number.

I got to where I am today by believing in myself, putting in the work, and having a great support system in my corner. It wasn’t easy by any means and still isn’t. I had to go through a lot of self-doubt, rejection, and many other emotions before experiencing any of the successes or moments of glory I’ve had thus far.

I’m most excited for what this year has in store. In the coming months, I will be releasing some of the best music I’ve made up to this point in my career. I have Pop, R&B, and House singles dropping. Starting in March all the way through August. I was even lucky enough to gain the interest of a few record labels with one of the singles.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
First, I’d have to take them to the studio with me. Makes some music and enjoy a good vibe with good people! Depending on the time of year, I would get tickets to a Lakers or Rams game. I grew up playing basketball my entire life and so did most of my friends, so it would most likely be a Lakers game.

A little cliche but, I’d have to take my best friend to see the Hollywood sign and/or the Santa Monica pier if they haven’t been before. Maybe take a little hike so they can see the city from up there. I always love driving through the hills as well, especially on a nice sunny day. So we would have to do that.

In terms of food, again, it would all depend on if they’ve been to LA before. For example, if they’ve never been to In & Out, we would have to get food there. I feel like that’s a place everyone should try once in their life. A dinner spot I really enjoy that is locally owned is Firefly on Ventura Blvd. Great atmosphere and phenomenal food! For brunch, WeHo Bistro is a great place and great location in West Hollywood!

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?
I dedicate my shoutout to my mother. The strongest, most caring, and determined person I’ve ever met. Everything I have, all my successes wouldn’t exist if it weren’t for her. Not only has she taught me so many valuable lessons but was my number 1 supporter. She instilled confidence in me, always encouraged me to chase my dreams, and strive to be the best version of myself. She made who made me who I am today and I wouldn’t be here without her.

Website: saiflove.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamsaiflove/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/iamsaiflovee

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Iamsaiflove-232691407653748

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvJeDhJx-M6qVQPuY981MLg

Other: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3Dz0f730wRRuOTGBx4jLUD Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/saiflove/1468723933

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.