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

Hi Scott, why did you pursue a creative career?
I knew early on, as far back as my college days, that working a traditional 9-5 job would not be for me. I felt called by God to pursue the arts. I had this fire burning inside me to do so. That same flame still burns today. When I sing and perform, I feel at home. Even when I’m doing an acting project, it all feels natural. It’s a very difficult path, but you learn so much about yourself. I don’t think another career could teach me that much about who I am. The merit of growth is something truly special that I can’t find outside of the arts.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a singer-songwriter that has toured and recorded many songs. I love having an arsenal of art to express myself so in addition, I enjoy acting and writing movie scripts. Playing and working on both coasts as a performer has helped me grow exponentially as a person and artist. Over the years, I’ve experienced a ton of rejection in the entertainment industry. As with any profession, or just in life, you are going to have good days and bad ones. I think the most important thing I’ve learned is that through resilience and my faith in God, you find the strength to keep moving forward. I think we learn more about ourselves through the worst days than the best ones. When I couldn’t book a role in a film, it affected me so much that I decided to write and star in my own films. Midway through 2024, I was feeling very down and stagnant about my musical journey. It was at this time that good friends of mine lifted me up and introduced me to my music mentor, Gerald Ishibashi, who then showed me a better way. My mentor taught me to produce my own music bills, but more importantly, to be of service to people and give back to community where everyone benefits. It got me moving again and made a huge difference in my life. You see, through the worst days, you are never truly alone. There are good people out there waiting to lift you up to find that glimmer of hope and inspiration to get you back in the fight!

I am truly happy about the music and films that I have created thus far. I could not have done it without the help and support of family, friends, and mentors. I am most proud of my Dad’s song “The Greatest Man.” It will always be my favorite song that I wrote in honor of my father’s life and legacy. It is my hope that all of my art will help create champions of the world.

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.
Oh man, I love so many spots in Los Angeles. The Griddle Cafe on sunset blvd has excellent breakfast. You won’t find a bigger, tastier pancake than that place. Bobs Diner in Burbank makes a great burger! My friends and I love going there. I also enjoy the 50’s music they play on heavy rotation. Taking long hikes in any Canyon of LA is breathtaking. Runyon is probably the most popular. The views of the city are just amazing. All of the essential beaches especially Malibu, Santa Monica, and Venice make a great Cali experience. Gotta drive up and down Pacific Coast Highway and let that cool breeze blow on ya too! Griffith Observatory is really cool for views and the Hollywood Walk of Fame is fun as well. Definitely the Whisky A Go Go for awesome live music and nightlife. I also highly recommend Hollywood Bowl for concerts and the Rose Bowl in Pasadena for UCLA football. Both are just incredible!

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 am always grateful to God for putting me on this journey. I want to thank my family; especially my father in Heaven for always supporting me through thick and thin. I’d also like to give a big shout out to all of my friends, mentors, and music lovers. You all keep me so grounded and inspired to continue on this artistic path.

Website: https://www.scottrocco.com

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-rocco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scottroccoofficial

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ScottRocco

Image Credits
Photography by Tamara Lee Carroll, Mathias Fau, and Mario Becerra

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