Meet S’von: Musician & Producer

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

Hi S’von, what habits do you feel play an important role in your life?
One of the most overlooked habits that everyone should possess for success is, follow through. It sounds simple. However, a lot of us (especially creatives) don’t value or do it. Return all texts, phone calls and emails. Just being consistent with follow ups makes you stand out and it is so easy to do. A lot of times, people only respond according to their enthusiasm about the project or situation. We don’t realize that this is your first impression. We don’t realize that there were several calls out to multiple people for the same spot. We don’t realize that everyone is busy. The more eager and enthusiastic you appear to be, the more a person that is making the decisions will lean your way. Don’t inundate people with multiple calls, texts and emails…just follow up promptly and consistently and you will be surprised how many people will notice that and remember you. And, it doesn’t cost you anything.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am most proud of the person that I have evolved into. I didn’t know that I would end up in LA and I didn’t know that I would be in the music business. I literally was/am just a fan of music. I wanted to continually develop my talent so that I could be better…for me. Making the transition from St. Louis, to Jackson Mississippi, to Los Angeles was definitely a culture shock. And, you learn fast on how much of the politics and business side of things that you need to master…in order to survive. You can’t manage it with just talent alone. You are taught the opposite in the beginning. You are told repeatedly that if you are good enough, you will make it. But, it takes more than that. It takes commitment to learning and growing, consistency, networking, and a very strong belief in your self and where you are going. If you aren’t self aware and grounded, it can be challenging staying with it. During my first year and a half in Los Angeles, I couldn’t book anything to save my life. I felt like I met so many musicians, agents, managers, A&R’s and….nothing. It felt like I couldn’t even play anywhere for free. Until…one day, someone gave me a shot. And, I never looked back.

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.
If I had some friends come to visit, I would have to keep it on the music side of things. I would definitely hit up Hotel Cafe to catch the singer songwriter vibe. I would also have to check out performances from my friends on any night of the week. You have to get some beach time…during the week only. The weekend is for tourists. lol. You have to get some Jerk chicken from Sat Down. Oh, and the Chicken a la Provenzal from Lala’s is always on point. On a late night run, Fatburger is mandatory. As for other live venues, the pandemic has shifted who is still open. So, I can’t wait to see what’s the same and what’s new.

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?
This is a classic answer. But, my high school music instructor, Dr. Diane Smoot. She definitely went above and beyond to make sure that she put me in front of every musical opportunity that she could find.

Website: www.svononline.com

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