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

Hi Temani, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I pursued a creative career because since I was young music has always been my calling. Music has saved my life, given me purpose and allowed me to heal through expressing myself. Although growing up pursuing art wasn’t seen as a “real career”, i’ve never wavered from my path. I’ve never had a plan B and have always trusted that someway somehow I’ll make it where i’m destined to be. I create because i’m drawn to the magic of story telling, world building and crafting moments that feel deeply personal yet universally understood. My journey over the last 10 years as a creative has been everything but easy. What keeps me going is seeing the impact my music has on others and the communities i’ve built and had the pleasure to be a part of.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is deeply personal, blending timeless R&B with influences from gospel and rock. Heavily inspired by the technology of my childhood, I create music and visuals that are raw, honest, and immersive. Every project I create is an extension of myself—a mirror for self-reflection, inviting listeners to see themselves in my journey of love, heartbreak, identity, and healing.

What sets me apart is my willingness to be fully transparent. I write from my own experiences, telling the full story—not just the pretty parts. At the end of the day, I’m human just like my listeners, and there’s comfort in knowing you’re not alone in your experiences. I want my music to be a lens that allows people to see all sides of themselves.

My almost decade-long journey pursuing music has been far from easy. I moved across the country to LA, only to have to move back home and start over. An EP I planned to release in 2020 was lost on a hard drive. I’ve performed at packed shows, and I’ve had shows where I barely sold any tickets. I’ve gone months without being able to afford studio time, fighting just to survive. Everything comes in waves, but I believe I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be. Through all of this, I’ve had life-changing opportunities and built a creative community that is invaluable. Every setback has taught me powerful lessons, and each time, I come back even stronger.

Right now, I’m most excited about finishing and releasing my debut album, More Than I Show. It’s my most personal project yet, and I’m making the best music of my life. As scary as it is, I look forward to being seen and heard in a new way.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
One of my all time favorite spots to eat in LA is Badmsash on Fairfax! Their fried chicken is *chef’s kiss*. I’d also make sure we stop at one of the many Bacari locations and also have a night out on the town in Atwater Village eating at Holy Basil and sliding over to Nico’s for some wine! One of the most fun things I’ve done in LA was actually going on one of the city tours. After being in LA for years I got to see so many things I never would’ve seen if I hadn’t taken that tour! Im very outdoorsy, one of my favorite hikes being Malibu Creek State Park so we’d definitely do that hike and then drive down to the beach! Most days I like to see where the day takes me, being open to anything is the best way to explore LA ! And if i’m lucky one of my friends will be DJ’ing or having an event 🙂

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have to give a huge thank you to my partner, Teddy. They have always been extremely supportive of my music career and have been a vital part of my creation since we met over 3 years ago. All of my photo shoots and videos for my music releases have been shot by them. They’re at every show, even working sound on some. They’re going with me to meet up with strangers from Facebook Market Place for props. They come with me to the studio for emotional support (even though its not always the most exciting). They help me hang my posters up around town. Teddy is extremely bright and creative, and when we come together its so special. I’m super grateful to have them.

Website: https://temanihill.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/temanihill

Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6Tv9s0effx41LXgSPL39Ab

Image Credits
Teddy Berrios, Amina Balgimbayeva

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