Meet Torrence BRANNONReese | Artist/Educator/Social Justice Advocate /

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

Hi Torrence, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I was born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, and at an early age, I was exposed to a dynamic culture, that informs who I am and what I contribute to this day. New Orleans, in my humble opinion, is the most culturally, and historically rich city in America, and in many ways, is responsible for America developing as a major nation in this world. For example, the Haitian uprising of the 1790s/1800’s, inspired enslaved people in New Orleans, to embrace the concept of freedom and liberation, which led to numerous uprisings in the region, and the eventual selling of Louisiana (New Orleans being central to political realities in the state) by Emporer Napoleon. The Louisiana Purchase doubled the size of the United States immediately. This is one of several historical occurrences that give me a sense of pride, including the fact that New Orleans (particularly Congo Square) gave birth to Jazz, Blues, and various other forms of American music, The cuisine in New Orleans, IE; Yakkamien, Red Beans & Rice, Gumbo, Char-Broiled Oysters, Jambalaya, etc., attacks folk from around the world. Most importantly, Black people are the architects of these beloved cultural creations, and this being a fact, are responsible for the city’s reputation as a major, international destination, Finally, New Orleans exudes a certain engaging spirit, a strength of character, and an inviting, romantic vibe. For these reasons and many more, my city of birth impacts much of what I contribute educationally, and politically, educationally and in terms of my commitment to social justice and community engagemnt/activism.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As of this writing, I function as a charter member, co-founder, or founder/leader of three musical acts, one being a nationally known acapella vocal ensemble called, Street COrner Renaissance, the other being the 1970’s Sweet-Soul group called,d the Delfonics, and last but not least, an act I launched back in 2000 called, Torrence Brannon & Eveythign with Soul, a band that offers original compositions (written by myself) and covers of classic soul, r & b, funk, jazz, blues, reggae, and super club/more. What sets me apart is that I can do lots of things, almost all at once, and do them well. I am also extremely cognitively intuitive, flexible, and I epitomize the concept of “improvisation” in all that I do, on and off stage. I got to where I am because I know and love myself, and I have no fear, I truly feel that there is nothing I cannot do, and I never doubt myself or second guess myself. Challenges are the most valuable moments/items in life, as we learn, grow, and develop through and because of the challenges we face. I overcame due to a solid spiritual foundation, pride, and adherence to my GOD-given assignment and my vision and sense of purpose; I simply do not feel that anything can stop me, nothing. I have learned that self-knowledge and love of self are integral to success in life, and happiness. I have also learned that it is critical that we give back, teach, mentor, and help people, this is my life’s mission. I want people to know that my sincerity and love of humanity are my greatest assets, and although I’ve achieved an MSW and have been published for my writings, songs, and poetry, I humble myself before a Divine Creator and hold major respect for my elders and ancestors, and work every day to improve the lives and life chances of vulnerable youth, growing up in an often cruel, uncaring world; I believe in them and will do all I can to change conditions to positive for them. My brand, (FA-MLI, Inc., and a plethora of programs, services, events, and activities) has changed the lives of several thousands of human beings over the past 30 years, and of this, I am beyond forever proud and grateful to serve.

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?
I would take to through New Orleans ( I produce an annual tour) and have them enjoy a ride down St. Charles Street on the New Orleans Streecar, the oldest continuously running car in the world. I would then host a lunch cruise down the Mississippi River, and share poetry and stories, while listening too and learning the history of that bed of water from a local historical. Next, I would take them to three of four nice restaurants, where we would dine of Gumbo and yakkamien at my daughter Kandis Torie’s Restaurant, The Yakkamien House (2800 Tulane Ave), and then, stop over at the Free People of Color Museum, where the history of that unique population of Black folks is artistically shared. We would visit the Whitney Slave Plantation and feel the spirits of our ancestors, who sacrificed so that we may live as free human beings today. Next, we would hang out on Frenchman Street, and listen to Jazz, Blues, Country, R&B, Funk, and much more, played by the world’s greatest musicians. There is much more, IE; visit the Jazz Museum, Congo Square, and join/participate in an authentic, New Orleans Second Line parade or procession!

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?
My mother Gwendolyn is tops on my list, she inspired in me and my three brothers, a love of books, reading, and learning, that permeates to this day. Next, after reading the Autobiography of Malcolm X, my sense of service to mankind and self-awareness developed, it is the most compelling book I’ve had the pleasure of reading. Malcolm X endlessly inspires me. Sam Cooke is my favorite musical artist and inspires me also because of his intelligence, and his keen acumen of taking care of his business. Sam started his record label, his own publishing company, and opened up recording studios while signing artists who were deserving of an opportunity. He also stood on principles that resulted in him refusing to sing before segregated audiences, he was very politically aware and engaged. I must also mention James Baldwin, my favorite writer of all time, and I must include Paul Robeson, whose intelligence and commitment to Human Rights is a trait I have adopted as a way of life. There are many more, including my uncle Byron “Tank” Minor, my first available hero, and later, Dr. Earnestine Thomas-Robertson, who is my second mother and a lifelong mentor, a guiding light in my life. My children, Kellie, Kandis, Faleisha, and Jazzmyne, are all inspirations in my life and have helped to shape me as a man.

Website: https://www.famlisoul.org

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/torrence-brannon-reese-4306411ba/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ReeseBrannon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/torrence.reese/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=torrence+brannon+reese%2C

Other: Email me at (famlisoul@gmail.com) and call 323 245.2133 /