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

Hi XNK, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I think risk taking is crucial for my personal happiness and well being. I remember before ever trying to become a creative, I was working at an office job in sales. The pay was great, but I found myself dreading the days. A friend of mine called me and offered me a job. Manual labor, outside, small business type of thing. I took the opportunity and risked my income that I was making in sales. I took roughly a 50% cut in income. However, I had never been happier or more willing to work harder. The fresh air, self management, and working with a friend more than made up for the income cut I took. As of yet I am not a wealthy person in regards to money. My risk taking more involves my quality of life. As a musician/artist I have risked a steady income, possibly a stable household I exchange to travel the world and entertain people. I have found that the risks I have taken and continue to take challenge me and have taught me how to find fulfillment in many aspects of my life.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I started XNK when I was studying abroad. I took a week from school and went to Paris. It is absolutely difficult to start your own business. Obstacles and challenges are presented all of the time. I just try and keep my head up. Friends are a great way to decompress too.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I bartend on the side at a Mexican place in Beverly Hills. I’d take them there to meet the crew, head up to the speakeasy, dance and relax a bit. Go to the Santa Monica beach. The Baked Potato and/or Cantina Jazz club to nerd out on some music. Take the longboards around some of the parks and roads in the canyons. Motorcycle ride up the coast out past Malibu.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Oh dang, there are many I could put on this list. I am incredibly lucky to have the friends that I have. Blake, Hayden, Hannah, Cortnay, Aaron, Tyler, Courtney, Gabo, Axl. Gotta give some love to the momma.

As far as artist shoutout. Lagarto is for sure someone you should check out. Incredible guy, very hardworking.

Website: https://www.xnkmusic.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stain.it.black.xnk/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-clure-37a711183/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwb98FPbrnq4flzhA1UwFtw

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