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What happens when an artist refuses to stay in one genre? Jamar Green, aka Black Bullet X, went from death metal to hip-hop—and his journey challenges the idea that musicians have to fit neatly into one box.On this episode of Deeper Than Music with Markivus, Jamar Green sits down with Markivus Nious for a conversation about his evolution as an independent artist, crossing genre boundaries, dealing with criticism, and using modern technology to create music without waiting for the traditional industry to give him permission.Jamar takes us inside his creative process and explains how his experiences with death metal, hip-hop, live performance and independent music have shaped the artist he is today.We also get into something independent artists don’t talk about enough: the business behind the music. Jamar discusses financial awareness, building for the long term, and why creativity alone isn’t enough when you’re trying to establish a sustainable career.Plus, we talk about his upcoming “Relax” EP, the importance of storytelling, and the legacy he ultimately wants his music to leave behind.  JOIN THE CONVERSATION: Do you think artists still get pressured to stay inside one genre? And what’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced while creating or pursuing music? Drop your thoughts in the comments.  SUBSCRIBE to Deeper Than Music with Markivus for conversations with independent artists, creators and industry voices about the stories, struggles and business behind the music. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction 00:39 Jamar’s journey from death metal to hip-hop 01:40 How live performances changed his musical direction 02:44 Inside Jamar’s songwriting and creative process 05:51 Breaking genre boundaries and audience expectations 10:39 Why storytelling matters in music 17:44 The upcoming “Relax” EP 20:01 Why artists need financial awareness 23:07 The legacy Jamar wants to leave behind #BlackBulletX #HipHop #IndependentArtist #DeathMetal #MusicIndustry Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/deeper-than-music-with-markivus--2705530/support.

How do you chase your passion when life is completely full? 🤯 Join us for an inspiring conversation with author Shawniece Hall as she shares how she balances motherhood, a demanding career as a CNA, and her deep passion for writing. Discover the transformative power of storytelling, how adversity shaped her warrior spirit, and how she uses her books, "Unbreakable" and "Flames," as vehicles for healing and escapism. 💬 What's your biggest challenge with balancing creativity and life? Drop it in the comments below! 👉 Subscribe for more inspiring stories and deep dives with authors and creatives:  Youtube:  @Markivus Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:34 Meet Shawniece Hall 01:28 The balance of motherhood and writing 02:43 The magic of books and escapism 04:38 How adversity shaped her as an author 06:51 The role of psychology in her writing 08:11 The essence of "Unbreakable" 10:22 The warrior spirit in her work 12:46 Character inspiration in her novels 14:44 Writing process and creativity 16:48 The impact of technology on society 19:05 The importance of reading 20:25 Pursuing what sets your soul on fire 22:18 Upcoming projects and where to find her #ShawnieceHall #Unbreakable #AuthorJourney #WritingCommunity #AuthorInterview #WorkingMoms #Resilience Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/deeper-than-music-with-markivus--2705530/support.

Dive deeper into the business, the hustle, and the soul of the music industry! 🎶 On this episode of Deeper Than Music with Markivus, we sit down with Nine Side—an incredible artist and engineer who made the massive leap from North Carolina to Chicago to carve out his own sound. We pull back the curtain on his creative journey, discussing how the pandemic completely shifted his path, how he stays authentic in a world full of algorithms, and his take on the massive influence of AI in music today. Plus, Nine Side drops crucial advice for independent artists on why you MUST own your masters and how to build a fanbase that actually sticks by you. 👇 JOIN THE CONVERSATION: What is your absolute biggest challenge with music or staying creative right now? Drop it in the comments below—let's talk about it! If you want more raw insights into the music industry and want to follow Nine Side's journey, make sure to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the notification bell! 🕒 TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - Introduction 00:54 - Moving to Chicago & Shifting Environments 02:14 - Music vs. Athletics: The Mindset 03:45 - Breaking Down Recent Singles 04:12 - Chasing Pure Authenticity in Music 06:08 - How the Pandemic Impacted the Hustle 10:20 - Influences, Engineering, & Creative Process 12:56 - Will AI Destroy or Help the Music Industry? 17:52 - The Crucial Importance of Independence (Owning Masters) 20:46 - Real Challenges as a Modern Creative 22:15 - The Blueprint to Building a Loyal Fanbase 25:01 - What Music Deeply Means to Nine Side 26:16 - Future Projects and Upcoming Collaborations #NineSide #DeeperThanMusic #Markivus #IndependentArtist #MusicIndustry #OwnYourMasters #MusicInterview #ChicagoMusic #AIInMusic #MusicProducer #IndieMusician Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/deeper-than-music-with-markivus--2705530/support.

How do you take an iconic classic song and completely reinvent it? 🤔🎶 We sit down with award-winning artist and educator Carl Brister to look behind the curtain of his music creation process! In this deep dive, Carl shares the incredible inspiration behind his reimagined version of the classic hit "Hello," and the story behind covering Janet Jackson's "Let's Wait a While." Carl also breaks down how he founded Music Village to empower the next generation of creators, his collaborative work with his son Jordan J. Maestro, and why arts in education is more critical now than ever before. If you want to learn how music serves as a universal language that uplifts and connects us all, this is a must-watch masterclass! 🚀✨ 💬 Join the conversation: What is your absolute biggest challenge when it comes to music creation or writing? Drop your struggles in the comments below and let's help each other out! 🔔 Hit subscribe for more inspiring music discussions, masterclasses, and artist insights! ---------------------------------------- 🕒 Video Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction00:23 - Carl Brister on his reimagined "Hello"00:52 - The genesis of his music journey02:15 - Covering Janet Jackson's "Let's Wait a While"04:19 - The founding of Music Village06:20 - The importance of arts in education09:15 - Collaborating with his son, Jordan J. Maestro11:36 - Advice for young creators12:56 - What inspires Carl Brister14:25 - Carl's musical influences18:28 - The process of reimagining songs21:20 - Carl's legacy and what music means to him24:20 - Where to find Carl and his upcoming projects#CarlBrister #MusicEducation #UniversalLanguage #SongwriterLife #JanetJackson #lionelrichie #MusicInterview Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/deeper-than-music-with-markivus--2705530/support.

Dive deep into the vibrant South Carolina hip hop scene with I AM BIG FIT on this episode of the Deeper Than Music with Markivus Podcast! In this episode, we explore the unique blend of Southern Soul and Boom Bap that defines the South Carolina sound. I AM BIG FIT shares his musical journey, the evolution of music technology from cassettes to streaming, and critical advice for independent artists looking for longevity in the music industry. ✨ Key takeaways from this episode: • The inspiration behind I AM BIG FIT's latest track and Columbia's line dancing scene. • A breakdown of the SC hip hop sound, from gospel roots to trap beats. • Insights into how music tech changed from vinyl and cassettes to streaming platforms. • Crucial advice for aspiring artists on building a long-term music career. 💬 CHALLENGE OF THE DAY: What is your biggest challenge in the music industry right now? Drop your thoughts in the comments below! 🔔 SUPPORT THE PODCAST: Subscribe to the channel for more deep dives into hip hop culture, artist interviews, and music industry insights! [Insert your subscription link here] ⏱️ TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Introduction 00:15 Inspiration behind the track 01:12 The South Carolina hip hop sound 02:55 The evolution of music technology 11:26 Vinyl vs. streaming 15:36 Longevity in the music industry #HipHop #SouthCarolinaHipHop #MusicIndustry #IAMBIGFIT #DeeperThan Music #IndependentArtist #MusicProduction #BoomBap #SouthernSoul Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/deeper-than-music-with-markivus--2705530/support.

How does a poet become one of North Carolina's sharpest hip hop producers? 🎧 In this episode of Deeper Than Music, we sit down with Charlotte-based lyricist and producer Julian Argo to break down his incredible artistic evolution. From his early days experimenting with poetry to crafting the raw, gritty sound that defines Charlotte's underground hip hop scene, Julian gives us an unfiltered look into his creative process. We dive into the balancing act of being both an MC and a beatmaker, how technology is changing the music industry, and why staying authentic matters more than chasing social media clout. 💬 WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: What’s your biggest challenge when it comes to finding your own unique sound? Do you struggle more with the lyrics or the production? Drop your thoughts in the comments below! 👇 Subscribe to the channel for weekly deep dives, artist interviews, and insider insights into the world of music and creativity: https://www.youtube.com/@Markivus 📌 TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 - Introduction 00:20 - Julian's background and influences 01:52 - The Charlotte hip hop sound 03:10 - Julian's creative process 04:44 - Transitioning from MC to producer 06:21 - The importance of true fans 08:01 - Technology's impact on artistry 10:12 - Balancing art and social media 12:59 - Activism and music 16:29 - Restoring creativity #JulianArgo #CharlotteHipHop #MusicProducer #DeeperThanMusic #HipHopInterview #IndieArtist #CreativeProcess #NorthCarolinaMusic #RapperInterview Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/deeper-than-music-with-markivus--2705530/support.

Unlock the secrets of the music industry with Dani Felt! 🎶 In this episode of Deeper Than Music, we dive into the importance of understanding the business side of music and how it can empower artists to thrive. Dani, a pop singer, songwriter, entrepreneur, and author of "Becoming Unstoppable," shares her journey and insights on navigating the industry. Key takeaways: The significance of knowing the music business to avoid being taken advantage of.How to build a strong brand and marketing strategy in a competitive landscape.The power of networking and connecting with others in the industry.Overcoming perfectionism to take action and share your art.Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:56 Dani's journey into the music industry 02:15 The importance of business knowledge for artists 03:22 Networking and building relationships 04:36 Overcoming perfectionism in creativity 11:42 Common mistakes creatives make What's your biggest challenge in the music industry? Drop it in the comments! Subscribe for weekly insights and tips on navigating the music business! #MusicIndustry #BecomingUnstoppable #DaniFelt #MusicIndustry #MusicBusiness #IndependentArtist #MusicMarketing #DaniFelt #BecomingUnstoppable #DeeperThanMusic #ArtistEmpowerment #MusicCareer #SingerSongwriter Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/deeper-than-music-with-markivus--2705530/support.

Is country music losing its soul? J.R. Vance thinks it’s time for a renaissance. In this episode of My Deeper Than Music, Markivus sits down with the "Gypsy Cowboy" himself, J.R. Vance. From picking up his first guitar at age six to fronting Bourbon Sun, J.R. has always been drawn to the spotlight—but his true mission is deeper than the stage. We’re diving into the "rebel soul" of storytelling, the influence of legends like Waylon and Hank, and why J.R. believes we need to ditch the tech and get back to live, authentic instrumentation. In this episode, we discuss: ✨ The Early Spark: Performing "Stairway to Heaven" in high school and the call of the AM radio.🐎 The Gypsy Cowboy: How ancestral roots and a free spirit shape his songwriting.🥃 Bourbon Sun: Lessons learned from the tri-state circuit (including why you shouldn't wear jewelry while shredding!).🔄 The Great Return: Why J.R. walked away from music in college and what finally called him back to the stage."It's time for us to get back to what country really is." Tune in to hear how J.R. Vance is revitalizing the essence of country music through grit, truth, and a whole lot of heart. #DeeperThanMusic #MarkivusInterviews #JRVance #CountryMusic #SingerSongwriter #NewMusic #BehindTheMusic #GypsyCowboy #TraditionalCountry #Storytelling #BourbonSun #RealCountryMusic #NashvilleBound #RebelSoul #CountryArtist #MusicInterview #Americana #ClassicCountryVibes #AuthenticMusic #MusicPodcast Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/deeper-than-music-with-markivus--2705530/support.

Summary In this conversation, Derrick Neal Spruill shares his journey from a VR animated series to traditional filmmaking. He discusses the challenges and realities of the film industry, the importance of location in filmmaking, and his experiences working on various projects. Derrick emphasizes the significance of finding inspiration in personal life and the creative process, as well as the importance of taking risks and stepping out of comfort zones. He also shares insights into his future aspirations and projects, including his first feature film script. Chapters 00:00 The Journey into VR and Filmmaking 02:42 Transitioning from VR to Traditional Filmmaking 05:16 Challenges and Breakthroughs in Filmmaking 07:59 The Art of Storytelling in Music Videos and Short Films 10:51 Capturing the Spirit of Louisville in Film 13:21 Documentary Filmmaking and Working with Unique Subjects 14:33 Diverse Creative Endeavors 16:27 Navigating Job Satisfaction and Career Growth 18:12 Memorable Experiences in Film 20:13 Lessons Learned and Advice for Aspiring Creatives 21:52 The Importance of Time and Family 23:50 Turning Challenges into Opportunities 25:06 Embracing Uncertainty and Growth 26:51 Future Aspirations and Projects 29:14 v3.mp4 Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/deeper-than-music-with-markivus--2705530/support.

The conversation covers the band's name, the meaning behind it, influences, the transition from a wedding band to original music, the experience in wedding bands, influences and musical background, and the creative process and inspiration behind songwriting. The conversation delves into the experience of being a street performer, the challenges of finding bandmates, the creative process, recording and discography, songwriting, the inspiration behind 'The Dash', artistic integrity, the importance of lyrics and mood in music, the impact of instrumentation on song delivery, future plans and musical direction, and the meaning of music and songwriting challenges. Takeaways - Influences and Inspiration - Transition from Wedding Band to Original Music - Creative Process Expressing emotions through music - Challenges of songwriting Chapters - 00:00 Creative Process and Inspiration - 28:12 The Meaning of Music and Songwriting Challenges Tags: Low Stakes, Singer-Songwriter, Music Journey, New Hampshire Music, Podcast Highlights, Eric Interview, Creative Process, Songwriting, Musical Influences. #Inspiration #CreativeJourney #NewHampshire #Songwriting #BehindTheMusic #ArtistLife #MusicLovers Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/deeper-than-music-with-markivus--2705530/support.

Title: Finding Your Rhythm: The Transformative Power of Music and Personal Resilience Introduction:  In a world where music often serves as a backdrop to our lives, it can also be a powerful catalyst for change. In a recent episode of the podcast "Deeper than Music," host Markivus Nious sat down with Chase Thayer, a passionate hip-hop artist turned life coach, to explore how music has shaped his journey and the profound impact it can have on our lives. This blog post delves into Chase's story, highlighting key moments that illustrate the healing power of music, the struggles of addiction, and the importance of self-discovery. The Early Years: A Love for Music Chase Thayer's love for music began at a young age, with Michael Jackson serving as his first musical idol. He recalls watching a VHS tape of Jackson's music videos repeatedly, mimicking his moves and dreaming of a life filled with music. As Chase grew older, he immersed himself in hip-hop culture, recording his favorite tracks from the radio onto cassette tapes. His passion for music was not just a hobby; it was a lifeline, providing an escape from the challenges he faced growing up in a strict religious environment. The Struggles: From Sports to Addiction Chase's journey took a sharp turn when he faced devastating personal loss and the pressures of a high-stakes sports career. After suffering an injury, he was prescribed painkillers, which led to a decade-long battle with addiction. The transition from a promising athlete to someone grappling with substance abuse left Chase feeling lost and disconnected from his identity. He candidly shares how music became a refuge during this tumultuous time, allowing him to express his emotions and cope with his struggles. Turning Point: Asking for Help The turning point in Chase's life came when he realized he needed to confront his demons. In a moment of vulnerability, he reached out for help—a decision that marked the beginning of his recovery journey. This pivotal choice not only altered the course of his life but also reignited his passion for music. As he began to heal, he found himself freestyling to his children, blending creativity with parenting and rediscovering the joy that music had brought him in his youth. Building a New Identity: From Music to Mentorship Chase's experiences led him to pursue a career in helping others navigate their own challenges. He transitioned from being an artist to becoming a life coach, leveraging his unique insights to guide families facing addiction. Through his work, he emphasizes the importance of genuine care and the need for effective support systems in the recovery process. His story exemplifies how personal struggles can evolve into a mission to uplift others, turning past adversity into a powerful testimony of resilience. Conclusion: Key Takeaways Chase Thayer's journey is a testament to the healing power of music and the importance of self-discovery. His story reminds us that while we may face significant challenges, we can find our way back to ourselves through creativity and connection. Music can serve as both a refuge and a source of inspiration, helping us navigate the complexities of life. By sharing his experiences, Chase not only highlights the universal language of music but also encourages others to embrace their unique journeys towards healing and empowerment. Tags: #MusicTherapy #PersonalGrowth #HipHopCulture #AddictionRecovery #LifeCoaching #MentalHealth #Inspiration #Resilience #ChaseThayer #DeeperThanMusic Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/deeper-than-music-with-markivus--2705530/support.

In the world of music, every note tells a story, and behind every great song, there lies a creative journey filled with passion, learning, and collaboration. In a recent episode of Deeper Than Music Radio, host Markivus Nious sat down with Anthony Church, a producer, songwriter, and podcaster with a decade of experience in the industry. This blog post delves into their conversation, exploring Anthony's journey into music production, his influences, and his vision for the future of Ohio's music scene. Section 1: The Early Days of Music Production   Anthony Church's foray into music began around 2016, right after high school. With a passion for hip-hop but lacking the skills to rap or write songs, he turned to music production as a way to get involved in the industry. "I knew I couldn't really rap for sure... so I kind of lean into, well, how do I get involved like making the music?" he shared. With the help of FL Studio and some YouTube tutorials, he started creating beats, learning alongside a friend who rapped, and slowly honing his craft. Section 2: Influences that Shaped Anthony's Sound   As Anthony developed his skills, he drew inspiration from some of the biggest names in the industry. Early on, he admired Kanye West for his innovative production style and ability to collaborate with various artists. "Kanye was an influence as an artist, but as a producer too," Anthony noted. Other influential figures included Hitboy, Timbaland, and DJ Dahi, each of whom helped shape his understanding of production and the creative process. Anthony recounted a memorable moment from high school when he presented a Hitboy video to his class, hoping to share his passion for music production. "Nobody knew what this was... but I still remember showing that in the class," he laughed. Section 3: The Ohio Sound and Community   When discussing the music scene in Ohio, Anthony shared his initial doubts about local talent. "I thought there was no talent around here at all," he admitted. However, as he connected with more artists in his area, he discovered a vibrant community of independent musicians across various genres. "There's definitely a lot of awesome independent artists... especially like toward where I'm at," he said, highlighting the gritty, honest nature of Ohio's sound. He believes it reflects the hardworking spirit of the Midwest, characterized by sample-based music and a blue-collar ethos. Section 4: Future Aspirations and Projects   Looking ahead, Anthony is considering an exciting project that embodies the Ohio sound. He envisions an album featuring local artists, capturing the essence of their experiences and the unique qualities of their music. "I want to make it to where the artists are kind of giving that vulnerability, that honesty in the music," he explained. This project aims to showcase the diversity of Ohio's music scene while creating a collective identity for its artists. Conclusion: Key Takeaways   Anthony Church's journey in music production is a testament to the power of passion, persistence, and community. From his humble beginnings in 2016 to a thriving career collaborating with numerous artists, he continues to evolve and inspire. His story serves as a reminder that every artist has a unique path, and through collaboration and dedication, they can contribute to a rich tapestry of sound. As Ohio's music scene continues to grow, Anthony's vision for an album featuring local talent could pave the way for new opportunities and recognition. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/deeper-than-music-with-markivus--2705530/support.

In the latest episode of Deeper Than Music Radio, host Markivus Nious engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Wade Simmons, a multifaceted individual who seamlessly blends the worlds of filmmaking, funeral services, and wrestling. Their dialogue uncovers the intricate balance between passion and profession, while exploring the powerful stories behind both the living and the departed. Section 1: Meet Wade Simmons   Wade Simmons, a Chicago native, is an accomplished filmmaker with over 40 short films to his credit. Beyond the lens, he works in the funeral industry, helping families navigate their most challenging moments. As the conversation unfolds, Wade shares his journey from childhood aspirations to becoming a funeral director and filmmaker. His passion for storytelling was evident from an early age, inspired by figures like Spike Lee and Walt Disney.   Wade reminisces about writing wrestling stories as a child, illustrating how his creativity has always been part of his identity. This blend of interests showcases how diverse experiences can shape a person's path. Section 2: The Balancing Act   One of the key themes of the podcast is Wade's approach to managing multiple careers. He candidly discusses how he had to take a step back from full-time funeral work due to health issues, which led him to find a balance that allows him to pursue filmmaking and wrestling alongside his funeral services work. Wade emphasizes the importance of prioritizing mental and physical well-being while chasing dreams. He notes, "Sometimes we have to understand a bigger vision, right?" This perspective is crucial for anyone juggling multiple passions. Section 3: The Emotional Weight of the Funeral Business   Working in the funeral industry requires a unique blend of empathy and resilience. Wade reflects on the emotional toll of dealing with death and how it shapes his view of life. He expresses his honor in being part of such a significant service, stating, "In that business, you do a lot of times, you know, give a little more than you take." This understanding of life’s fragility not only informs his work but also adds depth to his filmmaking endeavors, where he seeks to tell authentic stories that resonate with viewers. Section 4: Time Management and Life Lessons   Wade's experiences have given him a profound understanding of time as a precious commodity. He shares a poignant reminder: "Tomorrow is not promised to any of us under the sun." This awareness drives him to make the most of each day, embracing opportunities and relationships. His approach to life emphasizes the importance of not waiting for the new year to set resolutions, but rather making changes as soon as one feels ready. This philosophy encourages listeners to act on their aspirations without delay. Conclusion: Key Takeaways   The conversation with Wade Simmons is a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of our passions and the importance of balancing them. His journey showcases that pursuing multiple interests can lead to a richer, more fulfilling life. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own lives and consider how they can integrate their passions while maintaining their well-being. Wade’s story teaches us to appreciate every moment, reminding us that time is a gift not to be taken for granted. Tags: Wade Simmons, filmmaking, funeral services, time management, life lessons, Deeper Than Music Radio, storytelling, passion, balancing careers, inspiration Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/deeper-than-music-with-markivus--2705530/support.

Title: Unveiling the Journey of Ashley Hargrove: From Navy Brat to Acclaimed Voiceover Actress and Filmmaker      Introduction:   In the latest episode of Deep in the Music Radio, host Markivus Nious sits down with Ashley Hargrove, a multifaceted talent whose journey from a shy child in Norfolk, Virginia, to a successful voiceover actress and filmmaker is nothing short of inspiring. With her unique blend of creativity and technical expertise, Ashley shares her story, offering valuable insights into the entertainment industry, the importance of balancing multiple roles, and the intricacies of filmmaking.      Main Content:   1. **Early Beginnings in Entertainment**   Ashley Hargrove’s passion for performance ignited at a young age. At just six years old, she developed a fascination with movies and began participating in talent shows, despite being shy. Her early theater experience includes a unique play titled "Don't Smoke Pinocchio," where she conveyed important life lessons to her peers through the character of Pinocchio. This early involvement laid the groundwork for her future in the entertainment industry.      2. **Navigating Multiple Careers**   Balancing a full-time job in cybersecurity with her artistic pursuits was no easy feat for Ashley. She emphasized the importance of keeping detailed schedules and being organized, even carrying around physical planners to stay on top of her commitments. By prioritizing her tasks and seeking help from her husband and PR manager, Ashley managed to juggle her responsibilities effectively.      3. **The Transition Back to Filmmaking**   After a brief hiatus from acting due to health issues, Ashley returned to the film world, fueled by her passion for storytelling. With the help of her agent and a newfound determination, she left her cybersecurity career to dive back into the entertainment industry. Ashley’s commitment to her craft is evident as she discusses her recent projects, including the film "Carolina Mine," which she wrote, produced, and starred in.      4. **The Filmmaking Process**   Ashley shared insights into her filmmaking journey, including the challenges of scriptwriting and project management. She highlighted the importance of mentorship and networking, attending conventions to learn from industry veterans. Her experience with volunteer projects provided her with a solid foundation in filmmaking, ultimately leading to her current projects being greenlit for sequels.      5. **Understanding the Business of Film**   A crucial part of Ashley’s success lies in her understanding of the business side of filmmaking. She explained the significance of researching potential distribution deals and the importance of maintaining control over her work. By asking the right questions and ensuring her projects are protected legally, she navigates the complex world of film distribution with confidence.      Conclusion:   Ashley Hargrove’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and continuous learning. From her humble beginnings to becoming a skilled voiceover actress and filmmaker, she exemplifies the spirit of creativity and determination. Key takeaways from her story include the importance of balancing multiple careers, seeking mentorship, and understanding the business aspects of filmmaking. For aspiring artists, Ashley's insights serve as a valuable guide to navigating the entertainment industry successfully.      Tags: filmmaking, voiceover, entertainment industry, cybersecurity, career transition, scriptwriting, production, women in film, podcast interview, Ashley Hargrove Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/deeper-than-music-with-markivus--2705530/support.

In the latest episode of Deeper Than Music Radio, host Markivus Nious sits down with the multi-talented Nate Hicks, an artist who not only sings and raps but also serves as an EMT firefighter. Nate’s journey from a humble background to pursuing his passion for music is both inspiring and relatable, making this episode a must-listen for anyone chasing their dreams. Section 1: Discovering a Passion for Music Nate Hicks shares that his love for music wasn’t apparent until his teenage years. Growing up in a family with musical influences, including a father who sings and a sister who appeared on The Voice, Nate found himself exploring various genres. It wasn’t until he moved to Toledo, Ohio, that he discovered his singing talent while joining a youth choir with friends. This pivotal moment ignited a passion that would shape his future. Section 2: Musical Influences and Inspirations When asked about his musical influences, Nate mentions artists like John Legend and Molly Music, who have significantly impacted his sound. He admires the authenticity in their music, which resonates with his own journey. Nate also reflects on being compared to vocal greats like Kim and Joe, which motivated him to explore their music and integrate elements of their styles into his own. Section 3: The Duality of Music and Service Nate’s artistic journey does not exist in isolation; it is intertwined with his role as an EMT firefighter. He explains how his upbringing in a family that experienced homelessness instilled in him a deep desire to serve others. This desire to help people is reflected in his music, which often touches on themes of spirituality, love, and personal growth. Nate emphasizes that his acts of service are a crucial part of his identity and creative expression. Section 4: The Creative Process Nate's creative process has evolved over the years. Initially, he would find beats online and derive inspiration from them, but now he incorporates his instrumental skills with the piano and guitar. He describes his songwriting journey as one of self-discovery, where he often journals his thoughts and later transforms them into songs. This multifaceted approach allows him to create music that is both personal and relatable. Section 5: Balancing Spirituality and Music Addressing the challenges of balancing his R&B music with his spiritual beliefs, Nate shares how his current pastors support his artistic endeavors. He believes that as long as he remains true to himself and his values, he will continue to create music that resonates with his audience. Nate's journey reflects the importance of authenticity in artistry, especially when navigating the complexities of personal beliefs and public perception. Conclusion: Key Takeaways Nate Hicks' journey is a testament to the power of resilience and passion. From discovering his musical talent in a youth choir to navigating the challenges of the music industry while serving as an EMT firefighter, Nate exemplifies the idea that it’s possible to pursue multiple passions. His story encourages aspiring artists to stay true to themselves and their roots while embracing the journey of self-discovery. Tags: Nate Hicks, Deeper Than Music, podcast, music journey, R&B artist, EMT firefighter, creative process, musical influences, spirituality in music, authenticity in artistry. Be sure to like, subscribe, following and leave a comment about this great episode. Check out our Nious Media Merch store:  https://nious-media.printful.me/ Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/deeper-than-music-with-markivus--2705530/support.