Discover the soulful sound, heartfelt storytelling, and undeniable talent behind one of the South’s emerging voices in Southern Soul.
Q. Hey everyone it’s ya boy Darren Southern Plug Brown, here with a mega Southern Plug Exclusive. Introducing to some, Tia Catillia. So, tell our readers that may not be familiar with you or your work just what it is that you do exactly.
A. Hi everyone my name is Tia Cheek, I go by the name Tia Catillia. I'm from Henderson, NC and I've been singing for many years. I love all genres of music. I currently write Southern Soul, R&B, and some gospel. I'm 46 years young & I enjoy singing.
Q. So, what inspired you to start your journey as a singer?
A. Well, I've known since I was a young girl that singing is my therapy. I don't have a specific artist that inspired me but I grew up listening to Betty Wright, Marvin Gay, Luther Vandross and many other greats.
Q. How and when did you coin your stage name and how do you feel that title fits you?
A. Tia is my nickname and Catillia is my middle government name. So I just put both together Tia (Ca-Til-yah).
Q. Do you have any upcoming projects or announcements to make?
A. I will be performing at the Veterans Day event in South Carolina May 24, 2026. I don't have any out of state performances, only locally at this moment.
Q. What would you say is the secret recipe for your
success?
A. Stay focused, ignore the noise, and keep God
in the center of it all!
Q. What was your favorite part about what you do?
A. I get to write my own thoughts and sing it!!!
Q. Name a time where you've faced adversity in your career? And, what impact did it have
on you or your career?
A. When I first started with Southern Soul, I encountered my music going out midway my performance, happened 4 times, with the same DJ. It rubbed me wrong and I just stopped dealing with that particular DJ.
Q. Is there something specific that you want people to know about you or your music?
A. I would like everyone to know, I write relatable music, some fit my life and some of my music fits someone else's life.
Q. Okay, so it's no secret you are a very attractive person. Our men readers would like to know, are you boo'd up or what? If so, split the tea. Who's the lucky guy?
A. Lol, I'm married. So won’t be no new love interests here!
Q. How do you juggle your personal life and professional life?
A. I try my best to keep them separate, it's challenging because I'm doing everything myself,
so it can be a bit frustrating.
Q. What advice would you give those wanting to start their journey in your field?
A. Do it because you love it not to make money!!! If you do what you love, the money will come but don't let money be your main focus because if that's your reason, you'll be "snaking" whoever is willing to be snaked just to make money and that'll bring a lot of unnecessary problems!!! So stay true to yourself and move like you want others to move
with you!!!
Q. Who would you say is your biggest inspiration and why?
A. Believe it or not, I love Adele! I love Mary J, Jasmine Sullivan, Lauren Hill, Jill Scott, Whitney Houston...there's so many greats to name. I'm a sponge, and taking notes from other Southern Soul artists.
Q. Ok we do this every interview! What creatives would you absolutely die to work with?
A. West Love, Nellie Travis, LaCee, Young Guy, FPJ, King George. Just to name a few!
Q. Tell our readers how they can book you and connect with you on the world wide web and on the socials.
A. You can connect with me on Facebook, Instagram & TikTok by searching Tia Catillia. Also my email address is Tiacmusic79@gmail.com
From the streets to the sound booth, Quanfr turns real-life experiences into raw, unapologetic music that gives a voice to the stories often left unheard
South Carolina’s independent music scene has always thrived off authenticity, pain, storytelling, and hometown pride. Out of Lake City, South
Carolina, one artist steadily building his name through consistency, emotion, and real-life experiences is rising rapper QuanFr. Known for emotionally driven records, street-rooted
lyricism, and a hunger to represent the Carolinas on a larger stage, QuanFr is quickly becoming one of the names gaining momentum throughout the South Carolina underground rap movement.With a style that blends Southern pain music, motivational street rap, melodic storytelling, and reflective lyricism, QuanFr’s music connects with listeners who appreciate honesty over gimmicks. Whether discussing heartbreak, depression, growth, betrayal, ambition, or survival, his records often feel personal and relatable rather than manufactured for trends.Born and raised in Lake City, South Carolina, QuanFrrepresents a part of the state often overlooked in mainstream
hip-hop conversations. Instead of waiting for a co-sign from major labels or industry gatekeepers, he has continued building his reputation independently through music releases, interviews,
performances, and consistent community visibility.Over the last several years, QuanFr has steadily expanded his reach throughout
South Carolina’s growing independent music circuit. His name has appeared alongside other rising Carolina artists in media
promotions, independent showcases, podcasts, and
regional entertainment campaigns. His growing visibility has helped position him among the new generation of artists pushing South Carolina culture forward.One of the moments that helped introduce more people to QuanFr’s
personality and story came through his appearance on the popular South Carolina-based “2 Tears In A Bucket Podcast.” During the interview, QuanFr openly discussed heartbreak, depression, finding himself, his upbringing in Lake City, South Carolina, musical inspirations, and even
his perspective on the Kendrick Lamar and Drake rap battle. The interview gave fans a deeper understanding of the artist behind the music and showcased his willingness to speak honestly about real-life struggles and personal growth. QuanFr has also continued gaining attention online through freestyle content and studio performance
clips. Videos such as his “Coffin Freestyle” showcased his hunger, confidence, and ability to deliver emotionally charged bars over dark production. His delivery often
carries a mix of pain and determination that resonates strongly with listeners from small towns and overlooked communities. QuanFr’s musical style blends Southern street rap, emotional pain music, melodic flows, and motivational storytelling into a sound that feels both personal and relatable. Rather than relying strictly on aggressive rap records, his music often balances raw street energy with emotionally vulnerable moments that allow listeners to connect with his experiences on a
deeper level. His delivery carries a mixture of pain, ambition, confidence, and reflection that has become increasingly recognizable throughout South Carolina’s independent music scene. Many of QuanFr’s records focus on real-life situations including heartbreak, depression, betrayal, loyalty, hustling, personal growth, and the pressures of surviving in overlooked communities. His lyrics frequently reflect the mindset of young artists and entrepreneurs trying to elevate themselves while navigating emotional struggles and
street realities at the same time. This combination of honesty and hunger is part of
what continues helping him connect with supporters throughout the Carolinas.
Influenced by Southern rap culture, modern melodic street music, and emotionally
driven storytelling, QuanFr’s sound reflects both traditional Southern authenticity and
newer-generation rap influences. His ability to move between motivational records,
pain music, freestyle performances, and reflective tracks gives his catalog versatility
while still maintaining a consistent identity. More importantly, his music continues
representing the voice of smaller South Carolina communities that often feel
overlooked within mainstream hip-hop conversations. His latest buzzworthy single,
“Binoculars,” has continued helping elevate his profile throughout the South and online
independent music circles. The record’s hard-hitting production, sharp delivery, and
focused energy have made it one of the standout releases currently helping push
QuanFr into a larger spotlight. As his fanbase continues growing, QuanFr has also
become increasingly associated with regional entertainment platforms, live events, and
independent promotional campaigns throughout the Carolinas. Promotional material
connected to PENK Entertainment and Southern independent showcases has featured
QuanFr as one of the artists helping represent the next wave of South Carolina
talent.Industry observers within the independent Southern scene have noted QuanFr’s
consistency and grassroots momentum. While many artists struggle to maintain
visibility, QuanFr has continued building his brand through interviews, local support,
social media engagement, and independent releases.His growing momentum has also
earned him recognition on the award circuit this year, including a nomination for New
Artist of the Year at the Southern Plug Music Awards — a major acknowledgment of his
impact and rising visibility throughout the Carolina music scene.Although still
developing his catalog and career, QuanFr represents a larger movement happening
throughout South Carolina music culture — artists from smaller cities creating their own
opportunities without waiting for mainstream validation. The rise of independent media
outlets, podcasts, showcases, and regional award platforms has allowed artists like
QuanFr to build real audiences while staying connected to their hometown
roots.QuanFr’s growing reputation has also led to increased visibility within regional
event promotions and South Carolina music discussions online. His name has appeared
in promotional campaigns featuring emerging Carolina talent, helping further establish
him as part of the state’s next generation of rap artists.For fans of authentic Southern
storytelling, emotionally honest records, and independent hustle, QuanFr continues to
be an artist worth watching. His journey reflects the reality of many young artists from
small towns — turning pain, ambition, setbacks, and life experiences into motivation.As
South Carolina’s rap scene continues evolving and gaining national attention, QuanFr is
positioning himself as one of the artists determined to make sure Lake City and the
surrounding Carolina communities have a voice in the conversation
Q. Hey everyone it’s ya boy Darren Southern Plug Brown, here with a mega Southern Plug Exclusive. Introducing to some, Mcbeth864. So, tell our readers that may not be familiar with you or your work just who you are and what it is that you do exactly.
A. My name is McBeth. I'm an entertainment creative from rural South Carolina by way of Greenville,SC. I specialize in full artist development, which some would say is a lost artform. I currently work with all budgets. So, never let my client list scare you away. I enjoy working with independent artists.
Q. So, what inspired you to start your journey in artist development?
A. Very early in life my dream was to be the guy who signed the next star’s check or at least get them one. Lol!
Q. Do you have any upcoming projects or announcements to make?
A. Yes. I have the first season of the “UNK n NEP” show, I also have a book coming out called "Da Pak In" late summer, early fall.
Q. What would you say is the quote-on-quote secret recipe for your success?
A. Salat, doing good business, remaining fair even when you have the upper hand.
Q. What was your favorite part about what you do?
A. The moment an artist trusts your vision and the ball starts rolling.
Q. Name a time where you've faced adversity in your career? And, what impact did it have on you or your career?
A. Every day lol.. It comes with the territory.
Q. Is there something in specific that you want people to know about you or your art?
A. I am more than a manager or promoter. I style, write music, author etc. I’m basically a well rounded creative.
Q. How do you juggle your personal life and professional life?
A. Staying organized and Google calendar for sure, lol.
Q. What advice would you give those wanting to start their journey in artist development and management?
A. Go into industry service like stage building, electrical, engineering or production. Easiest way to get in the door as an executive or artist.
Q. Who would you say is your biggest inspiration and why?
A. Toya McBeth, my mother. She's the OG, definitely. She’s most definitely one of them one's.
Q. Ok we do this every interview! What creatives would you absolutely die to work with?
A. Bryan Williams
Q. Tell our readers how they can book you and connect with you on the world wide web and on the socials.
A. @Mcbeth864 on all socials
Check Out Videos that Mcbeth directed and from artists that he manage
With a soulful sound, authentic storytelling, and a style all his own, Southern Soul Skii is making his mark as one of PENK Entertainment’s exciting voices in Southern Soul.
Southern Soul Ski is a powerhouse in the music industry with over 20 years of experience spanning multiple genres. Rooted in passion and driven by authenticity, he has dedicated his career to creating music that speaks to the heart and soul. From Southern Soul to other dynamic styles, Ski’s versatility and longevity reflect both his talent and his deep understanding of the craft.
Q. Hey everyone it’s ya boy Darren Southern
Plug Brown, here with a mega Southern Plug
Exclusive. Introducing to some Southern Soul Ski. So, tell our readers that may not be familiar with you or your work just who you are and what it is that you do exactly.
A. J I’Sham aka Southern Soul Ski
Q. So, what inspired you to start your journey as
a southern soul artist?
A. I wrote & recorded my Single “ Cushion”, my
team encouraged me to pursue the southern
soul genre. Extremely happy I listened.
Q. How and when did you coin the name
Southern Soul Ski, and how do you feel that title
fits you?
A. Being a hip artist first , My name is Jski. When
I came out with my first southern soul song my
nephew was feeling the song so much . He
encouraged me to go into southern soul , So he
coined me Southern Soul Ski.. Kinda a play off
my Emcee name.
Check out this music video featuring Southern Soul Ski back when he was rapper. Before he took the Southern Soul world by storm.
Q. Do you have any upcoming projects or
announcements to make?
A. I’m currently working on my debut Southern
Soul LP. Hopefully dropping this year. But we are
still finalizing which songs are going on the LP..
Just signed with Penk Entertainment . Very
excited about that and what the future has in
store for both me & them.
Q. What would you say is the quote on quote
secret recipe for your success?
A. Hard work , dedication to the craft of making
good music.
Q. What was your favorite part about making
music?
A. Seeing a song idea come to life from , The
idea of the concept , to writing the actual song ,
arranging the song , and pretty much watching it
come to life to what you hear coming out of your
speaker.
Q. Name a time where you've faced adversity in your career? And, what impact did it have on you or your career?
A. Being signed to a Record label when I first started to be serious about asking music. And the situation not working out.. Made me become way more self sufficient.
Q. Is there something in specific that you want people to know about you or your art?
A. I’m sensitive about my shit… Also passionate about my music . Music that’s genuine, original, and from the heart.
Q. Okay, so it's no secret you are a very cool person. Our lady readers would like to know, are you boo'd up or what? If so, spill the tea. Who's the lucky girl?
A. Let’s just say I’m happily not available for none of that… Just about the music bro.
Q. How do you juggle your personal life and professional life?
A. God and my support team…
Q. What advice would you give those wanting to start their journey in music?
A. Be hungry. Stay strong through the fog of what people say or think about you. Believe in you.
Q. Who would you say is your biggest inspiration and why?
A. Musically. Tupac because of his work ethic when it came to making music. You really don’t have time to waste.
Q. Ok we do this every interview! What creatives would you absolutely die to work with?
A. Jill Scott, Erica Badu, Redman & Method man
Q. Tell our readers how they can book you and connect with you on the world wide web and on the socials.
A. Check our website tritowerinc.com , IG @southernsoulski, FB JimmyWilliamson
How PENK Entertainment’s Director of Events and Marketing is helping shape the brand, elevate experiences, and drive the company forward.
In the world of event production and brand marketing, few rising professionals are making an impact quite like Deb Lucas. Known to her PENK Entertainment family as the powerhouse behind unforgettable experiences, Shayla Davis has carved out a reputation as a visionary event coordinator, marketer, and culture curator whose presence commands attention the moment she enters a room. Serving as PENK Entertainment’s Director of Events and Marketing, Davis has built her career on transforming energy into experiences, creating events that leave lasting impressions long after the music stops. Inspired by influential figures such as Deb Antney and Frankie Lucas, she adopted the name “Deb Lucas” as a symbol of authority, respect, and leadership in an industry where she often found herself as the only woman in the room. Beyond her work with PENK, Davis wears many hats, including artist development specialist, Certified Life Coach, entrepreneur, and business owner, all while remaining committed to pushing creative boundaries and elevating the culture. Her philosophy is simple yet powerful: never wait to be chosen—choose yourself. Through consistency, confidence, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Deb Lucas continues to set the tone, proving that true influence isn’t just about being seen—it’s about creating moments that people never forget.
Q. Hey everyone it’s ya boy Darren Southern Plug Brown, here with a mega Southern Plug Exclusive. Introducing to some, Deb Lucas. So, tell our readers that may not be familiar with you or your work just who you are and what it is that you do exactly.
A. My name is Shayla Davis, but my PENK Entertainment family knows me as “Deb Lucas.” I serve as the Director of Events and Marketing, where I specialize in creating memorable experiences, building strong brand presence, and connecting audiences to the culture through strategic promotion and high-impact events.
Q. So, what inspired you to start your journey as an event coordinator?
A. Honestly, it started with my obsession with a good vibe. I’ve always loved being where the energy is…music playing, people connecting, moments you don’t want to end. I’m not stuck on one sound either; I love all genres, because each one brings a different mood and story. At some point, I realized I didn’t just want to be in those moments..I wanted to create them. I wanted to be the one behind the scenes making sure people walk in one way and leave feeling something completely different. That’s what pushed me into this field; turning energy h byinto an experience people won’t forget.
Q. What was your favorite part about what you do for Penk Ent.?
A. Watching people walk into something I created and be like “okayyyy wait…” That reaction right there? Yeah, that’s my favorite part. Turning ideas into whole experiences is a different kind of power.
Q. How and when did you coin your stage name and how do you feel that title fits you?
A. I didn’t sit down and “create” a stage name—it really came from the energy I had to step into early on. In the first few months of PENK, we were throwing events and I was the only female in the room. The question was always, “Who is she?”—and I took that personally. Being surrounded by men, I knew I couldn’t just show up—I had to stand out. I had to carry the same authority, the same presence, the same respect. I’ve been told when I walk into a room, it shifts… like people straighten up without even realizing it. That stuck with me. So when it came time to name that energy, I thought about Deb Antney—the way she moves, her influence, her power behind the scenes—and then Frankie Lucas, someone known for respect and presence. I combined the two, and “Deb Lucas” was born. It fits me because it’s not just a name—it’s a standard. It represents authority, respect, and a presence you don’t question when I step in the room.
Q. Do you have any upcoming projects or announcements to make?
A. Oh absolutely I have my hands in a little bit of everything including artist management and development, I’m a Certified Life Coach, a baker and I own an adult toy and novelty business. PENK is stepping into rooms I’m sure people aren’t expecting to see us in. Bigger vibes, better production, and events that people are gonna be mad they missed. I’m outside… strategically!
Q. What would you say is the quote-on-quote secret recipe for your success?
A. I don’t wait to be chosen—I choose myself. Every time. Add consistency, a little pressure, and a whole lot of “I said what I said”… that’s the recipe. Oh—and I don’t play about my work.
Q. Name a time where you've faced adversity in your career? And what impact did it have on you or your career?
A. Being the only woman in certain rooms, people will try you just to see if they can. I let them. And then I show them why they shouldn’t have. It taught me how to stand ten toes down without raising my voice—my work speaks fluent “don’t play with her.”
Q. Is there something in particular that you want people to know about you or your art?
A. I make it look easy on purpose. But nothing I do is random. Every detail, every vibe, every move—it’s calculated. I don’t just create… I set the tone.
Q. Okay, so it's no secert you are a very attractive person. Our men readers would like to know, are you boo'd up or what? If so, spilt the tea. Who's the lucky guy?
A. Lol, See… I knew this was coming. I’m currently in a very committed relationship—with my goals, my peace, and my standards. If somebody step in, they gotta not only bring balance but support to my life and all that I have going on. Good luck to him!
Q. How do you juggle your personal life and professional life?
A. Boundaries. Real ones. Everybody can’t call me, everybody can’t reach me, and everybody definitely can’t have me. When it’s work time, I’m locked in. When it’s me time, don’t disturb—respectfully.
Q. What advice would you give those wanting to start their journey in your field?
A. Stop waiting for it to be perfect—it’s not. Start messy, learn fast, and stay consistent. And please… stop being scared to be seen. Closed mouths, quiet brands, and scared creatives don’t get fed or booked.
Q. Who would you say is your biggest inspiration and why?
A. People who walk in a room and shift energy without trying. That confidence? That presence? Yeah… that’s power. And I’m very much into power.
Q. Ok we do this every interview! What creatives would you absolutely die to work with?
A. I want to work with people who have a vision and a little attitude. Creatives who aren’t afraid to push limits and make people uncomfortable in a good way. Safe is cute… but it’s not memorable.
Q. Tell our readers how they can book you and connect with you on the world wide web and on the socials.
A. If you’re trying to work with me, you can find me on FB: Kijafa Davis, IG: Shay_Shay_thaboss—tap in, DM, or send an email at ShaylaDavis0202@gmail.com for serious inquiries only. If it makes sense, I’m with it. If it don’t… I’m still booked and busy!
Inside the vision, talent development, and industry expertise of PENK Entertainment’s Director of A&R.
As Head of A&R for PENK Entertainment, Cory “Barkley” Blaine serves as one of the driving forces behind the label’s artist development and talent acquisition efforts. Known for his keen ear for emerging talent and his ability to identify artists with long-term potential, Barkley plays a critical role in shaping the sound and
direction of the growing independent powerhouse. Working closely with PENK Entertainment founder Elliss Peterson and the label’s roster, he helps guide artists through every stage of their development, from song selection and branding to career strategy and market positioning. His passion for music, artist growth, and authentic storytelling has made him a respected voice within the organization and a trusted resource for developing talent. As PENK Entertainment continues to expand its footprint throughout the Carolinas and beyond, Barkley remains committed to discovering the next generation of stars and helping transform raw talent into lasting success.
Q. Hey everyone it’s ya boy Darren Southern Plug Brown, here with a
mega Southern Plug Exclusive. Introducing to some, Reggie King Sears.
So, tell our readers that may not be familiar with you or your work just
who you are and what it is that you do exactly.
A. I’m Reggie King Sears, recording artist, singer, songwriter, producer, multi-instrumentalist, engineer, and studio owner out of the Tatertown
neighborhood, better known as Boulevard Gardens, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. I call my sound Ghetto Soul — Southern Soul and Contemporary
R&B mainly, but I also make real Neo-Soul records and records with straight-up Southern Rap energy. Gospel is a big influence too, along with soul-blues and real-life storytelling. I’m mainly a singer, but I have rapped on records before when the song called for it. I’ve been a Southern Soul artist since my first Southern Soul album back in 2006. I was 15 years old when I came into Southern Soul, and at that time there weren’t teenagers in this lane. Southern Soul was grown folks’ music, and I was blessed to be a kid getting love from legends, you feel me? I’m blessed and thankful to still be in the game all these years later.
Q. So, what inspired you to start your journey as in your perspective field?
A. Music was always in me. I was a music fan first, and once I started performing, recording, and seeing how people connected with it, I knew it
was what I was supposed to do. I started performing professionally around 11 or 12, started recording around 14, and by 15 I had my first Southern Soul album out, Southern Soul, Florida Style, in 2006. A big part of what inspired me was being around real artists early. I was blessed to be mentored and encouraged by Solomon Burke and Marvin Sease. Solomon took me in like family, called me his godson, gave me the name “King,” and poured into me as a young artist. Marvin Sease really showed me love coming into Southern Soul, and that meant a lot because Marvin was one of the real architects of the soul-blues and Southern Soul world. I also got love, advice, and encouragement from people like Denise LaSalle, Roy C, Theodis Ealey, The Love Doctor, Lenny Williams, Sir Charles Jones, Omar Cunningham, LJ Echols, Karen Wolfe, Kenne’ Wayne, Nathaniel Kimble, Fred Bolton, Bobby Stringer, David Hudson, Betty Padgett, Moody Scott, Andre’ Lee, Ghetto Cowboy, and many others from the Southern Soul and soul-blues circuit. Being around those people taught me how to tell stories, perform, carry myself, and sing to real people.
Q. How and when did you coin your stage name and how do you feel that title fits you?
A. My real name is Reggie Sears, but Solomon Burke gave me the nickname “King.” I first met and played for him when I was 12 years old, and over time he took me in like family and called me his godson. When I was 17, we were onstage in Vicksburg, Mississippi, and he crowned me “King” in front of the audience. That moment stayed with me. So Reggie King Sears ain’t just something I made up because it sounded cool. It came from a real moment, a real legend, and a real relationship.
Q. Do you have any upcoming projects or announcements to make?
A. Yes. I got a new single called “What He Don’t Know,” and I’m finishing up my new album Crowned & Dangerous. The album is for the grown folks — Southern Soul, Contemporary R&B, Neo-Soul, Southern Rap, love, pain, temptation, betrayal, and real-life storytelling. I’ve got some real people helping bring this project to life. My bro Xose has been my collaborator for nearly 15 years.
He’s a great lyricist, writer, and artist in his own right, and he brings a lot of ideas to the table. Then I got my homie Charles DeBay, a young talented musician, writer, and producer who co-wrote and co-produced some dope songs on this project. I also got Nick “Young Buck” Bencosme, another young talented musician I’ve been working with. Grammy Award-winning producer Patrick “GuitarBoy” Hayes produced a track on the album that’s a duet with me and Christone “Kingfish” Ingram. JT Money is on a track too. I’m also working on one with Mr. David, and there are some more guests on the album that I gotta keep on the low right now.
Q. What would you say is the secret recipe for your success?
A. Let me put it like this — faith in Christ comes first. God has kept me through a lot, and I know I wouldn’t still be here doing this without him. After that, I gotta give credit to my parents, my family, and my people for having my back. My parents sacrificed for me, supported me, believed in me, and kept me grounded. Then it comes down to respecting the craft, staying original, not chasing every trend, and telling the truth through the music. I believe people can feel that.
Q. What was your favorite part about what you do?
A. I’m a music fan first, so just being able to express myself through music is a blessing. Taking a feeling, melody, chord progression, or something I went through and turning it into a full record — that’s one of the best feelings in the world. And performing live, fasho’. There’s nothing like seeing people react right in front of you. When they’re singing along, dancing, laughing, crying, or locked in feeling it, that’s what makes it worth it.
Q. Name a time where you've faced adversity in your career? And, what impact did it have on you or your career?
A. I’ve faced a lot — losing people close to me, industry politics, being misunderstood musically, rebuilding momentum, and people trying to put me in boxes. I started young, so I learned early that this business ain’t always pretty. But it made my music deeper and gave me more to say. It also made me more independent, because I learned I couldn’t sit around waiting on somebody else to open every door for me. It is what it is — I had to figure out how to keep going, and I believe that made me stand stronger on who I am.
Q. Is there something in particular that you want people to know about you or your art?
A. On the real, Ghetto Soul is my life in musical form. I’ve been part of Southern Soul since my first Southern Soul album in 2006. I came into the genre at 15, back when there weren’t teenagers in this lane, and I was blessed to be embraced by artists who were already carrying the scene. My sound comes from Tatertown, the church, the hood, the bedroom, the club, the family, the pain, the love, the mistakes, and real life. That’s my thing. That’s what I do.
Q. How do you juggle your personal life and professional life?
A. Honestly, I’m still learning that balance. When you’re really passionate about something, it can take over your whole life with the quickness. I try to stay grounded through my walk with God, my relationship with God, family, close friends, and remembering why I started. I’ve learned that if your personal life ain’t copacetic, eventually it can bleed into the music too. So I’m trying to keep everything aligned — my relationship with God, my people, my peace, and the music, you feel me?
Q. What advice would you give those wanting to start their journey in music?
A. Keep God first, stay humble, and respect the craft. Grind, always work hard to be better, and don’t just chase attention or try to go viral.
Learn how to sing, write, perform, record, promote yourself, network, and understand the business side too. Study artists who are really working. A good example is J-Wonn. He’s one of my favorite artists out here right now because he has his business locked down, constantly releases dope music, stays on the road, and connects with his fans. That kind of work ethic is what longevity looks like. And respect the ones who helped shape the lane — obvious pillars like Johnnie Taylor, Latimore, Marvin Sease, Mel Waiters, Denise LaSalle, and Sir Charles Jones, but also artists who don’t always get mentioned enough, like Chuck Roberson, Barbara Carr, Karen Wolfe, Sorrento Ussery. This music came from people before us, and none of us got here by ourselves. Most importantly, praise and give thanks to God, and appreciate
the people who support you. Fans, DJs, promoters, writers, family, friends — whoever is really showing love, don’t take that for granted. I’ma be real — without God and without the people, we wouldn’t be shit.
Q. Who would you say is your biggest inspiration and why?
A. In life, my biggest inspiration comes from God. Then my parents, my family, and the people who have stood by me. They keep me grounded and remind me why I do this. Musically, Gerald Levert is hands down my biggest influence. He is my greatest singer, and he was a great writer and producer too. He could do no wrong. I’m also inspired by Marvin Sease, Bobby Womack, K-Ci Hailey, JT Money, Dave Hollister, Johnnie Taylor, Pimp C, Tyrone Davis, L.V. Johnson, Alexander O’Neal, Millie Jackson, J. Blackfoot, Sir Charles Jones, Lenny Williams, Master P, Pressha/Mr. David, David Hudson, Michael Sterling, D’Angelo, Dwele, Eric Roberson, Young Bleed… man, I could go on
and on.
Q. Ok we do this every interview! What creatives would you absolutely die to work with?
A. I’d love to work with artists who understand soul, storytelling, pain, romance, and real-life emotion. On the R&B side: Trey Songz, August
Alsina, Keith Sweat, Johnny Gill, Tank, Dave Hollister, Donell Jones, Keyshia Cole, Syleena Johnson, and Raheem DeVaughn. On the
Southern Soul and soul-blues side: Sir Charles Jones, Tucka, King George, Pokey Bear, Karen Wolfe, Crystal Thomas, Calvin Richardson, West
Love, and Jureesa “The Duchess” McBride. On the Southern Rap side: Silkk the Shocker, Boosie, Trick Daddy, Big Gipp, Slim Guerilla, Kingpin
Skinny Pimp, and Whoppa Wit Da Choppa.
Q. Tell our readers how they can book you and connect with you on the world wide web and on the socials.
A. People can connect with me online at: Website: reggiekingsears.com Instagram: @reggiesears Facebook: @reggiesears YouTube: @reggiesears For booking, features, production, studio work, or interviews, reach out through my website. New music, videos, and updates on Crowned & Dangerous are coming soon.
