The Truth In This Art: Stories That Matter

Welcome to "The Truth In This Art." I'm your host, Rob Lee. In today's episode, we have a captivating conversation with Myles Michelin, a talented young filmmaker hailing from Baltimore, Maryland. Despite the negative perceptions surrounding his city, Myles decided to wield his camera as a tool to shed light on both the positive and negative aspects of Baltimore. Passionate about amplifying others' voices and sharing their stories through film, he embarked on his filmmaking journey during an internship in 11th grade. As the founder of Light Skin Films, Myles uses his YouTube channel to showcase his captivating videos, while his Instagram Live interviews allow him to connect with his audience and further his mission of portraying the beauty and resilience of Baltimore. Join us in this engaging episode as we delve into Myles Michelin's inspiring work as a filmmaker and his dedication to revealing the true essence of his beloved city.Coming up:Tune in as Myles recounts his inspiring journey in filmmaking, starting from an internship in 11th grade and drawing inspiration from his family's photography background.Join the conversation as Myles discusses his belief in highlighting the positive side of Baltimore and challenging the negative stereotypes often associated with the city.Discover Myles' creative process as he delves into various topics, capturing the captivating stories and experiences of the people in Baltimore through his lens.Gain valuable insights from Myles as he emphasizes the importance of professionalism in the filmmaking industry and shares how he handles criticism constructively.Explore the influences behind Myles' captivating content, such as Vice and reggae music, which inspire him to create relatable and engaging films that resonate with his city's audience.Join Myles Michelin in a compelling episode where he shares his filmmaking journey and passion for highlighting the positive aspects of Baltimore. Starting in 11th grade during an internship, Myles was influenced by his family's photography background, shaping his interest in visual storytelling. He emphasizes finding positivity in the city and challenging negative narratives. Discover his creative process, exploring various themes, people, places, and music. Myles addresses challenges, handling criticism professionally, and shares inspirations from Vice and reggae music. He concludes with pride in his work and commitment to connect with his audience through captivating videos.🎧🌟 Don't forget to rate and review this episode to support the best in podcasting! 🌟🎧 The Truth In This Art is supported by William G. Baker, Jr. Memorial Fund, the Maryland State Arts Council's Creativity Grant and Mayor's Individual Artist Award - Creative Baltimore Fund (Baltimore). Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos:Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.Support the podcastThe Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

Welcome to a captivating episode of "The Truth in This Art"! Join host Rob Lee as he engages in a meaningful conversation with Kendal Brown, the owner of 228 Grant Street Candle Co., based in Baltimore, MD, who shares his inspiring journey from minister to candle-maker. Founded in 2016, the black-owned brand offers hand-poured, artisanal-scented soy wax candles with deeply aromatic fragrance combinations for every mood and season. The company's name pays tribute to Kendal's late maternal grandparents' home in Danville, VA, where hospitality and the sharing of handmade items were cherished. Kendal's candles are now carried by nearly 60 retailers nationwide, and the brand has gained recognition on major platforms like The Today Show and ABC World News Tonight, as well as in magazines such as The Strategist, Cosmopolitan, Essence, and Esquire. Tune in to learn about the transformational power of these unique candles and how they can elevate any space's ambiance.Discover the depths of:The fascinating story of how Kendal Brown's journey to candle-making began, sparked by a mysterious voice he heard while holding a candle in a store.Kendal's passion for candles and how they have always played a crucial role in his creative process. Learn about the powerful impact of scent on emotions and moods in this captivating conversation.Tune in to learn how 228 Grant Street Candle Co. thrived during the pandemic, providing people with a comforting ambiance for their homes and becoming a success story during challenging times.Explore the enchanting world of Kendal's candles, renowned for their unique fragrances that can transport people to different places and evoke powerful emotions, making them truly one-of-a-kind.Get to know Kendal Brown, the entrepreneur behind the candles. Discover his love for putzing, exploring markets, and building connections with customers, as well as his appreciation for the freedom and flexibility of entrepreneurship.Engage in a riveting episode as Kendal shares his journey from a desk job to becoming a successful candle maker. He talks about how he discovered his passion for candle making and the inspiration behind his business. Kendal also discusses the impact of the pandemic on his business and the opportunities that arose from it. He emphasizes the importance of scent and how candles can create a comforting and grounding atmosphere in a home. Kendal's love for putzing, browsing markets, and connecting with customers is evident in his work and the joy he finds in his business.🎧🌟 Don't forget to rate and review this episode to support the best in podcasting! 🌟🎧 The Truth In This Art is supported by William G. Baker, Jr. Memorial Fund, the Maryland State Arts Council's Creativity Grant and Mayor's Individual Artist Award - Creative Baltimore Fund (Baltimore). Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos:Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.Support the podcastThe Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the podcast, join host Rob Lee as he engages in a fascinating conversation with Donte Johnson and Jason Bass. Donte, the General Manager of Revival Hotel in Baltimore, who's committed to transforming the hotel into a space that is not only welcoming but also inclusive for all. With a focus on social impact, the hotel launched a plan in collaboration with the Georgetown Beeck Center for Social Impact and Innovation to support minority-owned businesses and foster relationships with local organizations for a positive impact on the community. To further their social impact efforts, the hotel hired Jason as the Director of Culture and Impact, who has spearheaded various initiatives, including educational workshops, diverse conversations, art pop-ups, and more. Beyond on-site programming, Revival Hotel actively supports the Baltimore community through partnerships with local minority businesses, philanthropic efforts, and assistance to those in need. Through vendor partnerships, internships, fundraising, and providing space to Black-owned businesses, Revival Hotel demonstrates a dedication to uplifting the community and fostering opportunities for growth.Tune in to this episode as we:Discover the journey of Revival Hotel as they share their commitment to a sustainable and community-focused business model, revolutionizing the hospitality industry with a positive impact on Baltimore's local communities.Join us for an enlightening discussion with Revival Hotel's leaders as they unveil their mission to foster an inclusive environment, support local businesses, and uplift artists, creating a dynamic space that celebrates the rich cultural tapestry of Baltimore.In this captivating episode, listen to Donte and Jason's heartfelt insights as they stress the significance of authenticity and genuine community engagement, revealing the driving forces behind Revival Hotel's success.Embark on a flavorful adventure through Baltimore's diverse food culture, as we explore a melting pot of cuisines from various ethnic backgrounds, showcasing the vibrant culinary landscape of the city.Join us for an engaging conversation with Donte Johnson and Jason Bass as they discuss their roles at Revival Hotel and the importance of community-focused efforts in Baltimore. They emphasize the need for authenticity and congruency in supporting local businesses and creating spaces for diverse communities to intersect. They also highlight the vibrant food culture in Baltimore and the city's ability to maintain authenticity while offering a wide range of cuisines.🎧🌟 Don't forget to rate and review this episode to support the best in podcasting! 🌟🎧 The Truth In This Art is supported by William G. Baker, Jr. Memorial Fund, the Maryland State Arts Council's Creativity Grant and Mayor's Individual Artist Award - Creative Baltimore Fund (Baltimore). Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos:Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.Support the podcastThe Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

Welcome to "The Truth In This Art." I'm your host, Rob Lee. In today's episode, we have a captivating conversation with Outcalls, the vocal pop duo, redefining the music scene in Baltimore as the "electronic opera queens." Comprising Britt Olsen-Ecker and Melissa Wimbish, both classically-trained musicians, Outcalls produces genre-defying pop music that challenges conventional narratives found in mainstream songs. Their live performances captivate audiences with surprising melodic and harmonic elements, ranging from gentle melodies to powerful crescendos. The latest EP, "No King," boasts cinematic and art pop songs with unconventional band arrangements that fuse acoustic and electronic elements. Their single "Keep Falling Over" earned the title of #1 Song of 2018 by Baltimore's 89.7 WTMD radio listeners. Beyond music, the duo actively advocates for women in the music industry and explores new creative horizons as engineers and sound designers in the recording studio. With a glittering image, engaging social media presence, and ambitious attitude, Britt Olsen-Ecker and Melissa Wimbish have carved a unique path in the local arts scene, offering refreshing perspectives with their feminist-driven music.In this episode:Explore the dynamic world of Outcalls, a vocal pop duo celebrated for their mesmerizing vocals and distinct musical style, as they share their journey and unique sound.Delve into the creative minds of Outcalls as they reveal the diverse sources of inspiration behind their genre-defying music, from music videos to personal experiences.Get an exclusive sneak peek into Outcalls' highly anticipated album, "Greatest Hits Volume One," and witness the evolution of their sound and artistic expression.Join Outcalls in a heartfelt discussion about the joy and passion they derive from the creative process, whether it's composing, recording, or delivering awe-inspiring performances.Gain insights into Outcalls' advocacy for the arts in Baltimore as they shed light on the crucial importance of funding and support for artists in the city's vibrant and thriving music scene.Join us for an engaging conversation with Britt and Melissa as they discuss their journey as musicians and their unique sound. They talk about their background in classical music and how they have transitioned into writing and performing their own music. They also discuss their upcoming album, "Greatest Hits Volume One," and the joy they find in the creative process. They touch on the challenges faced by artists in Baltimore and the importance of funding and support for the arts. Overall, they emphasize the power of collaboration and the satisfaction they find in creating and performing music.Listen to their new single "Mother" here. Photo:  Kaitlin Newman🎧🌟 Don't forget to rate and review this episode to support the best in podcasting! 🌟🎧 The Truth In This Art is supported by William G. Baker, Jr. Memorial Fund, the Maryland State Arts Council's Creativity Grant and Mayor's Individual Artist Award - Creative Baltimore Fund (Baltimore). Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos:Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.Support the podcastThe Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

Welcome to the Truth in This Art. I'm your host, Rob Lee, and I’m thrilled to be in conversation with my next guest: Jessica Henkin. She's a dedicated professional working in Baltimore City Public School's Office of Early Learning Program. Alongside her commitment to education and special needs, Jessica is deeply passionate about her family, Baltimore City, and fostering connections through storytelling. With a background in improv comedy spanning over two decades in New York City and Baltimore, Jessica co-founded the widely acclaimed Stoop Storytelling, a live show, and podcast featuring ordinary individuals sharing extraordinary true stories about their lives. Her enthusiasm for the power of personal narratives to bring communities together shines through her ongoing involvement in this inspiring project since its inception in 2006.Today's episode uncovers:How true personal stories have the ability to forge deep connections between people and create a sense of community on a profound level.Delve into the ethos of Stoop Storytelling, where authenticity and scrappiness are celebrated, giving storytellers the freedom to share their genuine experiences and emotions.Discover the significance of diversity in storytelling and the importance of approaching it with respect and sensitivity, ensuring that every voice is heard without exploitation.Explore the true essence of Baltimore, a city with a rich and authentic culture that defies negative stereotypes, and celebrate its diverse and vibrant community.Delve into Jessica Henkin's creative passions, from early childhood to theater, comedy, and scrappiness, as she shares her admiration for Jim Henson and her dream of working with this legendary creative mind.Tune in as Jessica Henkin joins Rob Lee on the podcast to discuss the power of true personal stories and the importance of authenticity and diversity in storytelling. They explore the mission of Stoop Storytelling and how it has evolved over the years. Jessica shares memorable responses from the audience and reflects on the impact of rejection on the creative pursuit. They also discuss Jessica's other creative interests, including comedy and improv, and her love for Baltimore as an underdog city.🎧🌟 Don't forget to rate and review this episode to support the best in podcasting! 🌟🎧 The Truth In This Art is supported by William G. Baker, Jr. Memorial Fund, the Maryland State Arts Council's Creativity Grant and Mayor's Individual Artist Award - Creative Baltimore Fund (Baltimore). Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos:Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.Support the podcastThe Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

Chef John Creger, an executive chef and owner of Fuisine in Baltimore, Maryland, has a rich culinary background shaped by his upbringing in the restaurant industry and extensive experience working with renowned chefs in New York City. Inspired by his parents' culinary talents, John pursued a career in the food industry, eventually becoming the head chef at a seafood restaurant at a remarkably young age. His journey led him to work alongside acclaimed chefs, earning accolades and recognition for his exceptional culinary skills. Now back in his hometown, John delights diners with his creative and delicious dishes at Fuisine, while also actively supporting the local community. From winning prestigious competitions to hosting events at the James Beard Foundation, Chef John Creger continues to impress and inspire with his passion for food.In this episode, we explore:John Creger's earliest culinary memories and how his mother's yonke-making and the tantalizing aroma of tomato sauce ignited his passion for cooking.The evolution of Chef John's cooking style, where he shares the importance of respect and care for the ingredients he uses, creating dishes that reflect his culinary growth.The dynamic transformation of Baltimore's food scene as John discusses the increased creativity and variety now available in the city's culinary landscape.Delight in Chef John's love for crafting exquisite squidding pasta, a dish that has evolved with time, incorporating fresh and seasonal ingredients to create a culinary masterpiece.Join an emotional journey as John shares his dream of cooking a heartwarming meal for his late mother, a touching display of his culinary skills and love for food.Get inspired by John's admiration for Triple H, the legendary professional wrestler, and learn how his perseverance and success inspire Chef John in his culinary endeavors.Join us in this episode as Rob Lee interviews John Creger. He shares his background in the restaurant industry, including his experience working in New York and his decision to return to Baltimore. He discusses his cooking style and approach to food, emphasizing the importance of respect and care in the kitchen. John also reflects on the evolving food scene in Baltimore and the unique dishes he creates at Fuisine. The conversation touches on John's experience on the show Chopped and his love for wrestling, cartoons, and rap music.🎧🌟 Don't forget to rate and review this episode to support the best in podcasting! 🌟🎧 The Truth In This Art is supported by William G. Baker, Jr. Memorial Fund, the Maryland State Arts Council's Creativity Grant and Mayor's Individual Artist Award - Creative Baltimore Fund (Baltimore). Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos:Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.Support the podcastThe Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

DDM, also known as Dapper Dan Midas, is a rising star in the Baltimore hip-hop scene, known for his abrasive yet welcoming style. He has made a name for himself as a premier live act and songwriter, sharing the stage with acclaimed artists like Dan Deacon, Future Islands, Beach House, and Big Freedia. In addition to his music, DDM runs a popular YouTube channel called "Secretary of Shade," where he delves into politics and pop culture, amassing over 21,000 subscribers. He has also been featured as a guest on 'The Hill,' showcasing his skills in political commentary. With a passion for performance and a unique voice in hip-hop, DDM continues to make waves in the music industry.In our talk, DDM shares:His deep appreciation for performance as he discusses how he connects with the audience during his electrifying shows, creating unforgettable experiences.The importance of authenticity and staying grounded in one's roots while navigating the journey towards a global career in the music industry, offering valuable insights for aspiring artists.DDM's creative process as he reveals how he follows his emotions and instincts rather than rigid planning, emphasizing the significance of quality over quantity in his music and artistic endeavors.The fascinating world of DDM's fashion choices and performances, where he draws inspiration from diverse historical periods and cultural influences, resulting in captivating and boundary-pushing artistry.Discover DDM's personal definition of success in this episode, as he candidly shares his aspirations of reaching the highest echelons in the music industry, attaining recognition through awards, and achieving global acclaim for his extraordinary talent.Join us for an engaging episode as DDM discusses his journey in the music industry and his passion for performance. He talks about his YouTube show, "Secretary of Shade," and how it started as an accident but has gained a following. DDM emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself and not forgetting where you come from. He shares his daily routine as a creative and how he operates based on feeling rather than strict planning. DDM also talks about his interest in fashion and draws inspiration from various historical periods and cultural influences. He reflects on his experience working on the documentary "Dark City Beneath the Beat" and the impact it had on him. Finally, DDM shares his definition of success and his desire for listeners to recognize the thought and effort that goes into his work.🎧🌟 Don't forget to rate and review this episode to support the best in podcasting! 🌟🎧 The Truth In This Art is supported by William G. Baker, Jr. Memorial Fund, the Maryland State Arts Council's Creativity Grant and Mayor's Individual Artist Award - Creative Baltimore Fund (Baltimore). Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos:Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.Support the podcastThe Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

Welcome to "The Truth in This Art." I'm your host, Rob Lee, and I’m thrilled to introduce our next guest: Max Reim, owner of Pie Time, is a Baltimore-based entrepreneur with a passion for food and baking. After completing a bachelor's degree in Stream Ecology, Max's culinary journey began as a line cook. His love for coffee and pies inspired him to start Pie Time, initially selling sweet and savory pies along with specialty coffee at local farmers markets. Over the years, Pie Time grew, partnering with Dear Globe coffee roasters and building a mobile espresso cart for coffee service at farmers markets. In 2018, Max acquired a location in Patterson Park, SE Baltimore, and in October 2020, Pie Time finally opened its doors. Max's focus on using fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients ensures that Pie Time's pies are flavorful and reminiscent of homemade treats. With a background in environmental science, Max brings a unique touch to the culinary world through his progressive and classic techniques in crafting both sweet and savory pies.Today's episode uncovers:The delightful world of Pie Time, a bakery that offers a delightful variety of pies. Learn how their sweet pies evoke the comforting nostalgia of a grandmother's recipe, while their savory pies surprise with innovative flavors that push culinary boundaries.The culinary philosophy of Pie Time, which uses local and seasonal produce is not just a preference, but a deep-rooted priority. Uncover the secrets to crafting pies bursting with the freshest and most flavorful ingredients that change with the seasons.Hear the inspiring story of Pie Time's journey to success during the pandemic. Discover how Max and his team faced and overcame challenges while opening a brick-and-mortar shop, and be amazed by the unwavering support of the vibrant Baltimore community.Dive into the background of Pie Time's visionary, Max Reim. Uncover the story of how his passion for food and cooking led him to create the beloved bakery, where he combines his culinary expertise with his background in environmental science, resulting in pies that are both delicious and thoughtful.Prepare to be transported to the vibrant gastronomic experiences of Japan as Max shares the inspiration behind some of Pie Time's most unique and delightful creations. From the bustling Tokyo fish market to innovative culinary delights, this episode offers a glimpse into the diverse influences that shape Pie Time's exceptional pies.Join us for an engaging conversation as Max Reim shares how he marries traditional and progressive elements in his pies, with sweet pies evoking a grandmother's pie and savory pies offering more innovative flavors. Max emphasizes the importance of using local and seasonal produce in his pies and highlights his favorite seasonal ingredients for each season. He also talks about the challenges of opening a brick-and-mortar shop during the pandemic and the support he has received from the Baltimore community. Max shares his background in cooking and his love for food, particularly his gastronomic experience in Japan. He concludes by inviting listeners to visit Pie Time and support their business.🎧🌟 Don't forget to rate and review this episode to support the best in podcasting! 🌟🎧 The Truth In This Art is supported by William G. Baker, Jr. Memorial Fund, the Maryland State Arts Council's Creativity Grant and Mayor's Individual Artist Award - Creative Baltimore Fund (Baltimore). Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos:Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.Support the podcastThe Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

Welcome to "The Truth In This Art." I'm your host, Rob Lee. In today's episode, we have a captivating conversation with Neru Thee Fourth Fugee, a multidimensional artist hailing from Baltimore, Maryland, who's a genre-bending lyricist, vocalist, composer, producer, and activist. Her music traverses a wide spectrum, from Ambient and Funk to Neo-Soul, Hip Hop, and Psychedelic, creating a distinct and mind-bending experience for her listeners. With trance-like kaleidoscopic harmonies, Neru's abstract lyricism and transcendental melodies are reminiscent of early Parliament Funkadelic and Ms. Hill, while still forging her own original path. She founded the Hippy Trippy collective in 2013 and has since become a prominent figure in Baltimore's art scene, captivating audiences with her solo projects like "The Reincarnation" and "Enlightenment Era." With a captivating stage presence, Neru has shared the spotlight with artists like Princess Nokia, Dan Deacon, Oddisee, IDK, and The Roots. Beyond her musical endeavors, Neru is also a dedicated model and passionate about empowering the youth with knowledge of self.In this episode, we delve into:A captivating discussion as Nehru showcases his original, intriguing, and impactful music style, skillfully blending multiple genres into a unique and mesmerizing sound that sets him apart as an artist.Valuable insights as Nehru delves into the creative process, highlighting how overthinking can hinder artistic expression, and reveals the power of capturing the essence in the first idea or take.Discover the diverse musical influences that shape Nehru's artistry, from gospel and funk to underground artists, models like FKA Twigs, and James Splate, offering a rich tapestry of inspiration.Prepare for an inspiring conversation as Nehru shares his vision to propel Baltimore's music scene forward, create generational wealth through his art, and make a positive impact by empowering the youth with knowledge and inspiration.In this thought-provoking episode, Nehru encourages listeners to embrace curiosity, think independently, ask questions, and cultivate a lifelong passion for learning, emphasizing the importance of continuous growth and self-discovery.Join us for an engaging conversation as Neru emphasizes the importance of being original and not overthinking the creative process. Neru also shares his influences, including gospel, funk, and various underground artists. He talks about his upcoming album and his goals of propelling Baltimore's music scene and creating generational wealth. Neru encourages listeners to think for themselves and seek knowledge, while also appreciating the duality and beauty of Baltimore.🎧🌟 Don't forget to rate and review this episode to support the best in podcasting! 🌟🎧 The Truth In This Art is supported by William G. Baker, Jr. Memorial Fund, the Maryland State Arts Council's Creativity Grant and Mayor's Individual Artist Award - Creative Baltimore Fund (Baltimore). Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos:Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.Support the podcastThe Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the podcast, join host Rob Lee as he engages in an insightful conversation with Kotic Couture(pronounced kāˈädik ko͞oˈto͝or), the dynamic rapper, songwriter, and multifaceted artist, who hails from Baltimore City and stands out with their vivacious gender non-conforming identity, breaking barriers in the music industry. Coming of age in Baltimore's underground art movement and club scene, Kotic Couture blends high-energy club, hip-hop, and poignant lyricism with spoken-word poetry, creating a unique and powerful sound. They gained recognition as an opening act for prominent artists like Azealia Banks, Cupcakke, and BBYMUTHA, solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with. In 2020, they released their first album, "Diary of a Dreamer," receiving praise for their introspective and buoyant style. Kotic Couture's creativity, versatility, and colorful persona captivate audiences, making them a truly unique and innovative artist. Don't miss the chance to listen to their exceptional music and experience their unparalleled talent.In this episode, we explore:The diverse and captivating world of Kotic Couture's music, which blends hip-hop, Baltimore club music, soul, and pop to create a truly unique sound.Inspiring conversation as Kotic Couture shares how their experiences growing up on the Eastern Shore have shaped their artistry and fueled their desire to inspire and uplift queer and non-binary youth.The vibrant and close-knit community of Baltimore's underground scene, where authenticity and creativity thrive, as Kotic Couture takes us on a journey through their artistic roots and influences.Uncover the diverse talents of Kotic Couture beyond music, exploring their expertise in makeup artistry and writing, adding an extra layer of creativity to their already multifaceted persona.Join us in this enlightening episode with Kotic Couture who draw inspiration from her experiences growing up on the Eastern Shore and her desire to inspire queer and non-binary youth. Kotic Couture is known for their high-energy performances and her ability to connect with her audience. She is a proud member of the Baltimore underground scene and values the sense of community and authenticity that it provides. In addition to her music, Kotic Couture is also a skilled makeup artist and writer.🎧🌟 Don't forget to rate and review this episode to support the best in podcasting! 🌟🎧 The Truth In This Art is supported by William G. Baker, Jr. Memorial Fund, the Maryland State Arts Council's Creativity Grant and Mayor's Individual Artist Award - Creative Baltimore Fund (Baltimore). Host: Rob LeeMusic: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.Production:Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel AlexisEdited by Daniel AlexisShow Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and TransistorPhotos:Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.Support the podcastThe Truth In This Art Podcast Fractured Atlas (Fundraising): https://www.fracturedatlas.orgThe Truth In This Art Podcast Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thetruthinthisart.bsky.socialThe Truth In This Art Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthinthisart/?hl=enThe Truth In This Art Podcast Website: https://www.thetruthinthisart.com/The Truth In This Art Podcast Shop: Merch from Redbubble ★ Support this podcast ★