Today we’d like to introduce you to Lola Ladae’.
Lola Ladae’, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Well in 2018 I decided I was going to go back to school. So, I applied for multiple vet schools and I started to schedule my veterinarian shadowing hours. I started the application process into a school in South Africa and Tuskegee, Alabama. As I was getting everything together and finishing up some classes, I wasn’t happy. I wasn’t excited like I thought I would be. At that moment, I knew I needed to do what I REALLY wanted to do, and that was music. So in March of 2018, I somehow managed to get three jobs and worked my butt off to save money and move to Atlanta, GA to pursue my music career. I bought a little $700 car and drove that baby from Saint Louis, MO to Atlanta on June 15, 2018. While working those jobs, I was so excited! I was happy that I finally was about to start thinking about me and stepping out on a limb. It’s been a year now and this move has been the best decision I have made in my life. The network that I have, the friends that I have made, the important people I have met. Within a year, I have already moved into my own apartment, I created a band and we perform all around Atlanta. I am also the bass play for an all-black woman rock band called The Txlips (The Tulips). My music is starting to make moves and I have learned so much and it’s a continual learning journey.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I always tell people that ever since I moved to Atlanta, literally everything has gone right for me. No situation I have been in has made the road bumpy or hard. It’s all part of the journey so I guess I don’t see it as a struggle.
Please tell us more about what you do, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
Well, I recently just changed my artist name from Armani Swayze to Lola Ladae. I’m a singer/songwriter and musician – Bass player. I tend to sing anything from R&B to funk. I even play soft rock music with my band and really nice Beyoncé covers! I’ve been singing all my life but I just started to take the journey serious around 2016. I bought my bass guitar the same year but only got consistent with it in 2018 when I moved to Atlanta. I also am the curator of a secret concert series called “The Basement: Unplugged” where artist, majority from Atlanta but some from other cities, come and perform in front of a crowd who has been eager to see them. It features live music, live art, DJs, food and vendors. It’s a secret location event so you have to RSVP to receive the address. Once someone goes to that length to support you, it means that much more. This is why I created this platform for all the arts. Our Instagram is @thebasementunplugged
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
I personally define success as accomplishing the goals that you have set out for yourself. Bouncing back from any obstacles and just being proud of yourself.
Contact Info:
- Email: lolaladae@gmail.com
- Instagram: Lolaladae
Image Credit:
Marc Mayes, Bonfire ATL
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