Meet Ricardo “SICKFLO” Valentine

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ricardo “SICKFLO” Valentine.

Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
Born in Baltimore, MD, moved to ATLANTA in 1997 to pursue a career in the music industry. Along the journey of music, I acquired many accolades, music awards and performed in well over 3,000 plus venues.

I was managed by and signed to hip hop Legend Christopher “PLAY” Martin of KID N PLAY (House Party) movies, etc. Currently working/touring with the Legendary hip hop group ONYX. Father of 3 in which two are artists also. My oldest is the new R&B star 6lack and the youngest son i47 is on his way into the music fame as well.

I picked up the love for photography in 2015 while shooting a music video. I started two photography companies in 2017 – GLOBAL FLO PICS and The Shooters, LLC. Since the start I’ve been doing photography during my non-traveling seasons shooting for celebrities like, Terri J. Vaughn of The Steve Harvey Show and her company Nina Holiday. Currently the lead photographer and music director for a new ATLANTA reality tv show coming called 419 Models.

Photography has been my outlet to the norm. A way to be creative but serve others at the same time. My way of stepping out of the spotlight and enjoying helping others experience their moment of being in the spotlight.
Photography keeps me grounded and humble. One day I’m on the road rapping in front of thousands and signing autographs and the next day. I’m finding my position to catch the perfect shot for an aspiring artist or model. I’m having the time of my life balancing my talents and gifts. They take me everywhere that I love to go, around the globe.

Please tell us about your art.
Music and Photography are my go to gifts. One lady once said to me after she saw a picture that I took, “Your photographs speak life, it’s like one can see your passion through the composition.” That inspired me to shoot more. I’m self-taught however I’m surrounded by great teachers who give me tips and advice all the time. If I’m not out on a photoshoot, I’m planning the next venue or being booked to either host or rap at a show. Everything I do is out of purpose and passion. I want people to feel love and be inspired by any and every talent that I share. I do MUSIC & PHOTOGRAPHY because I can’t not do it. It’s wired in my system. Passion pushes me daily.

What do you think about conditions for artists today? Has life become easier or harder for artists in recent years? What can cities like ours do to encourage and help art and artists thrive?
I believe that the conditions for artists today are great. It’s an exciting time to be an artist. Some say that the market is saturated but I see nothing but opportunity when you align yourself with likeminded people and actually put yourself out there. You can never want a thing and not go after it.

Atlanta is full of entrepreneur’s and people that love to support those that are Movers & Shakers. It’s such a gumbo. The diversity of Atlanta is encouraging in itself. As for how we can help, we can keep leading by example. This Platform right here is a perfect example so, I have to pause for a second to say Thank You!

How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
People can see and support my work through Instagram.

http://instagram.com/globalflopics
http://instagram.com/sickflo100mad

Contact Info:

• Phone: 678.935.8247
• Email: globalflopics@gmail.com
• Instagram: http://instagram.com/globalflopics
• Facebook: http://facebook.com/sickflo100mad

Image Credit:
@globalflopics
@419models

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