Today we’d like to introduce you to Darnell Payne.
Hi Darnell, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I was born in Chicago, IL. Both of my parents were dancers; my father had his own dance company (UPHIU), which my mother later joined. Growing up, dance and entertainment was prevalent in my family. Some of my first memories include rehearsals and performances. During my collegiate years at Illinois State University, I founded and directed dance company Urban Movement. From 2012-2020, I mentored, directed, and lead over 100 dancers. I learned how to mix and edit music on my own and choreographed competitions and showcase material. With the help of every single member that came through the Urban Movement doors, we undoubtedly changed the way collegiate dancers and teams were viewed within the Midwestern dance community. Yes, dance took a huge part of my life, but I have always taken interest to many things at one time. Around 2015, I realized I was able to write poems and that it took me to a place that dance was not able to. I’ve always been sociable- however, writing helped me formulate my words in a way that was ambiguous, witty, and full of color. I realized that I was simply more than just a dancer once my poems turned to raps, and my raps turned to full songs! In 2020, I released my first project POETRY BOOK. It is a mixture of my emotions and feelings after a turning point in my life that forced me into solitude– solitude that helped me tap into my music and dance simultaneously. My next project, Poetry Book II, is set to be released by February 2022. This project features an eclectic sound, combining influences from Hip Hop, Rap, RNB, Alt Pop/Rock, and Funk.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
No, it has not been a smooth road! Trials and errors, and tribulations. Struggles simply include just being human. How I overcome these struggles is by embracing the fact that I was brought here to learn from the mistakes I was destined to make; being okay with this– is something you have to take day by day.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a rapper, dancer, mentor. I specialize in all of these areas and have been either trained or self-taught. These once hobbies have now consumed the entirety of my life! However, I am most proud of creating Urban Movement. To have developed a brand that people actually wanted to be a part of and to see those that graduated move on to greater things; lets me know that I did a really great job with an incredible company. I helped people see themselves for who they were and motivated them see their greatest potential. The moments shared will be something I cherish for the rest of my life!
Currently, my music has been my most prominent priority. My new project includes 15+ songs that exemplify all of the different versions of me. My quick wit, metaphorical comparisons, and street poetic lyrics are some examples of what sets me apart from others. My charisma, discipline, out of box thinking are some of my best qualities. I understand without these qualities, including many others, nothing will really happen the way you want them to!
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Finding a great mentor and networking, in general, can be tough. You have to be careful. However, when you find a good network of people, you must be willing to listen, communicate, and be accountable. People want to know that you’re serious. What has worked for me with building a network is putting myself in situations that I have to rise to the occasion. With this mindset, I have been able to work with some of the best and also provide opportunity for those within my network of associates. Receiving and providing praise and constructive criticism goes a long way when building rapport and business relationships in addition to finding a mentor.
Contact Info:
- Email: darnellpayne@yahoo.com
- Instagram: @darnellpayne
- SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/niyn999
