Today we’d like to introduce you to Mali Hightower-Bey.
Mali, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I’ve been making music and doing art all of my life. I got my start in the 6th-grade playing bass and violin in the orchestra for three years until I picked up the guitar. My dad had an old work laptop that I used to make beats and record my music on when I was in middle school. It was very primitive but I got the work done. Throughout my life, I’ve been in all the arts. Music, acting, photography, painting, all those are my attributes that’s why I call myself Sota (state of the art). My freshman year of high school, I was accepted into a performing arts school to further my knowledge but didn’t stay there long, when I transferred to my new school is when I believe that I truly found myself. im in the position I am today because I’ve always been known to showcase my art no matter what. I stand out as far as my sound, entertainment level, and energy.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It hasn’t been a smooth road at all. I went through a very rough patch during 2016 when I lost my older brother, he was my biggest fan. While I was growing up, I and my parent had issues, don’t get me wrong, they are very very supportive and there for me but we had problems with things like school. I was a great student and kid but every time something happened they resorted to ending my art career. So, a lot of the things I was doing, I couldn’t even tell them because I didn’t want to even start problems. I didn’t tell my parents about music, my studio, doing shows, nothing.
Please tell us more about what you do, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I’m SoTa, state of the art, I am everything that falls under ART! When it comes to my music, I mix all my elements and that what makes me stand out. For example, when I perform, most people think I’m going to just rap so that’s when I pull out my guitar and sing! Or even bring my out keyboard and play the piano. Since I love the arts, I tend to do everything in house which makes it hard for people to actually pinpoint what I actually am. They don’t know if I’m a graphic designer, producer, musician or rapper! I am all of those things so that helps me relate to everyone. This sets me apart from others because I can work with any and everyone. Sometimes, the artist wants to work with a producer more than rapper or I can be back up guitar for a lead singer. The possibilities are endless with me.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I don’t have luck or even believe in it. My life is pure positive energy and hard work.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 6789344775
- Email: sotajahra13@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/motorolasota
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/sota_jahra
Image Credit:
luna
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