Rising Stars: Meet Essi Sings of Clayton

Today we’d like to introduce you to Essi Sings

Hi Essi, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I have been singing, songwriting, and playing guitar since 2007. Playing at the Boy’s and Girl’s Club Executive Meeting at the Marriot on Glenwood in 2016 led me to perform for them again in Myrtle Beach. This kicked off the performance career you see today. Playing these private events made me realize that I could do more. Being an artist felt powerful; I could appealingly share messages. I was booking shows months apart. In response to the interest in our events, I created Candid Culture Arts. This arts publication blogs monthly about fresh music from NC artists (NC DROPS), hosts artist interviews (NC TALKS), and has art events and tips about the music industry. Today, I play multiple shows monthly and actively support artists through marketing and music education.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I hit a wall of gatekeepers in the arts community, which meant I needed to expand my network. I understand event planners want to book performers they know can put on a show and bring a crowd, but people want variety, and other artists deserve a chance. I connected with inclusive community leaders – we collaborated to bring my music to their events. As I watched how their events went, I became a community leader to help artists be seen and have a place to showcase their work. I partnered with The Nest Raleigh on Fayetteville St to host our first 8 events, and they took off.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar with what you do, what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a traveling songwriter who sings and plays guitar; my specialty is songwriting because my songs are known to be creatively woven and relatable. I am most proud of the local success and interest in my music and artist events because I see that as the most significant way I can help other artists like me. On a bigger scale, I am most proud of the international mark I’ve made with my music, performing from Egypt to Maui to Chicago. I love that feeling, and I plan to continue making my music known around the globe. My ability to put things together, stay organized, and genuinely connect with people has always set me apart.

Do you have any advice for those just starting?
Practice and make art your life – create art daily, and your skill will grow exponentially. Get into the artist community immediately, even if your skill isn’t-should be elsewhere. Open mics and karaoke are great for practicing your sound and stage presence and making artist friends. You can collaborate with your new friends; from there, you can build a portfolio for potential clients who would like your services. I wish I weren’t confident enough to ask/commit to collaborating when I started because this is how opportunities – and eventually connections to friends – are lost. You never know what you can create together; I would tell my past self not to be insecure about working with others and to be consistent no matter what.

Pricing:

• Essi as Your Host – $100
• Electronic Press Kit for Artists – $160
• Live Guitar Performance – Starting at $250
• Custom Music – Starting at $350
• Event Planning – $400.00

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.essisings.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/essi.sings
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EssiSings
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiyrWhFuKmBFLZrJ8ZViEzQ
• Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/realessisings
• Other: https://www.essisings.com/epk