Indie Music

Indie Music Artist Spotlight – Donnell Isaac

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Ever since his debut in 2008 as a rising star in Neo Soul Inspirational music with his inspiration album “New Moments New Choice” Donnell Isaac (born Donnell Isaac Charlton), has been creating waves in the industry.

Music isn’t the only thing that Donnell is talented in, as he has made appearances in front of the camera on TV with “Law and Order” and in the movie “My Brother”… Read More About Donnell Isaac Here

 

1.) When did you start making music?

 

I started making music in 1999. I put out my first official project New Moments New Choice in 2006.

 

2.) What elements and/or characteristics made you say to yourself that you wanted to do music for a living? Who are your influences/heroes/role models? 

 

Music has always been a part of my life. Growing up in a talented family, my family was full of musically gifted individuals. One of my influences was my uncle the late Moses McNeil who was one of the original members of the 70s group Four below zero with hits like “Esp”. Watching my uncle over the course of my life had a major impact on me as a role model.

 

3.) If you could compare yourself to an already established artist, who would that be and why? If you don’t like to compare yourself, then music-wise, what separates you from other musicians? 

 

If I had to compare myself to an already established artist I would definitely have to say Anthony Hamilton. Not that our sounds are alike. But because love and relation and life experiences is what you hear from our music. Authentic and relatable.

 

4.) How do you prepare yourself to write certain songs? 

 

Most of the time when I’m alone and have a chance to think, or something has happened that has influenced something around me. I never set out to just sit down at a table and say “I am gonna write me a song today” lol.  Sometimes I wish I had that in me, I would write all day. Inspiration is what drives me.

 

5.) Unfortunately the music industry is full of talented individuals who just don’t get any recognition for their talent and/or work. What do you plan to do to make sure you stand out and get noticed? 

 

Unfortunately yes. However,  I’m going to continue doing what I do, the way I do it. This is what I love. My passion and calling. And I believe if I stay true to my art and remain humble than as the Bible says “my gift will make room for me.” Not to preach or anything lol, I  just truly believe that.

 

6.) Would you rather be on a major label or would you rather stay independent? Why or why not? In regards to the music industry itself, do you think that the traditional music industry model as we know it is dead? 

 

Independent because I like creative control. Financially having that  “machine” known as the major label to help with marketing dollars would be the why I’d go major. I do not think the traditional models as we know are dead. I just think we have more of a challenge with understanding consumer purchasing power and how its influential in the buyer’s decision-making. I also think that everything has its place. 

 

7.) Everyone in life goes through adversity of some sort. Is there anything in your life that has any influence on the kind of songs you write? What is the most difficult thing you’ve had to endure on your path to becoming a musician? 

 

Yes, rejection. Being told you do not have what we are looking for. This drives me to no end. I’m motivated and driven by rejection. It makes me work and grind that much harder.

 

8.) Social media is obviously an extremely important element in today’s world, especially when it comes to business, branding, marketing, etc. With that being said, do you think an artist will be able to survive in today’s music industry if they’re not social media savvy? 

 

I think the success rate of any artist survival becomes challenged, when not involved with social media. Social media has proven  over the years to be the way to reach many consumers and your audience.

 

9.) Artists who try to make music for the general public and make more money are usually seen as “sell-outs.” Do you see it that way and if so, what do you plan to do to make sure your music stays true to your brand and make a good living at the same time without having to “sell out”? 

 

I do not see it that way. I believe in individuality, so what works for one may not work for you. You have to be in tune with your calling. Know who you are in your craft. Be true to you and trust your process. And make the music you love. Someone is listening and watching.

 

10.) Professionally, where do you see yourself 5 years from now? 

 

Recording and touring and releasing more music as I desire. I want to open an independent label to help artist who have experienced rejection and given up on what they do. I want to show and prove to them the power of self. And lets create and make money!

 

 
 

Donnell Isaac is also available for concerts. Booking agents can contact him at donnellisaac.com if they are interested in getting him out to a special event of value.

 
For all media request please contact: Cece Vance at info@vancenycc.com 
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