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1. Can you share a bit about yourself and the journey that led you to where you are today?

I’d say it all started back in 2004 when I was just in preschool, making up songs about driving on the 405. At the time, I had no idea what driving on the 405 even was, but that’s where my journey began. The goal has always remained the same: to be successful, but my approach and definition of success have shifted over the years. Right now, I define success as stability, financial freedom, and the ability to live life on my own terms.

As for my name, I go by Imani (which I shortened to Mani), though my birth name is Chandler. My friend used to call me “Da Brat” because of my high-maintenance ways. I’m many things to many people—mother, marketing specialist, music artist, visual artist, and college student. All of these roles come together and shape the way I view my career. I’ve been honing my marketing skills as it’s a crucial part of my journey, not only for myself but also for other artists I collaborate with. While I’m focusing on marketing, I haven’t forgotten my artistic side. My debut EP is on the horizon, and I’m gearing up for new releases, including a song called Talkin’ Crazy, which I’m currently working on the visuals for.

2. What sparked your passion for marketing, and how did your career in the industry begin?

Initially, I was all about marketing myself as an artist. My dreams of artistry are still alive, but I have a practical side too. I realized that to achieve my dreams, I had to create and develop my own brand. The most exciting part of building a brand is making it unique and memorable while fitting into a specific niche. After some introspection, I discovered that I was actually pretty good at marketing and branding—and this skill is key to my success as an artist.

I’ve been immersed in the music industry since 2017-2018. At first, I was so focused on being an artist that I didn’t realize the bigger picture. I started taking random courses online about marketing and the music industry and eventually decided to pursue a Bachelor’s in Marketing. From there, I leveraged my connections in the music industry and social media to get opportunities with brands like Blank Kanvaz, Death Row, and Ocean Blue Recording Studio in Atlanta.

3. When did you first realize music was your calling, and what was the turning point that set you on this path?

The realization hit me after my PawPaw passed away. I was struggling with grief, and writing poetry and songs became a form of therapy. From that point on, I started writing consistently, capturing my emotions in lyrics. Everything I create is deeply tied to my feelings. For example, Jupiter came about after a painful breakup, and I had to work through the emotions of one person trying harder than the other to make the relationship work. I need to be in the right mental space to create anything because I can’t force authenticity.

4. In moments of challenge or doubt, how do you stay creative and inspired?

When I face challenges, I allow myself to feel all the emotions that come with it. Whether it’s frustration or self-doubt, I sit with those feelings for about 24 hours—no more, no less. After processing that emotion, I write whatever comes to me. It’s my way of clearing creative blockages so I can get back to work.

5. If you could share one powerful message with the world, what would it be?

Be kind to yourself. The world can be tough enough without you adding extra weight. You deserve the same love and grace you give to others.

6. How do you hope to leave a lasting impact on the world through your work?

Whether through marketing, music, or any other aspect of my artistry, I want to be a beacon of light. I want to show people that, no matter what they go through, they can make it. My goal is to be the blueprint that proves you can do it all—whatever your dreams are, with hard work, you can have it.

7. What are the biggest goals you’ve set for yourself this year, and what steps are you taking to achieve them?

This year, my main goals are to finish my EP and consistently take on clients. The first step is jumping in headfirst. My producers are sending me tracks daily, and I’m building a solid team to make sure the project rollout goes as smoothly as possible.