Meet Exhale Taop | Music Artist & Self-published Author

We had the good fortune of connecting with Exhale Taop and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Exhale, why did you pursue a creative career?
We grow up in a society where success is usually measured by going to college and working within a career until you reach the age of retirement. I decided to pursue a creative career to feed my soul and show my son that we can do anything we put our hearts to, as long as we work hard at it. I remember growing up and only being influenced to get a degree and find a state job. Once I did start attending college, I didn’t feel passionate about what I was doing. I decided I didn’t want to settle or live up to anyone else’s expectations. Being a music artist and creative has taught me so much about life. There are ups and downs, struggles and success, but it is so rewarding to pursue something you love, especially if you can start making money from it. I encourage everyone to take that leap, and find a way to build your life around something you actually care about and enjoy!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art started as creating music and has actually expanded in various directions. Doing music really pulled me out of my shell and allowed me to be surrounded by all kinds of creatives. I definitely kept my talents to myself before I started recording and performing. Once I started, it showed me that some things don’t just have to be a hobby and that I can share my art with the world. If I didn’t start releasing music and performing, I probably would have never released my book “Anticipated Eternity” or started my tooth gem business “Get Icy Wit Ex”. The journey has not been easy. I have had many long days, sleepless nights, time away from my son, and it can sometimes feel like an emotional rollercoaster. Starting any business is hard because it’s usually a huge investment, before you start seeing growth and making a profit. Support from people that really don’t even know me has played a huge role in me overcoming doubt, challenges, and wanting to give up. It feels amazing to know that your art can touch or speak to someone. Throughout this journey I have learned the value in sharing myself with the world. I have influenced people in ways I will probably never know, just by consistently pursuing my dreams. If I could express one thing to the world it would literally just be to follow your dreams. Take the leap into whatever it is you’re passionate about and don’t stop! Right now I’m hype about the release of my new single “Lotus”, which is on all streaming platforms (Apple Music, Spotify, etc) as of 10/20/2023. I took a short break from music to build my tooth gem business and really find myself as an artist, so I’m beyond excited to share this new vibe with the world!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Unfortunately I feel like I don’t get out as much as I would like to unless I’m performing or vending, but I would definitely take them to Boxcar in Durham which is basically a barcade. I would also take them to Shiki Sushi because you can’t beat their buy one get one sushi rolls! Other than that, I’d take them to some local events curated by AyeeeDubb, Icey Da Boss, Alicia Marie, Mir I Am, or DJ Wicked! If we had time we could hit the highway and go to Hanging Rock for some nature vibes or CAM Raleigh, which is an amazing art museum/exhibit.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to my son. He has been the ultimate motivation for all my growth and success. I was young when I had him and I didn’t really have any concrete goals. After he was born I completely changed my life because I wanted to give him the world. As far as becoming a music artist and pursuing a dream that many would view as unrealistic, I was really motivated by showing him the world is his oyster and he can be/do anything he wants! He loves to see me perform, come to my studio sessions, and he’s always telling his friends at school about my music, poetry book, and even my tooth gem business. His spirit really keeps me going because I don’t have a choice but to set a good example for him! I definitely can’t quit now!

Website: https://linktr.ee/exhaletaop

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exhaletaop/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ExhaleTAOP