Photo by Kayla Suricio
Listen to Magnolia Park's newest single "Sick Of It All" + more here!
For you personally, what have you experienced as a band with POC/Black members in the music scene (either good or bad). What’s your perspective on POC/Black people in the scene?
The response for this band with having POC members have been actually very welcoming and positive. We haven’t experienced any negativity from the community, just funny comments here and there. Our perspective is that we need more of us in the scene, we get pushed away because some labels don’t know how to use us. I think if there were more of us in the scene there would be even more amazing music, outlooks and overall view of the world.
What inspired you to work in the music industry and what do you hope to achieve?
What inspired us mainly is the fact that music has one way or another saved each and every one of us. With our abilities collectively we can really make a difference as well. We hope to be that light to as many people as we can just like other artists were the shining lights for us.
Growing up, did you feel like there was a good amount of representation for you in the media and/or music scene? If you had someone who you looked up to or still look up to, whether they’re a musician or not, who is this person?
Growing up we definitely felt that there were representing us but what was truly lacking was the more prominent POC influence, especially in the pop punk community. A few people we look up to definitely is Linkin Park, Kendrick Lamar, J.Cole,System Of A Down. Just to name a few, they definitely made it known about issues in the world that needed to be fixed.
What are some ways non-POC allies can support POC?
Not being afraid to stand up for POC rights for one. Truly talk to POC about the issues they are facing and making it known that things need to change. Keep the peace because that’s all we have to go on to truly be safe. That’s just a few things we can start with.
Do you have any advice for aspiring artists?
Don’t quit or put your work down, if someone doesn’t like what you’re doing or your craft then keep doing what you love and hone in on your skills. Those who don’t like it, don’t have to listen to it but if it makes you proud and genuinely happy then keep at it. Surround yourself with like minded people and build a great support system. Don’t be afraid to truly be you.
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