Today we’d like to introduce you to Caleb Perry.
Caleb, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
As a child, I was always captivated by music and stage performance. Something deep down in my soul said “this is living for you.” From that moment on, I knew I was destined to a life of art.
The first music video I saw was Michael Jackson’s “Remember the Time”. I recall seeing a man unapologetically himself. Long hair, light-skinned but obviously black (to me), a high toned voice like myself, and someone who could dance like none other. I saw myself. At that time, I didn’t believe it was possible. I remember my first album was the first release by a group named “Blaque”. I immediately fell in love with their brand – 3 black women, singing (pop)ular music with r&b vibes to it. I’ve always been into a variety of genres and artist. Seeing that a black person could do something more than just Gospel, R&b or soul exclusively was inspiring.
I began my musical journey in Cleveland, Ohio – which has a sound of its own. I didn’t really fit the sound and had a really hard time finding my sound and my voice. Going back and forth from Gospel to R&b, I was really all over the place. I didn’t understand why I didn’t fit or how to make myself fit. It wasn’t until I moved south that I realized I wasn’t meant to fit in. Once I moved, I began exploring sounds and expanding on my personal interest. I knew I liked pop but adored the R&b intricacies. At the same time, honoring and respecting the depth of lyrical content of more classical singers like Barbra Streisand, Lauren Hill, and many others. Also, ultimately, I knew I wanted to express the love I have for God, the love given to me from God, and the love shared with those in my life.
After years and years of trying to understand “me”, I released my first project, “Higher”. I was still exploring sound at this time. But I had become comfortable with my range and my purpose of expressing “real” love. Not long after that release, I presented the project “To The Top”, which sonically explores more of my R&b interests. Having experienced many new things like homelessness, the loss of my mother and marriage, the project was truly a reflection of my that point in time of my life. These projects allowed me to explore and really identify what my sound is. Pulling from many genres, I was able to find a great blend for my voices and all the music that influences me. However, it was not complete. I knew I wanted to directly express my faith. But there were areas in my personal life where I had to heal and accept the truth grace, mercy and unconditional affection of God. I had to begin forgiving myself for allowing prejudices and preferences to keep me from living fully and enjoying my faith. That process brought about my latest EP, ”I’m All In”.
After being rejected for the sound of my voice, my style, my faith, my ideas of true unchanging love, I am now in a place where I can joyfully sing about my life. I am comfortable in my sound, my style…my preference. It’s taken many years, questions and tears. But by faith, I’ve made it to this point. And I look forward to the journey ahead!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The biggest obstacle has been me! I had to really let go of the opinions of others, who weren’t living my life. I could say financial hardships, and being homeless were obstacles. But for me, the major thing that was in my way was my accepting “his” and “her” truth as my own.
We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
My brand promotes each and every individual to live bravely, boldly, and beautifully without intruding upon another’s truth. I believe sharing and expressing our personal experiences allows for a deep connection with others. Often, we confuse sharing and expressing and attempt to project that onto others. I simply want to share the love that I know. If you rock with it, great! If you don’t, amen! I’m interested in knowing what you do rock with and why. From there, respect and honor can be shared.
From feedback that has been given, my brand really allows others to feel apart of something. I understand the feelings of “not belonging”. It’s truly a blessing to allow others to be able to breathe without worry of judgment or condemnation. That’s not what I’m here for, and gladly avoid doing so.
I pray that my brand continues to inspire authenticity and respect for such. Don’t get me wrong, I know we all do have our preferences and beliefs. However, I believe once we stop holding our truth as the ultimate truth for every individual, we’ll find more peace in our world.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success is happiness and joy. I believe you are successful when at the end of the day, you can lay your head down and truly say, I’ve done well. Without giving excuse or justifying, being happy with all that has happened has come your way, you’ve reached a level of success in your life that brings peace in spite of factors you may be unable to control.
Contact Info:
- Email: cperrymanagement@gmail.ck.
- Instagram: CalebPerryWorld
- Twitter: Calebperryworld
Image Credit:
Impact Church, LaDonnis Perry
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