Meet Lakeita Valon

Lakeita, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
As a child, I was in Ballet for six years, cheerleading for three years, and started singing in the choir at church. At the age of 13, I began to write music. Some were completely original and some were covers to my favorite songs. Something that most people don’t know is that I originally wanted to be a rapper, so I started writing raps and would only sing the chorus. I guess because singing came naturally to me, that I felt rapping would challenge me. I also, since I was six years old, wanted to be a fashion designer for doll clothing. I’ve always been passionate about multiple avenues of the arts, but I worked really hard to figure out which one was at the top of my list. Naturally, it was music.

Eventually, I started playing around with a program called Audacity, where I would record my vocals, pretending I had my own little studio back in the day. Over the years, I continued to pursue my passion in the arts and went to college to study music, theatre, and dace. In 2015, I graduated from Texas A&M Corpus with a BA of Arts in all of those areas. I also graduated from the Neal Hamil Agency for modeling and acting in 2013 (Houston, TX).

At this moment in time, I’ve progressed into a solo artist (Lakeita Valon), I have a band of my own (Venus Lily), and I’m a producer/ DJ (Mocha Loca). I have always had a passion for photography as well, along with my sister (Amber Chauntal), who is a fashion and beauty blogger. This may all seem like doing too much, but I feel that if it’s something I want to do, do it while I’m alive and work harder at it each day.

I refer to myself as the “Ultimate Freelancer” which is now my photography page name. I strive to be the best version of myself each and every day by working extremely hard to achieve all desired goals, making memorable connections, and leaving a lasting impression on those I encounter. My goal is to continue to tell my story through every aspect and form of art I create in hopes to inspire, set a positive example, and maintain my morality. I believe that the only way to be successful is to be your true self, treat others better than you want to be treated, and remain humble.

Has it been a smooth road?
The road has definitely had its ups and downs. Some challenges included my stepdad, who raised me, passing away my freshman year of college. Shortly after, there was a time where my family was struggling after his death and I was on my hustle. I got a job closer to my school and worked hard that entire summer sleeping on my friend’s couch. Then, I got my first official apartment, so that way, no matter what, my family could always have somewhere to stay if others turn their backs on us. That was years ago, and from that, we are all stronger and are beyond blessed. Other struggles came from just not having all the funds to fully do what I needed in music and pay bills at the same time. However, I’m no quitter and I don’t make excuses. So I worked three jobs, paid my bills, and over time, purchased everything I needed to make a starter at home studio. During the times where I didn’t have my equipment, I used that time to write and absorb as much knowledge as I could so I could be ready when the time came.

Although life has its struggles, I try not to think of the negative things and no matter what obstacles come my way, I know that God has a plan for me and he wouldn’t give me more than I can handle. I feel that obstacles, trials, and friction are what builds character and makes us stronger. If you allow these things to tear you down, then it will only get worse from there. Know who you are, take the time to soul search, and never back down.

We’d love to hear more about your music.
I am a singer-songwriter, pianist, leader of a band, freelance photographer, dancer, and dj/producer. I love every single aspect of the arts and my goal is to get better and challenge myself to be the best version of me. I feel what sets me apart from many is that I don’t believe in limitations, small minded mentalities, and I am truly genuine. I want everyone around me to succeed genuinely. I know people may feel that we are all in competition with each other but I do believe that there is enough to go around. I am most proud of my accomplishments because I do what I say I’m going to do. I feel that I’ve been blessed to have supporters who cheer me on, but I can honestly say, no one gave me any handouts. It makes you appreciate your growth so much more.

Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I love the diversity of cultures in our city and how big the arts scene is here. I love that it is very innovative and always bringing something different and raw to the table. What I dislike is that there are very very few people that will try to help each other move up as well. There are some rare gems like Ike, for example, who get blessed and try to bless others along the way. I am that same way and unfortunately, I feel that this city has the “competition” or “survival of the fittest” mentality.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.lakeitavalon.com
• Email: lakeitavalon@gmail.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/valonista
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/lakeitavalonmusic
• Twitter: www.twitter.com/lakeitavalon
• Other: www.youtube.com/valon201