We’re looking forward to introducing you to Author Poet Birdman 313. Check out our conversation below.
Author Poet Birdman, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What is a normal day like for you right now?
A normal day for me has been simple since I have retired. I get up in the mornings I begin it with a prayer and reading a scripture from the bible. Then I go to my music room to play some music on my Bass guitar, listen to music and let the words flow through my mind. I spend an hour just enjoying the peacefulness it brings. If the weather is good, I go to the park to enjoy
nature for inspiration. I take pictures, videos. and take a walk to get different angles throughout the park trails and walkways.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Author/Poet/Birdman313 and I write and self-publish poetry books.
I have 14 poetry books and I’m working on the next one now.
Zoom has been a great source to use to promote books, poems, open mics, readings, and music.
I attend live open mics to read and to promote my poetry books, I shoot videos of other performers as well as myself.
I attend book festivals to sell my books.
I enjoy writing and walking through the park and along the beach.
Nature can be so inspirational, relaxing and encouraging.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
It was my 4th grade teacher who is now deceased Mrs. Gardner who called my parents for a conference.
She explained to them that because of my handwriting I may have a career in writing. She asked them to encourage
me to focus on my writing. She gave my parents an example to work with. I wish she was still alive so I could tell
her how much I appreciate her encouragement and for noticing my hidden talent.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, there have been many times in the past that I wanted to give up writing.
My failure to get my poems accepted for lyrics by top music companies were a lot of my disappointments.
I tried to write articles, short stories, and plays which were also a failure.
Even in my early days of writing poetry, I had doubts that maybe writing wasn’t for me. I have taken breaks from writing
and I always would miss just sitting down to write. It didn’t matter if anyone accepted it or not.
It’s been 25 years since I had those feelings and I’m so glad I didn’t stop writing completely as I have met many
musicians, comedians, and poets from all over the world. Getting books published and being invited for interviews,
poetry festivals, on podcast, and radio programs
Also, enjoy going and participating at book festivals, bookfairs, and in stores.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
The idea that you need an agent to be successful isn’t true. It depends on your goals.
If you’re looking to be in the top 100 then yes having an agent is useful
Self-publishing is on the rise among writers and musicians. Without an agent there is more freedom that one has
with no timelines or deadlines to meet.
I refused to get an agent because I can do the same thing that they do and keep my money.
If you’re not willing to put in the groundwork, then maybe you do need an agent.
Everybody doesn’t have the time because of other commitments in their life.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What do you think people will most misunderstand about your legacy?
People will wonder why I chose Poetry over music and not try other writing venues.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: birdman31355
- Youtube: AuthorPoetBirdman31355
