When you grow up on Chicago’s southeast side, survival is an art form of its own. For Xochi, a musician and creative force, the struggle wasn’t just about making ends meet but finding her voice in a world that often dismissed artistic dreams. Raised in a historically industrial neighborhood, Xochi saw firsthand the devastation that followed the closure of the steel mills. These challenges shaped her worldview but never broke her spirit.

“My family, like so many others, had to navigate a world of loss—jobs, homes, even loved ones,” Xochi shared. For her, these losses planted the seeds of resilience. Raised in a household that celebrated music and art, Xochi found an outlet in creativity. Her father’s punk rock band, Dead Still Mill, was not only a tribute to their community’s struggles but a beacon of expression.

Yet, the road to becoming an artist wasn’t simple. “Growing up in South Chicago, saying you wanted to be an artist was almost laughable,” she said. Expectations leaned heavily toward stability—school, work, and financial security. But Xochi’s determination to create never wavered. Her music became both a sanctuary and a platform, allowing her to process personal trauma and societal pressures.

Trauma, as she explained, wasn’t just an obstacle but a wellspring for her art. “I didn’t want to be defined by what happened to me,” Xochi said. “Instead, I wanted to take control and tell my story on my terms.” Music offered her that control. Whether it was processing the pain of losing loved ones or navigating the complexities of identity and belonging, Xochi transformed her experiences into melodies and lyrics that resonate deeply.

Her journey back to music wasn’t linear. After stepping away for years, she rediscovered her passion with the help of producer Ron. Their collaboration marked a turning point. “In 20 minutes, we created something that felt like a piece of my soul,” Xochi said, describing the first single they produced together.

Faith also played a pivotal role in Xochi’s evolution. While she always believed in God, it wasn’t until she embraced her spirituality fully that she found peace. “Giving my pain and control to Jesus changed everything,” she said. This newfound faith not only guided her personal growth but also began to shape her music, infusing it with themes of redemption and purpose.

Her advice to aspiring artists? Create without fear. “There’s no wrong way to make art,” Xochi emphasized. “Whether it’s for an audience or just for yourself, art has the power to make you feel whole.” This sentiment is a cornerstone of her life’s philosophy and one she hopes others will embrace.

Xochi’s music defies easy categorization, blending hip-hop, ska, R&B, and house influences. But beyond genres, it’s her authenticity and willingness to be vulnerable that set her apart. Each track is a reflection of her life—unpolished yet profoundly beautiful, much like the southeast side of Chicago itself.

Today, as an award-winning artist with a management deal and a growing audience, Xochi remains deeply rooted in her community and committed to uplifting others through her work. Whether it’s encouraging someone to pick up a paintbrush, write a song, or simply find their purpose, her message is clear: “Your story matters, and your art is your voice.”

Jeff Yang’s life is a mosaic of music, art, and a cultural journey that began halfway across the world. Born in Taiwan to parents who had fled wartime China, Jeff’s early years were shaped by stories of resilience, courage, and family legacy. When he immigrated to the United States at age eight, Jeff found himself in a world that felt foreign. Yet, amidst the disorientation, music emerged as a constant, becoming his language, his grounding force, and ultimately, his purpose.

Growing up in New Jersey and later Seattle, Jeff discovered that music transcends language and culture. “No matter where you’re from, music has a way of connecting you to others,” he shares. He embraced the violin at an early age, inspired by his older half-siblings and a violin left behind by his sister. As he progressed, Jeff’s skill grew, and music became a bridge that connected him to new cultures and communities. Pursuing this path led him to a scholarship at Northwestern University in Chicago, where he was able to dive fully into the world of orchestras, eventually performing internationally.

Jeff’s journey took him across the world, where he performed in places as far-reaching as Italy, Russia, and Israel. Performing in different cultures taught him the power of art to bridge gaps in understanding, and he noticed that regardless of language, music was universally felt. As he put it, “I was good at music and good at moving people.” His ability to convey emotion across cultures reinforced his belief that music has an unmatched power to connect people.

Beyond performance, Jeff’s career evolved into a unique blend of art and experience, integrating sensory elements to create immersive events. Jeff’s vision is to use music, scents, and visuals to craft moments that transcend everyday life. His first event, in 2018, was a test of this idea—a multisensory experience that brought together music, art installations, and carefully crafted scents. Collaborating with chefs, perfumers, and visual artists, Jeff’s event invited attendees to experience art through all senses. “The beauty of life is in its subtleties, in the things that make you feel alive,” Jeff explains.

For Jeff, it’s about more than the art itself—it’s about capturing those moments of wonder that modern life often pushes aside. In a world where technology makes everything instantly accessible, he believes we risk losing touch with what makes us feel deeply connected to the present moment. “We’re so used to things being fed to us that we stop paying attention,” he reflects. By combining multiple senses, Jeff’s events remind people to feel and engage in the richness of each moment.

Reflecting on his life as an artist, Jeff speaks to the value of risk-taking and self-discovery. He acknowledges that pursuing a life in the arts hasn’t always been easy; there were moments where he played on street corners or relied on side gigs to make ends meet. But for Jeff, it’s all been part of a larger mission—to create experiences that inspire people to see life from a fresh perspective. “Knowing yourself and what you’re good at is essential,” he says. By embracing his unique strengths, Jeff has been able to create something truly unique and fulfilling.

Through his creative events, Jeff has touched the lives of many, reminding us that art has a profound role in fostering empathy and understanding. His projects with In the Realm of Senses—a platform that uses art to explore humanity’s shared experiences—blend music, food, and fragrance to create transformative encounters. From multisensory dinners paired with classical music to immersive outdoor concerts, Jeff’s work speaks to the value of art in cultivating peace and harmony.

Today, Jeff continues to create these experiences in Chicago and beyond. By connecting people through shared sensory experiences, he hopes to inspire a deeper appreciation for art, culture, and life itself. It’s a reminder that, in a fast-paced world, the most meaningful experiences are those that make us pause and feel.

Zhanna Biletska’s story is one of courage, creativity, and an unyielding commitment to growth. Born and raised in Ukraine, Zhanna’s passion for art was evident from an early age. By the time she was nine, she was already attending art school, honing her skills in drawing, painting, and composition. But the journey that brought her to where she is today—a thriving artist and photographer based in Chicago—was anything but linear.

Zhanna’s artistic journey is marked by moments of discomfort and fear, which she has consistently confronted head-on. This theme of stepping out of her comfort zone is a thread that runs through her entire life. She recalls, “I was really, really scared too, but I just put myself in the situation that put me out of my comfort zone. And I think it's the only way you can grow and change.”

This willingness to face fear has taken her far beyond the boundaries of her hometown in Ukraine. Zhanna moved to the United States over a decade ago, initially just to travel and explore a new culture. What was meant to be a temporary visit turned into a permanent move when she decided to stay in Chicago, a city she now calls home.

Zhanna’s decision to join the U.S. Army—a rare path for an immigrant artist—was driven by a practical need to expedite her citizenship process. However, this experience turned out to be one of the most challenging and transformative periods of her life. As someone who never considered herself an athlete, the physical demands and the cultural shock of military life were daunting. Yet, Zhanna persevered, pushing through self-doubt and emerging stronger on the other side.

Her advice to others, particularly immigrants facing similar challenges, is simple yet profound: “You have to go towards your fear.” Zhanna believes that staying in your comfort zone stifles growth. For her, true change and personal development only come when you push yourself beyond what feels safe and familiar.

This philosophy extends to her art. Zhanna’s love for plein air painting, a style that involves capturing the natural world outdoors, is a testament to her commitment to engaging directly with her surroundings, no matter how uncomfortable it might be. Despite initial doubts about whether she could make a living from her art, Zhanna found success by staying true to what she loved. She shares, “You have to do what you actually love, not what you think will make money.”

Zhanna’s story also highlights the importance of community. While Chicago’s vibrant Ukrainian community provided a sense of familiarity, it was her desire to connect with a broader audience that fueled her growth. She started interacting more with English-speaking clients and artists, even though it was challenging. “I was so embarrassed, like when they are talking, and I’m just smiling. But that’s part of the process,” she says.

This drive to connect with others, despite the language barrier and cultural differences, has not only helped Zhanna grow as an artist but has also expanded her network in significant ways. Her work, particularly her commissioned paintings of local Chicago architecture, has garnered attention and praise, leading to more opportunities and a growing client base.

As an artist and entrepreneur, Zhanna has had to wear many hats—everything from creator to marketer to customer service representative. The demands of running her own business have sometimes led to burnout, but she’s learned to recognize when it’s time to take a step back. “There have been moments that I was burned out, that I got insane,” she admits, underscoring the importance of self-care in sustaining creativity.

For aspiring artists, Zhanna offers this advice: don’t be discouraged by the difficulty of making a living from your art. Keep practicing, keep refining your skills, and most importantly, keep doing what you love. “It’s crazy how that happens—when you’re chasing it, it runs away from you. And then when you stop chasing, it starts chasing you,” she reflects.

Zhanna Biletska’s story is a powerful reminder that the path to success is rarely straight. It’s filled with twists and turns, moments of fear, and challenges that push us to our limits. But as Zhanna has shown, it’s also these very moments that have the potential to unlock our greatest growth and creativity.

Dariel Love, a performing artist with roots on the West Side of Chicago, isn't just another name in the music industry. His story is one of unapologetic individuality, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of authenticity. As he sat down to discuss his life and career, Dariel made it clear that his path was never meant to mimic anyone else's. "I'm the first of my kind," he confidently states, embracing the fact that his journey is uniquely his own.

Growing up in the Austin neighborhood, Dariel's experiences were shaped by a blend of city life and small-town influences. His family moved to a tiny town in Illinois when he was ten, giving him a fresh perspective on life that most kids his age never encountered. This duality of experiences—urban summers with his father in Chicago and quieter school years in a predominantly white town—helped him see the world from multiple vantage points, shaping the artist he would become.

Music wasn't just a hobby for Dariel; it was a calling. From a young age, he found himself drawn to the rhythms and lyrics that filled the airwaves. He recalls how he and his older brother would buy blank cassette tapes from the beauty supply store and record their own raps using a box radio. "I knew every word to every song," he reminisces, highlighting his early passion for music. But for Dariel, music was more than just something to enjoy—it was a medium through which he could express his deepest thoughts and experiences.

As he matured, Dariel's vision for his life became more refined. What began as a simple desire to rap evolved into aspirations of owning a record label, publishing his own music, and eventually, exploring other creative avenues. "The more you paint, the clearer it becomes," he explains, likening his life to a canvas that he's been meticulously crafting over the years. His journey isn't just about making music—it's about creating a legacy that transcends the boundaries of any one industry.

Dariel's approach to life is one of intentionality and purpose. He doesn't just want to be an artist; he wants to be a multifaceted creator who controls every aspect of his brand. This drive led him to explore real estate, fashion, and even screenwriting, each endeavor adding another layer to his ever-expanding canvas. "This is America, dawg. You better own something," he asserts, embodying the entrepreneurial spirit that fuels his many pursuits.

But for all his success, Dariel remains grounded in the belief that it's his individuality that sets him apart. He urges others to embrace their uniqueness, reminding them that their experiences are unlike anyone else's. "You are your individual, and your individuality is what's going to play out for you in the long run," he advises, offering a powerful message for anyone struggling to find their own voice.

For Dariel, it's not about chasing fame or fortune—it's about staying true to who he is and enjoying the ride along the way. He balances his ambitious goals with a genuine love for life, whether he's attending fashion shows, connecting with interesting people, or simply enjoying the company of a beautiful woman. "You gotta enjoy yourself, man," he says, emphasizing the importance of balancing the highs and lows with a sense of joy and fulfillment.

Looking ahead, Dariel's vision continues to grow. He's working on a screenplay that has already spanned over 500 pages, and he's eager to add more properties to his real estate portfolio. Traveling is also on his list, with dreams of visiting clean, beautiful places like Fukuoka, Japan. But no matter where life takes him, Dariel's focus remains on completing the vision that's been with him from the start. "I gotta see it to the end," he says with determination.

Dariel Love is more than just a performing artist—he's a creator, a thinker, and a visionary. His story is a testament to the power of staying true to oneself and the importance of crafting a life that's uniquely your own.

Kathleen Rietz is an artist who embodies the essence of creativity and determination. Born and raised in Peoria, Illinois, Kathleen’s love for nature and art developed early, largely influenced by the slower pace of life and the natural surroundings of her hometown. Her passion for art was nurtured by her mother, who recognized Kathleen’s inclination toward creativity and encouraged her to explore it fully. Even as a child, Kathleen found solace in painting and drawing, preferring these activities over more conventional pastimes.

When Kathleen was 14, her family moved to Chicago, a city that would later become a significant influence on her artistic journey. The transition from rural Peoria to the vibrant cultural landscape of Chicago opened new doors for Kathleen. Visits to the Art Institute and the city's artistic community helped shape her understanding and appreciation of art, leading her to pursue formal education in the field.

However, Kathleen’s path to becoming a full-time artist was not without its challenges. After completing her studies, she entered the corporate world, where she spent over 30 years working in commercial art and product development. Despite her success in the corporate sector, Kathleen never lost sight of her passion for fine art. She continued to paint on the side, honing her craft and slowly building a reputation for herself in the art world.

Kathleen’s decision to leave her corporate job and pursue art full-time was spurred by a deeply personal experience. Her sister’s battle with breast cancer served as a poignant reminder of life’s fragility and the importance of pursuing one’s true passions. Realizing that time is precious, Kathleen took the bold step of resigning from her stable job to focus on her art and spend more time with her sister. It was a risky move, but one that Kathleen has never regretted.

Her first year as a full-time artist was marked by moments of uncertainty and self-doubt. Kathleen faced the typical challenges of any entrepreneur—financial instability, fear of failure, and the pressure to succeed. Yet, she persisted, driven by her passion and the belief that her art could make a difference. “You can sit there and complain about it, or you can learn to change,” Kathleen says, reflecting on the lessons she has learned along the way.

Kathleen’s art is deeply personal, often reflecting her love of nature and her experiences growing up in Illinois. Her work is characterized by its vibrant colors and intricate details, which draw the viewer into her world. Over the years, her paintings have garnered significant attention, and she has successfully transitioned from corporate life to becoming a respected figure in the art community.

In addition to her painting, Kathleen has also ventured into design, creating a line of silk scarves that feature her artwork. This endeavor, which began while she was still working in the corporate world, has become another outlet for her creativity and a way to bring her art to a broader audience. Kathleen’s ability to blend her artistic talents with her business acumen has been key to her success.

Kathleen’s story is one of resilience and adaptability. She has learned to see every obstacle as an opportunity, a chance to grow and evolve both personally and professionally. “What can I do in this moment that’s going to take me to the next place in life and in my career?” she asks, a question that has guided her through the ups and downs of her journey.

Now, Kathleen is focused on sharing her knowledge and experience with others. She is passionate about teaching, particularly young people, and is eager to give back to the community that has supported her. Whether through online art courses or in-person workshops, Kathleen hopes to inspire the next generation of artists to pursue their dreams with the same determination and passion that has driven her.

Kathleen Rietz’s story is a testament to the power of following one’s passion and the impact that art can have on both the artist and the world around them. Through her work, Kathleen continues to create beauty, inspire others, and leave a lasting legacy in the world of art.

In the latest episode of EVOKED, hosted by Greg Dekalb, Geramy Webster, better known as Gee Get Money, shares his story of finding his voice in the competitive music industry. Geramy's journey from the west side of Chicago to becoming a recognized name in the music scene is a tale of resilience, creativity, and self-belief. He offers insights not just for aspiring artists, but for anyone looking to carve out their unique space in a crowded field.

Geramy's introduction to music came from his mother, a former rapper, who inspired him with her passion. Watching her perform and soaking in the music from legends like the Jackson 5 and The Temptations, Geramy developed a deep love for music. This early exposure set the foundation for his own musical journey, one that he pursued with determination and a clear vision.

One of the most compelling aspects of Geramy's story is his understanding that the only real competition is oneself. He emphasizes that success isn't about outdoing others but about consistently putting out good material. "If you're putting out good material, they're gonna start to put you in a category of being a competitor," Geramy explains. This mindset has guided him through his career, helping him stay focused on his craft rather than getting distracted by the success of others.

Geramy also touches on the importance of staying true to one's creative vision. Despite opportunities to sign with major labels, he chose to remain independent, valuing creative control over financial gain. "I care about being creative and how I put these projects out there that are dear to me," he says. This decision reflects a broader lesson about the importance of aligning one's work with personal values, a principle that can be applied to any field.

For those looking to break into the music industry or any competitive field, Geramy's advice is to focus on self-improvement and authenticity. He believes that understanding the business side of the industry is crucial, as it allows artists to retain control over their work and maximize their earnings. "Learn the business on how to move that record, who to talk to, how to talk to them," he advises, highlighting the importance of education and networking.

Geramy's story is also a testament to the power of collaboration. He speaks fondly of his partnerships with other artists, including Young Jock and Ace Hood, as well as an unreleased project with Scott Storch. These collaborations not only expanded his musical horizons but also reinforced the idea that working together can lead to greater success. "All boats rise with rising tides," Geramy notes, underscoring the value of helping others as a pathway to mutual growth.

Beyond his music, Geramy is also passionate about using his platform to give back to the community. He is starting a non-profit focused on music therapy, believing in the power of music to heal and inspire. This initiative is a reflection of his belief in the transformative power of art, both for the creator and the audience.

As Geramy continues to evolve as an artist and entrepreneur, he remains committed to his roots and his community. His upcoming projects, including a major headline show and new music releases, promise to further cement his place in the industry. For anyone looking to pursue their passion, his story is a powerful reminder that with talent, determination, and a clear vision, anything is possible.

Geramy Webster, aka Gee Get Money, embodies the spirit of innovation and perseverance. His journey offers valuable lessons in staying true to oneself, understanding the business landscape, and the power of collaboration. Whether you're an aspiring artist or someone navigating your own career path, there's much to learn from Geramy's experiences and insights.

In a recent episode of the EVOKED Podcast, we had the pleasure of diving deep into the life and aspirations of Anthony Elkareh, a figure whose story transcends the ordinary. 

Anthony's journey is not just about his transition from a potential musical prodigy in Naperville to a model and artist but is a testament to the power of self-belief and embracing one's roots.

Anthony's narrative is imbued with the essence of transformation, driven by an unwavering commitment to his art and an innate ability to envision success beyond the conventional paths. His story is a vivid illustration of how embracing your identity and cultural heritage can be a source of strength, rather than a barrier. 

Growing up in a Lebanese household, Anthony initially struggled with his cultural identity. Yet, this very background became the bedrock of his creative expression, allowing him to blend the rich tapestry of Arabic music with contemporary art forms.

What sets Anthony apart is his philosophy towards creativity and execution. "If you can see it, you can do it," he shares, emphasizing that vision is not merely a daydream but a call to action. Anthony’s approach to life and art is a masterclass in converting visions into reality. 

Whether it was his groundbreaking EP listening party, 'Headspace the Runway,' or his bold leap into modeling, Anthony's career is a series of calculated risks and creative gambles that paid off, showcasing his multifaceted talent and determination.

But Anthony's story is more than just personal success; it's about creating opportunities where none seem to exist. His advice to others is a beacon of hope: "If you don't like the opportunities around you, create your own." 

This mindset, coupled with his resilience in the face of rejection and his commitment to self-improvement (evidenced by his transformative weight loss journey), offers valuable lessons on perseverance, self-love, and the importance of staying true to oneself.

Anthony Elkareh's episode is not just a narrative of personal triumph; it's a call to action for anyone standing at the crossroads of doubt and potential. It reminds us that the path to realizing our dreams begins with the courage to envision them vividly and the determination to pursue them relentlessly.

Meet Daveed Holmes, a visionary cultural photographer turning moments into movements.

Through his lens, Daveed bridges communities in Chicago, celebrating the rich tapestry of Latin, Black, and Afro-Latin cultures.

Join us on the latest episode of #EVOKED as we dive into Daveed's journey, exploring how art can heal and unite The Children of the Diaspora.

Your support can be the seed that grows into a forest of change.

Tune in on Apple or Spotify via #tfocb and let's be part of that change together.

#podcast #ArtHeals #CommunityUnity #DiversityInFocus #CulturalBridge #ChicagoArt #ChangeMakers #EmpowermentThroughArt #VoicesOfDiaspora #UnityInDiversity"

In the latest episode of The EVOKED Podcast,, Kevin Wade shared a compelling narrative that transcends the boundaries of acting and delves into the art of authentic living. Born in Illinois, raised in London, and imbued with a Creole heritage, Wade's story is a tapestry of diverse cultural experiences, shaping not just his identity but also his approach to his craft.

Wade's journey is a testament to the transformative power of self-awareness. He emphasized, "That I am a melting pot of everything. Mostly Creole. 

Creole is a mixture of every mix and pot, French all, just everything." This realization of his multifaceted identity has been a cornerstone in his acting career.

The Identity School of Acting, where Wade honed his skills, ingrained in him a philosophy that extends beyond the stage. "Playing a character is one thing, but bringing yourself to the job is another thing," he reflects. This idea is not just an acting technique; it's a life lesson about embracing and understanding oneself.

Wade's narrative is not devoid of challenges. He discussed the intricacies of navigating emotional landscapes in acting, highlighting the importance of distinguishing one's identity from the characters portrayed. 

His insights reveal a profound understanding of emotional resilience, a skill vital not just on screen, but in the theater of life.

A poignant moment in the podcast was Wade’s reflection on his late father, a sobering reminder of life's impermanence and the power of perspective. His father's life, marked by sobriety achievements and love, left an indelible mark on Wade, fueling his passion and resilience.

Wade's story is a beacon of inspiration, urging us to delve into our heritage, embrace our multifaceted identities, and harness them in our professional and personal lives. 

His journey underscores the importance of self-discovery and authenticity, serving as a reminder that our unique experiences shape not just who we are, but how we engage with the world.

In the latest episode of EVOKED, we delved into the world of Kasual OWNLY, a performing artist and rapper whose journey from the streets of Bronzeville to the beats of hip-hop encapsulates more than just music—it's a tale of authenticity, resilience, and creative evolution.

Kasual OWNLY, a native of the vibrant Bronzeville area, discovered his passion for music through an unexpected avenue—poetry. At nine, he was captivated by the power of spoken word, its authenticity and raw emotion. This early encounter with poetry, although initially challenging, laid the foundation for his artistic expression. "I sucked at poetry, but I'm good at rhyming," Kasual confessed, illuminating the pivotal moment when he penned his first rap at the tender age of 10.

His journey through music wasn't just a pursuit of a passion but a navigation through life's complexities. Kasual's narrative is a vibrant tapestry of experiences—from freestyling at school lunch tables to finding his voice in the Music Lab program. He shared, "Music is always changing, and it's never the same." This philosophy reflects not only in his music but also in his approach to life.

A significant aspect of Kasual's artistry stems from his personal experiences. Relationships, pivotal conversations, and even losses within his family have all found their way into his lyrics. Each song is a fragment of his life, a snapshot of a moment, an emotion, or a memory. His track "A Better Place," for instance, was inspired by the loss of his grandfather—a testament to his ability to channel personal grief into artistic expression.

Kasual's insights extend beyond the confines of music. He emphasizes the importance of self-belief and resilience in the face of skepticism and doubt. His advice to aspiring artists is as real as his lyrics: "Block out the doubters, go ghost on them for a while... It's a healthy habit to have if you're going on this journey."

Moreover, Kasual OWNLY doesn't just create music; he creates a narrative that listeners can relate to and draw inspiration from. His advice on finding the right balance between confidence and humility is particularly striking. He suggests surrounding oneself with people at different levels—those you can learn from, teach, and grow alongside. It's this blend of self-awareness and community that fuels his journey.

Kasual OWNLY's story is more than a chronicle of a rapper's rise; it's a beacon of inspiration for anyone chasing a dream. It's about transforming self-doubt into self-expression, challenges into opportunities, and every note into a narrative. His journey underscores the power of authenticity and the beauty of turning life's cacophony into a symphony of success. As he aptly put it, "You were once where I was before... It took you time." This is a mantra not just for musicians but for anyone with a dream.