Posted by Dendy Media Team on July 7, 2021
By Dendy Media
Today we’d like to introduce you to Erica Crenshaw.
It’s an honour to speak with you today. Why don’t you give us some details about you and your story? How did you get to where you are today?
My name is Erica Crenshaw, I use my Artist name “Diar’e “ for streaming. I am a singer/songwriter/producer from Birmingham, Alabama and have been doing music my whole life. My artist name “Diar’e “ represents my songwriting skills and really look as music being my therapy. I use life experiences in my songs which is how the name “Diar’e” was born. Being an independent artist, all of my work is self funded and consider myself as an Entrepreneur. While there have been some ups and downs, through my faith lenses, prayers and perspective– I call these challenges “testimonies.”
I’m sure your success has not come easily. What challenges have you had to overcome along the way?
Fortunately, I still had to be employed, while working and pushing my music. Would like to consider myself a hard worker, team player, but God had other plans for my life. I worked for a Multi Billion construction company that was a big passion of mine. Once the completion of a project, there was a huge layoff which I was part of its transition. I call it transition due to that same month, my mother’s health was declining. She was no longer to live alone and made the major decision of moving her in with me. At the moment, I am simultaneously pushing my music, single mother to a lively 4-year-old and now a 24/7 caregiver to my mother. Not struggle, but not comfortable either!
Let’s talk about the work you do. What do you specialize in and why should someone work with you over the competition?
Recently, I got introduced to a live streaming app called Uplive which allowed me to freely build my music audience while earning supplemental income. It was a blessing in disguise as it gave me an opportunity to let my hair down and do everything in the comfort of my home, building my own schedule. On my live stream shows, I focus on music and entertainment and deliver high energy content. My biggest success on Uplive was winning Fashion Week and actually having my picture displayed right in the middle of New York City on Time Square! Through this, I have gained over 10,000 followers that are not only following me, but my music! Everything I am doing and building comes from deep authenticity.
What’s your best piece of advice for readers who desire to find success in their life?
Be engaging and in constant high spirits no matter the circumstance! If given, give back and always build relationships! It is important to keep pushing and striving for more. If anyone reading this is considering a live streaming career, I recommend starting on Uplive and following my channel to learn how to be engaging and entertaining. By being genuine, the right kind of people will be attracted to you always.
Speaking of success, what does the word mean to you?
Success to me means having the ability to inspire people to be better versions of themselves. Through my live streams, I put on a great show with a lot of positive appeal to my audience. If anyone can leave my channel feeling even a bit more motivated, then I have done a great day of work. I like to break the “shy” out of their shells and really own their personal story.
What’s next for you?
Next in store for me as an entertainer in the era of Covid is throwing virtual shows for other musicians, artists and entertainers to have a voice in the world. You’ll start to see more talent and showcases on my channel on Uplive, and looking to find more creatives to participate.
Finally, how can people connect with you if they want to learn more?
When people download the app Uplive, they can easily find my channel on search bar “yj0098am,” and get ready to have a great time!