Sellah: Let Me Introduce Myself

More than 80% of my social media following and surprisingly people I have not spoken to in years were supportive [about coming out].

SELLAH is artistic, unapologetic, well-traveled and determined to change the conversation about out gay recording artist. This military brat has a lot to say and it’s worth a listen.

Photo by CUFFAROPHOTO.COM

Where did you grow up?

I never grew up in one place. I was traveling the world because my father is in the Air Force. While living with my parents, I had the privilege of living in Canada, America, Europe, and Asia.

How did you come up with the name SELLAH?

I woke up in a dream after going through months of depression and confusion. I heard a voice whispering the name ‘SELAH.’ I was confused at first and didn’t understand what this all meant. Therefore, I researched the word ‘SELAH’ and discovered that the name had only positive definitions around it…even in different languages. For example: To stop and listen, a break from negativity, weapon, mediation of the mind, body, soul and even more. I knew I had to represent this name somehow. I added the extra “L” to keep it original and to respect any religion or other associations with it. That is where you get, SELLAH.

Who are you as a recording artist and what’s your style of music?

I feel I am very free and open-minded, always willing to try and experiment with new sounds, people, and ideas; as long as it feels right deep down inside. My style of music is constantly changing with how the world is evolving, but at the same time, I am doing my best to keep everything timeless. As of now, I use sounds of R&B, hip-hop, soul, pop with a pinch of island-style vibes. It is now my goal to tap into my West Indian roots that I inherited from my grandfather. I feel being aware of where you came from is very important to everyone’s journey in this life.

Your background is modeling and photography. Did this help you build your style of music and inspiration?

Yes, not only did I have opportunities to model and do photography but also, art direct, manage models, as well as dabbling in some acting for international commercials and national TV shows like ‘The Black Sails‘. I booked a small role in the first season of Black Sails in Episode Six as ‘Lars’. Just being in the fashion and entertainment industries allowed me to find more of who I am, which I feel is an endless process. I also traveled to thirty places by the time I was 18 years of age. This shift in lifestyle from traveling at such a young age caused me to become inspired by the world and I yearned to discover more. Playing college basketball helped as well. I gather most of my inspiration from personal life experiences and travels.

If you could collaborate with three recording artist, who would they be and why?

This is a tough question, but without thinking I would say Pharrell, Diplo, and Jon Bellion. Pharrell and Diplo simply because of their personal track records. They produced some of the best records for the best artists. Not only do they produce, but they also sing, write, direct and are founders of new talent.

I met Diplo once at a party surprisingly and told him about my music. I see him as an ultimate goal, rather than a mere wish.

Jon Bellion because I predict he’ll be at the same levels as Pharrell and Diplo in the near future. He is one of the artists who wrote ‘Monster’ for Rihanna and Eminem. He is extremely talented with a remarkable singing voice and has a dope personal style which he adds to all of his songs production. This dude is just dope! Look him up for sure.

SELLAH

You’ve recently received backlash being open about your sexuality. Do you care to respond?

For sure! It was mentally one of the hardest things to publicly come out, mainly because of how society perceives the ‘gay’ culture. I was never someone who fit into the typical stereotypes like “gay” or “straight”, so being publicly open about my sexuality was never a focus; I still find women attractive. I am simply in love with a man. My personality, soul, how I dress, act and speak have not changed. I just want people to accept that. It is my goal to be an inspirational figure for the countless number of guys out there going through the same mental battles as me. An inspiration for those who strive to be more open-minded, not loving a specific gender, but rather loving someone for their soul and energy.

Once you came out, who was your support system?

My support ranged widely from my boyfriend, his family, my family(two older sisters, my niece, mom/dad and some cousins, etc.). More than 80% of my social media following and surprisingly people I have not spoken to in years were supportive [about coming out]. The general support was amazing especially still from my heterosexual friends. Although, sadly some people still think I am faking this or using this as a tool to get more popular for reasons I cannot explain.

Tell us about your new project you’re about to release?

I collaborated with a close friend from Miami named Furbzz who is a very talented producer and songwriter. I knew at this point in my career I needed to create from scratch and give my inputs during the production process. I know many producers who I can get beats online from, but I knew if I really wanted this project to go how I wanted, I needed to do things more organically and more old fashion. Therefore, I got a bunch of creatives together in one room and made some of my best music to date. I will be releasing my first single before this summer ends. My EP releases sometime in the next few months. Stay tuned!

Tour dates?

No tour dates yet, but there is possibly a special trip in order. Do not want to make announcements yet. If everyone follows my social media, I will let you know on there soon enough.

Do you have a guilty pleasure?
I can eat a lot of Starbursts.

Republican Party, Democratic Party or Cocktail Party?

Haha! I know politics are extremely important, but I’d rather have a cocktail and stress less on what is currently going on in our world. However, regarding the two current candidates, the Democratic Party.

Dream vacation spot?

I love Cape Town but have already been there. I cannot wait to go to Australia.

Favorite Fashion Brand?

I am seriously not really into specific fashion brands. I love finding new talent. As of now, I want to be an artist that represents the best up and coming fashion brands.

What’s your favorite social media platform?

Instagram has helped my career tremendously. It allows you to personally reach out to people, make group chats and even leave direct links to things you want to promote.

Any shout-outs?

I do not want to exclude anyone so just will say shout-outs to the universe for not giving up on me yet and my amazing boyfriend @thetravelinvin on Instagram.

SELLAH