Davion Cervantes, a talented artist hailing from the vibrant streets of South Central Los Angeles, has a story that encapsulates the dualities of life and how they have influenced his music and outlook. Growing up in an area known for its challenges, while attending school in the serene suburbs, he found himself living between two worlds. This unique perspective has shaped his artistic journey and his profound appreciation for the power of music and community.
The upbringing between the harsh realities of South Central and the comfort of the suburban lifestyle he experienced at school was daily. In South Central, life often meant navigating tough circumstances, and individuals had to fend for themselves to make their way. However, in the suburbs, life was less fraught with stress, and opportunities seemed more accessible. This constant transition between contrasting environments taught Davion to shift his mindset, and he regards this ability as a valuable skill.
The challenges of living in two disparate worlds enabled him to view life from multiple angles. In South Central, self-reliance was the norm, while the suburbs exposed him to ambition and potential. This unique perspective laid the foundation for his music and his deep connection to diverse experiences.
Davion’s earliest and fondest memories revolve around the soulful tunes played by his father at home. These tracks created the soundtrack to family gatherings and celebrations, and he vividly recalls how music could influence people’s movements and emotions. Although he didn’t come from a musical family or possess industry connections, his early exposure to the profound impact of music shaped his artistic inclinations.
Photo Credited to: Miezeer Images
The influence of friends from the Los Angeles area further deepened his connection to the music world. As a kid, his neighbor was married to the rapper Bone Crusher, which opened doors to the entertainment and music industry. Regular road trips with these neighbors provided him with firsthand experiences of the behind-the-scenes atmosphere of the music world.
His artistic journey truly began around the age of 18 when he began to write and record music. His initial foray into creative expression was through poetry, and he was heavily involved in the poetry slam scene in the Melrose neighborhood. These early experiences allowed him to experiment with words and develop a network of like-minded individuals who shared his passion for artistic self-expression.
As he transitioned from poetry to music, the connections he made during his poetry phase proved to be invaluable. His network of artists and poets became a powerful support system, opening doors and fueling his burgeoning career. His journey took off, and he began performing at small shows and open mic nights, creating a snowball effect that attracted people eager to contribute to his success.
Davion has already left an indelible mark in the music industry with several notable projects. One of his favorites is his 2012 mixtape, “Self Explanatory 2: Proper Fortitude.” In this project, he delves deep into his life experiences, using music as a medium to express the intricacies of his journey.
Photo Credited tp Miezeer Images
As the years passed, Davion continued to create and evolve his style. Another beloved project is his EP, “No Hard Feelings,” produced in collaboration with the company Nana Lifestyle. This endeavor marked a significant step forward in terms of production quality, featuring red cameras and visually stunning shoots. It exemplified a newfound level of sophistication and elegance in his work, showcasing the evolution of his artistry throughout his adult years.
Davion offers valuable advice to aspiring artists. He encourages them to stay driven and unafraid to step out of their comfort zones. He warns against romanticizing the music industry, emphasizing that it requires hard work and dedication. His guidance is to remain multifaceted, explore all available options, and not limit oneself to a single path.
His impressive collaborations with artists like Dizzy Wright, Shad Robinson, Kendrick Lamar, Schoolboy Q, Jordan Osborne, and Jeffrey Osborne Jr., the owner of Soul Driven Frequencies Label, showcase his versatility and connect him to the broader music scene. Currently working with Yung Jiggy, Lola Young, and Monet Anais, and with saxophonist Terrace Martin’s collaboration on his EP “No Hard Feelings,” Davion’s journey continues to be enriched by a multitude of inspirations.
For Davion Cervantes, inspiration is all around him, and he describes himself as a sponge, absorbing the nuances of life and music. His ability to straddle the line between two worlds, his genuine love for music, and his unwavering dedication to his craft have established him as an artist who continues to captivate and inspire others on their own journeys.
Follow Davion CervantesÂ
IG: @bonteslegacyÂ
