We’re looking forward to introducing you to Durant Searcy. Check out our conversation below.
Durant, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
Yes! Actually, a few recent moments have made me laugh, cry and feel proud. I had the opportunity to collaborate with a brand called SKNMUSE, which has since closed, but we experienced some success together. At one point, several of their items even sold out, which was really exciting.
I’ve also gained strong support on my YouTube channel, which has been encouraging because it’s something I’ve built from the ground up. And I recently started a podcast called ScentDowns with Searcy, where I have live conversations with other fragrance creators. It’s been a fun and fulfilling project that continues to grow.
Altogether, these experiences make me proud because they reflect creativity, consistency, and connection with others, which are all things I value in both my personal and professional life. I laugh and cry because sometimes I am in shock at how great my support system has been this year.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am a caregiver that also works a full-time job by day and a creative by heart. My journey has always been about balancing compassion and creativity. My mom was diagnosed with Vascular Dementia a few years ago, and my life has been centered around her well-being ever since. Caregiving keeps me grounded and reminds me of the importance of connection, while my artistic work gives me space to express and inspire.
Last year, I released my most recent EP, Lewille, which explored themes of love, reflection, and self-discovery. All songs written and co-produced by myself. Right now, I’m working on a live performance video that brings that music to life in a more intimate, visual way.
I also run a YouTube channel where I share my love for fragrances, create conversations that mix scent, identity, and self-expression. It’s become a beautiful community, and I recently expanded it into a podcast called ScentDowns with Searcy, where I sit down with other creators to talk scent, artistry, and inspiration.
What makes my work unique is that it all comes from a place of real life, caring for others, chasing creativity, and finding beauty in everyday experiences. Everything I do, whether it’s music, fragrance, or storytelling is about connection and authenticity.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
I battled with my sexuality all of my life. Church, family, and school made me feel like I didn’t deserve to exist because I “looked and acted” gay. I believed it. I am more comfortable in my skin at 44 than I’ve ever been. I believe I deserve to be here as a proud black gay man. My goal is never to make anyone uncomfortable, but I would never sit in a corner quiet while hoping I am invisible to everyone in every room…again.
When you were sad or scared as a child, what helped?
As a child, I witnessed men beating on women. I wrote and co-produced a song about it called “The First Time”. The moments haunt me to this day. As a child, I turned to music. Mariah Carey’s music was a saving grace. Her music has gotten me through so many events and moments in my life. My love for her is unwavering because of songs like “Outside”, “Anytime You Need a Friend”, “Can’t Take That Away”, “Make it Happen” and many others saved my sanity.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Is the public version of you the real you?
I don’t walk around energetic twenty four hours a day. I’m more reflective when I’m not on camera. I actually don’t like being on camera. I see doing my YouTube as the stage where I give my people the best of my personality. It is the real me when I’m with people I’m most comfortable with, which are my supporters.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
I would TRY to stop overthinking everything. I steal my own joy by overthinking everything even the way I walk. After every live on YouTube, I’ll call a friend and ask, “was I boring?” because my mind is always overthinking. Overthinking and worrying are two things I would like to stop doing immediately, whether I have 10 years, less or more.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/durantsearcy
- Instagram: @durant.searcy
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Fx7PAo362/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Youtube: https://YouTube.com/durantsearcy
- Other: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/durant-searcy/97176379
Image Credits
Durant Searcy
