Today we’d like to introduce you to Odion J Mowoe.
Odion, before we jump into specific questions about your music, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I feel like I had a very special upbringing. I am a native of DeSoto, TX which is the “New Black Wallstreet”. DeSoto High School has one of the best band programs in the nation and I am forever grateful to have matriculated through the program. Not only did I grow up around black excellence but I also grew up very in tune with the rich cultures of both of my parents. My father grew up in Nigeria and my mother is a first-generation American. My Dad made sure I knew about my Nigerian heritage while my Mom made sure I understood the beauty of the island of the Bahamas. My parents made sure to instill strong morals and values that will last a lifetime. Although my company idea didn’t come to me until I went off to college, everything I learned growing up prepared to be the business owner I am today. My first exposure to music was from attending Destiny Point Christian Center my entire life. The church always put on extravagant musicals for the holidays and I have observed and participated. The music department at church taught me many things about how to perform and approach music. By the time I was in high school, I already had a strong musical background. Not only was I a musician but I was very involved in leadership inside and outside of the band room.
My first three years of college were spent at the Univ. of Arkansas- Monticello, where I was in the Jazz Band, Symphonic Band, Marching Band, and University Choir. This institution set up a strong foundation for my professional life. I was able to provide community service with the organization, Kappa Kappa Psi National Honorary Band Fraternity. Not only was I performing in different ensembles, but I also got to experience gigging. I spent many days working within the Fine Arts Center, where the fine arts center director taught me the administrative viewpoint of running a FAC. Although I had been composing and arranging music since middle school, The Marching Band was the first ensemble ever to debut my music. The Staff and students supported me wholeheartedly. After much success, I decided to start selling my compositions and arrangements. Meaux Muzik had officially blossomed.
After my junior year of college, I went through a self-discovery journey and became interested in attending a Historical Black College or University. My research led me to join the Southern University often imitated but never duplicated the Human Jukebox marching band. Living in Louisiana and experiencing the culture helped me as a writer immensely. I automatically had a network of other writes and how to write music in different styles. Everything I learned at Southern University helped me develop a more intense mindset when it comes to operating in the music world. During my summers, I was able to go back to my hometown and volunteer with the Dallas Mass Band. I was not only able to teach different musicians but also get used to hearing my written music played by an ensemble on a consistent basis.
After graduating from Southern University, I accepted a position as a graduate student with the Alcorn State University Fine Arts Department. During grad school, my advisor made sure I learned the administrative viewpoint of working with a collegiate department. During this time, I was able to work on my craft and push out the most music I ever had. My company was flourishing. I was constantly learning how to a versatile music writer. During graduate school, I embarked on my first year of teaching and learned how to write for small ensembles. Currently, I am living back in Texas and able to give back to the community that helped develop my young mind. All of these experiences helped create who I am today as a writer, business owner and musician.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Of course not. A true patron of the arts understands that every good piece of music has some form of tension. As an African American Male, the pressure of society does not lead you to be a writer or musician. I went against the grain and decided to pursue my dreams regardless of adversity. Although most people viewed the movie “Drumline” as entertainment, The movie motivated me to pursue a life as a musician. Growing up, I have always been a gentle giant. I have experienced a lot of support over the years, but there are always two sides to every story. Just as much love and support I have received, I’ve also had peers or superiors try to suppress my growth. I have been counted out before because of my size but I stayed true to myself and always came out on top. I won’t go into much detail but I do believe in the reciprocation of energy and karma. I am naturally nice and have a strong presence which can cause a weak-minded person to feel intimated or jealous. I am very aware of my surroundings so my experiences have taught me always to be one step ahead. With a business, you have a brand to protect and should always do what’s in the best interest of the company, no matter how big or small.
Please tell us about your music.
The name of my business is “Meaux Muzik”. Meaux Muzik is a play on words between “Mo’ Music” and “More Music”. The name also is a reference to my last name, “Mowoe.” Meaux Muzik specializes in Band Compositions and Arrangements. I am known for my approach to music and my jazzy chords and flares. I take a unique approach to my voicing and counter melodies. My background in playing multiple instruments and choir also helps me much as a music writer. I make sure that my music not only sounds good but looks good and neat on paper. I am proud that my company has remained strong over the years and still has a long way to go. I have currently been focusing on my career of being an educator but plan on joining a publishing company a few years from now.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Being humble and a good listener will get you a long way. Success is not about what you can do but how you do it. If you cannot understand where a client is coming from, you have lost the client. The art of music is to be able to connect with others in a way that you normally would not be able to. Follow the golden rule and treat others as you want to be treated. Also, patience is a big factor in life. The Universe will let situations happen when its time to happen.
Contact Info:
- Email: o.mowoe@yahoo.com
Image Credit:
Human Jukebox Media (Baton Rouge, LA)
Avosangel ( Louisville, MS)
DrPriceTv, LLC (Baton Rouge, LA)
Winters Photography (Jackson, Mississippi)
uamont.edu (Monticello, AR)
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