Today we’d like to introduce you to Austin Crute
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I was born and raised in Atlanta, GA. As a pastor’s kid, I was surrounded by music and theology, and developed a passion for both things. I was also queer, but kept that bit to myself until college. I did drama in grade school and made lots of music in my developmental years, hosting sessions out of my bedroom in Atlanta. I was about 15 when I was flown out to be in a music reality show called Majors and Minors. That was my first introduction to LA. College time came and I went to NYU. Since then, I’ve been in movies and tv shows, such as Booksmart, ATLANTA, and They/Them. I also recently headlined the Viper Room, my inaugural show in LA as an artist. My buzz continues to grow and I’m so grateful.
Alright, 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?
The road has only been made smooth by the sacrifices lain in the cracks by my family. Firstly, being gay in the south was not a picnic. I never ever acted on it and still only know 2 people that are out from my community. I’m going to my high school reunion soon— I’m the only queer person. It was extremely traumatizing carrying the weight of that secret my entire academic career. I was the pastor’s son at my church and rumors spread like wildfire concerning whether I was gay or not. Meanwhile, I’m like 12 years old. I just wanted to listen to Hannah Montana and play video games. I consistently felt like there was a target on my back or like I could never just hide out and go under the radar. So I embraced the spotlight and leaned into my star power. They’ll talk anyway, so give them something to talk about. Being black in the south is also a struggle. Being consistently gaslit by the white people you love the most about racial issues was an obstacle. But it taught me how to navigate white spaces in a way that I’m eternally grateful for. Our family, while branded well, was far from perfect. My father’s repeated infidelity broke our home. But my mother, my aunt, and my grandmother, amongst others, have always stuck by me, financially supported my development, and fed my spirit with scripture and wisdom. Even coming into Hollywood and being seen as some kind of queer ambassador when I’d only come out to my family the year prior (2017) was crazy. I still don’t see myself in that light and have never been in a relationship with a man. I like to feel sexy but I’m not very promiscuous. It gets lonely out here. And this business is not a financially stable one. I’m just focusing on my goals. The more me and my audience gets to know each other, I’m sure more of my stories will surface. But I can’t complain overall. I’m making it happen.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a performing artist, singer/songwriter/producer, audio engineer, and actor. I make Pop / RnB music and slide in and out of every genre in a way that’s evident I belong to all branches of music. My ear for melody and harmony is impeccable. I think I get that from my father. I’m most proud of my on stage charisma. And what sets me apart is my ability to be a sonic chameleon and still keep that sultry Austin Crute-ness about me. I’m very distinct. When you hear me, you know it’s me.
What does success mean to you?
Keeping to a self-set and self-maintained standard of excellence. Achieving goals that lead to the execution of an overall vision. Broadening your reach to communicate your message to as many people as possible.
Pricing:
- I’m Selling my Coveted Vocal Preset – $100
- An AUSTIN CRUTE Performance – $250 for 30 min, $500 for an hour
- Beats – $250 (No packs. I make them custom. Contact Me.)
- An AUSTIN CRUTE Feature / Verse – $250
Contact Info:
- Website: https://austincrute.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austincrute?igsh=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/AustinCrute
- Twitter: https://x.com/AustinCrute
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@AustinCrute
- Soundcloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/PHpeVS45GoXXQWsw8
Image Credits
Kathlyn Almeida
Leon Bennett
