Today we’d like to introduce you to Lanier McKinney.
Lanier, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I was born and raised in Huntsville, Alabama. I come from a very talented family ranging from sports, dancers, musicians, and recording artists to name a few. As a child I was very curious and fearless about many things, but one thing that I always wanted to do all through middle and high school was to be apart of a marching band. I started off playing snare drum then graduated to playing bass, tenor, symbols and quads. After I graduated from high school I had to figure out what I was going to do with my life other than attending college. My best friend who is in the fashion industry influenced me to pursue a career in modeling for which I had a desire for fashion anyway. After a year of research and getting my portfolio together, I traveled back and forth to Atlanta, Georgia where I was able to book several fashion shows with many designers around the city.
I eventually moved to Atlanta and within a four month period I booked my first role in the Hunger Games movie as a “Peace Keeper”. After doing three movies with the franchise I wanted to dance since dancing has always been a passion of mine ever since I was very young. Therefore, the following year I became a work-study at Gotta Dance Atlanta “GDA”. From there I trained in every style of dance that was available from hip hop, jazz, ballet, contemporary, house, vogue, crank, and so many other styles. I trained with some of the best instructors who pushed me to be the best that I could be and expected nothing less. This is how I became the dancer I am today. I dedicated myself to taking 5 to 7 classes a day 7 days a week, not including rehearsals for showcases and gigs that came along the way.
I wanted to further my dance career so I relocated to Los Angeles, California. Shorty after moving I signed with Clear Talent Group and the rest is history. I’ve been blessed to work on productions ranging from world tours, residences, hair brand products, movies, commercials, musicals, artist development, choreography, casting director, lead and principal roles as a dancer/ actor.
Has it been a smooth road?
The road was not an easy one, especially when you have those hidden forces fighting against you! The number one that used to frustrate me was seeing an individual book a job just based on a look and not having the skills to back it up. Another challenge of mine was cutting my hair for roles when it’s for one a part of me and my brand. This still applies to me today. Because I see a lot of times, African Americans in particular always have to change or alter what makes us who we can as a culture. And the problem arises when we get typecasted for one or two roles because of it.
I was never the type to kiss anyone’s ass to get a job, to be recognized, or any of that nonsense. I completely relied on my talent and being genuine with my approach. Most of the time, the mass majority didn’t see it for me. With that being said, I really really appreciate those who took the time to teach me. I felt deprived of many things at the beginning of my career, witch. I hated how things were being run in the community; it was all about me, me, me, and very cliquish. I’m all about sharing what I know to help others, not just my favorites. At one point, I quit the industry because it wasn’t feeding me as I thought, or shall I say my expectations were and are very high.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with LM3 (Lanier Mckinney Entertainment) – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
LM3 is about uplifting and creating structure for success. I have an artist development/master class section where I take time to develop the true artist from within teaching what I call “The Art of Seduction”. Confidence is key in everything you do. I want to teach people how to be comfortable with being sexy and expressing freely with no judgment of self. It’s about the body language, eye contact, intentions, and getting your point across without feeling like you have to do everything that comes to mind in one moment. Sit in that pocket of the music and let people into your world!
The motivational speaking aspect of my company is about creating a real intimate connection. Having open dialogue about how to maintain a healthy lifestyle in the midst of it all. You have to be physically, mentally, and spiritually equipped. Im here to bridge the gap and share my experiences on how I made my dreams become a reality. Having a great mentor is very important because it can be very dangerous if you don’t have a strong since of self. Educating yourself is the most important part because it sets you up for having a successful career, that’s only if you want longevity out of it. In conclusion you are more than just a dancer if you want to be!
My company is about bringing the star quality out in each individual I come across. I have an artist development/master class section. Where I take the time to develop the true artist from within teaching what I call for “The Art of Seduction.” Confidence is key in anything you do. I want to teach people how to be comfortable with being sexy and expressing. It’s about the body language, eye contact, intentions, and getting your point across without feeling like you have to do everything that comes to mind in one moment. Sit in that pocket of the music and let people into your world!
It’s all in the subtleties. I incorporate across the floor freestyles and warmups focusing on arms, legs, and core while I speak power into the student body, making them aware of their “GOD POWER.” I want to teach dancers to own who they are and really think on their feet and be ready to adjust at any moment. Because when you get into the professional realm, things change right before you go on stage! For those that know me knows that I love to dance sexy, and I love exploring my masculine and feminine side in my freestyles. I grew up doing grooves, hip rolling, twerking, you name it I did it.
Now when it comes to the motivational speaking aspect of my company, it’s really about creating a real connection. Having an open dialogue about what’s not talked about in the industry. How to maintain a healthy lifestyle in the midst of it all. You have to be physical, mentally, and spirituals equipped. I’m here to bridge the gap for those who feel it’s not possible and share my experiences in the most honest way possible. How I made my dreams become a reality. Having a mentor is very important because it can be very dangerous if you don’t have a strong sense of self. Educating yourself is the most important thing because it sets you up for having a successful career. That’s only if you want longevity out of it. You are more than just a dancer if you want to be.
The Passion, The Love, and The Courage to go beyond your limits is what I’m here to encourage.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and the least?
What I love about Atlanta that it’s a thriving black city and it’s full of raw talent.
What I don’t like is the close-mindedness when it comes to being different and the lack of support.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.LanierMckinney.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laniermckinney/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/laniermckinney/
- Other: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm9959978/
Image Credit:
Nappy Styles
Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition, please let us know here.
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