Today we’d like to introduce you to Carley Nunn Davis.
Hi Carley, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
I like to say I came out the womb entertaining! I say that because there was never a definitive moment in my life where I thought, “Wow, this is what I want to do!”.. it was always who I was and what I did. If I’m going to cover my story, I have to start with my roots, my foundation…
I grew up in Katy, TX, in a loving and incredibly supportive family where music filled our home. My mom, Dena and Dad, Greg, always encouraged my sister, Shelby and I to pursue the dreams God placed in our hearts. They didn’t just say it either, they supported with their actions. Driving back and forth for miles to different rehearsals, encouraging me to audition for things, paying for lessons… my story wouldn’t be what it is without them and their steadfast encouragement and support… Thank you, Mom and Dad; I love you.
Simply put, I love to entertain. I began dancing at the age of 3, performed in countless musical theatre shows for 10+ years throughout my childhood, sang in the church choir, did improv comedy on a team in high school… but always came back to music. I vividly remember as a young girl playing Christina Aguilera’s debut album on repeat, trying to copy every single run and learn to sing like her. Music has always had a hold on me. That love led to me having some big dreams. Dreams like being able to do it for a living. I went to Baylor University as a musical theatre major and dropped out after my freshman year to move here to Los Angeles and pursue the dream. I experienced so much in those first couple years, as many do. In and out of so many “situations”… so many highs and so many lows. It knocked my confidence, made me question myself and my abilities.. I can now confidently say I’m so grateful for it all.
I guess I should also mention throughout all of this I was dating my now husband and battling long distance for 8 years. A fellow big dreamer, he was pursing his dream of being a professional baseball player and did just that playing the last 7 years in the Chicago Cubs organization. So let’s recap.. dropped out of college, moved to LA, trying to make my way in this crazy town and industry, all while trying to keep a long-distance relationship afloat… LAWWDD have mercy.
I ended up meeting my producer Billy Wonka a few years ago at a mutual friend’s birthday party and the rest is history. After years of heartbreak and letdown, I finally felt like I had something I could really build on. So we did just that. We began building together and carving out my sonic lane. At this point, I have 17 songs out independently under my artist name, “CARLEY,” and am using social media to find, grow, and pour into my audience. It’s been a long journey, but somehow it still feels like the beginning, and I can’t wait for all that’s to come.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Oof, not at all, and I’m so glad it wasn’t. Like I said, every difficult part of my journey so far has only helped develop me into the person I am today. Every “failed” situation taught me what red flags to look for in the next opportunity, every disappointment helped me strengthen the belief in myself and my mindset, 8 years of long distance helped us develop incredible communication skills and taught us how to prioritize our relationship even when it felt impossible to. Every single bump in the road forced me to lean more into my faith and truly learn to keep my eyes on God. Trusting that what He says is true! He’s got a perfect plan for each of us, and no matter what we go through, He works it all for our good.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m an independent artist and content creator. My passion is to inspire, encourage, and entertain. My mission is to be a light. Life can be full of heartache, heaviness, and hard times. If I can lift others up by being a light through my music, my words, or even my presence, that’s what I will do., I believe each of us have unique gifts and were created to use them. Too many people settle or give up on their dreams and that’s something I’m super passionately against. I want to encourage others to go for their dreams with all their heart and soul.
I’m most proud of my determination. I’m proud that I’m still pursuing my childhood dream. I’m proud that no matter what I’ve endured, I’m still here. Quitting isn’t an option.
What does success mean to you?
Success to me is fulfillment. It’s not about the accomplishments or some destination. It’s about that feeling when your head hits the pillow at the end of a long day… Are you peaceful? Are you doing something you love? Are you using the gifts and talents you have to make the world better? That’s what it’s all about. There’s a Japanese concept, “Ikigai,” that I feel sums it up perfectly. It’s the intersection of what you love, what you’re good at, what you can be paid for, and what the world needs. If you can figure out what that is for you, then do it. That’s success, that’s the dream.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://carleynunndavis.myshopify.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carleynunndavis/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carleynunndavis
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbCt8GhhFj-_ad1Jg3-U9Sg
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3sZwroILm5VuXRvxJM2h4U?si=m1EMF2RVTa-EcU5gqsd1ng
Image Credits
Anthony Ray Photography
