Today we’d like to introduce you to Mansa Wakili.
Hi Mansa, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
My story as an artist has many twists and turns and is still being written as we speak. I’m a Grammy-nominated music maker. I started off a rapper/producer born and raised in Kansas City, MO…I’m mostly known as Chief Wakil (or just Wakil). I moved to LA and added songwriting and composing to my bag and was able to be in the studio and work with many big names, networks, brands etc. Brandy, Frank Ocean, Jaden Smith, Lebron James, Disney, Nickelodeon, Fox’s Empire, STARZ’s Power, DWTS, Lego Batman, etc. Then, some years after, I became an actor as well. I’ve just always been an artistic person and blessed to be able to express myself for a living professionally and on my terms.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I’d say no and yes. No, in the sense of, there were a lot of things that I avoided, but I still have been thru a lot of BS in this town. But to elaborate, I’ve definitely had my share of “welcome to the industry” moments that would send some people packing. I had a lot to learn being a kid from the Midwest lol. But I don’t easily quit and am never rushed; therefore, I don’t stop. I keep moving forward and control what I can control as best as I can for real. It’s a journey, so it ain’t always gonna be smooth anyway, and I’m ok with that.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As I mentioned before, I wear many hats musically. I’m an independent music artist under my own company, WiNK Village. Not only do I just release music, but my company specializes in sync music, music for brands, TV & film placements, commercials, voiceover work, etc. I’m always doing something interesting and fun. I’m proud to have made an impact on other people and fans of mine as an artist. To have my own company and work for myself. To have a family and still do what I do and show my kiddos how to dream… It’s great. What I feel sets me apart is I’m not afraid to be human in this industry. I have ups and downs. I doubt myself, second guess, procrastinate sometimes…the whole 9. But as I said before…I don’t stop, and I keep moving forward. Sometimes, I gotta run some tapes back and remind myself that I’m Him. lol
How do you define success?
I feel if you’re at a place of peace I feel like you’ve found success. The great thing about that is you can always improve and reach greater heights. The other stuff… the material stuff is just icing.
Contact Info:
- Website: Winkvillage.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/chiefwakil
- Other: Instagram.com/winkvillage
Image Credits
Juanita Lai
Alex Cole
