Today we’d like to introduce you to Will Pharaoh.
Hi Will, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Growing up in Port Arthur, Texas, the world seemed both vast and intimate through the lens of my childhood home. The rich, soulful rhythms of UGK’s Pimp C, the boundary-pushing artistry of Kanye West, and the gritty, spirited tales from Houston’s finest rappers resonated in the air, shaping my dreams and ambitions. I am Will Pharaoh, a blend of these influences, a mold-breaker in the digital realm known as “The Anomaly.” My journey is not just mine but a story woven from the community, culture, and unyielding spirit of those who came before me.
I remember the days and nights, the relentless Texas heat serving as the backdrop for my early adventures in creativity. It was here, amidst the hum of Port Arthur, that my vision as a storyteller and musician took root. The streets that raised me were alive with tales of struggle and triumph, each word and beat from local legends fueling my desire to create something unforgettable.
The drive to redefine entertainment led me to Sacramento, California. I dove into the vibrant cultural scene, absorbing every nuance and using it to further refine my craft. But the call of All Def content was irresistible, prompting me to embark on grueling 6-hour drives back and forth. No matter the exhaustion, the thought of missing school the next morning never deterred me. Each mile was a testament to my dedication, each return a pilgrimage to the altar of my dreams.
In the crucible of creation, I gave life to shows like “The Hotbox Challenge,” “Straight Outta a Comic Book,” and “The Blasphemy Series.” With our 25 series under my belt, each project was an amalgam of inspiration and aspiration, pushing the envelope and capturing hearts. My title, “The Anomaly,” became a promise, a commitment to continually innovate and predict the trends that would captivate future generations.
My work as a Creative Art Director at Culture Genesis allowed me to remix digital technology for urban multicultural audiences, creating platforms like All Def Gaming and Arcade Tokens. It was here, among fellow visionaries, that my skills in graphic design and brand identity flourished, leading me to work with icons like Snoop Dogg, T.I., and companies such as Atlantic Records, Reebok, and Hulu. Each collaboration, each project, was a stone laid on the path to changing the digital landscape.
As a musician, the echoes of my Texan roots and the diverse influences of my journey melded into a unique sound. My debut album, “Blueberries and Lemonade,” was just the beginning. Now, I am gearing up to release “Eighties Helluva Night,” a testament to my growth and the unyielding push to innovate musically.
Even as my following, “The Legion,” grew to over 200,000, I remained committed to connecting with each member. During the pandemic, as the world grappled with isolation and uncertainty, I found new ways to entertain, comfort, and inspire. My content wasn’t just an escape; it was a beacon of hope, a reminder of the resilience and connectivity of the human spirit.
Now, I stand on the precipice of new ventures, eyes set on the horizon of movies, television series, books, and digital products. Memnon LLC, my latest endeavor, is not just a company but a vessel for revolutionary ideas and transformative storytelling. Here, I will continue to challenge norms, break barriers, and shape the future of entertainment.
From the streets of Port Arthur to the digital expanse, my journey is a testament to the power of vision, tenacity, and the unshakable belief in one’s own story. I am Will Pharaoh, the Trill Blooded Prince and the architect of dreams. My story is far from over; it’s just beginning to unfold.
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?
My path has not been paved with ease; it’s been a journey of relentless challenges and profound struggles that have shaped the very core of who I am. There were nights when the sky seemed endless and the cold bench in the park that I slept on was my only refuge..
Losing loved ones tore gaping holes in my world, each loss a reminder of the fragility of life and the harshness of a world that seemed indifferent to dreams and aspirations. Yet, it was in the depths of these sorrows that my determination found its deepest roots, pushing me to continue against all odds.
The decision to leave everything familiar was not taken lightly. Over a thousand miles lay between the life I knew and the unknown that beckoned. My companion on this journey was an aunt whose bipolar tendencies made our relationship a turbulent sea of unpredictability. Yet, these moments of uncertainty and discomfort were the crucibles from which my resilience was forged.
Arriving in the land of dreams, Hollywood, I quickly learned that it was a world rife with its own politics and power plays. Navigating this landscape while trying to maintain my vision was like walking a tightrope. Every step was a negotiation between adapting and standing firm, between learning the rules of the game and rewriting them. My ideas, often fresh and unconventional, weren’t always welcomed; they were seen as threats and challenges to the status quo that others were reluctant to accept.
The struggle wasn’t just external. It was an internal battle to stay true to my vision to not lose sight of who I am and what I wanted to achieve. The industry tried to mold me, to fit me into boxes of their making, but I resisted. I knew that my uniqueness, my difference, was my strength, even if it meant walking the path less traveled, even if it meant facing rejection and misunderstanding.
Through it all, my vision has remained unclouded. The challenges I’ve faced the struggles I’ve endured have all been stepping stones, lessons that have taught me perseverance, empathy, and the true meaning of strength. They’ve instilled in me a deeper understanding of my craft and a firmer resolve to make an impact to tell stories that resonate and inspire.
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?
As a content creator, I am known for producing captivating digital shows such as “The Hotbox Challenge,” “Pharaoh’s Vault,” and “The Blasphemy Series.” These projects showcase my ability to weave together diverse elements, incorporating humor, cultural commentary, and innovative concepts that keep audiences coming back for more. My work as Creative Art Director at Culture Genesis further emphasizes my commitment to revolutionizing digital entertainment, creating platforms that celebrate and elevate the urban experience.
In the realm of music, I draw from my deep roots in Port Arthur, Texas, and the influences of icons like Pimp C, Kanye West, and Houston’s finest rappers. My albums, including “Blueberries and Lemonade” and the upcoming “Eighties Helluva Night,” are testaments to my versatility and commitment to pushing the boundaries of musical expression.
What sets me apart is my multifaceted approach to creativity and my relentless drive. I’m not content to follow trends; I aim to set them. My dedication is evident in every aspect of my work, from driving hours to participate in All Def content to pushing through personal hardships and industry politics to maintain my unique vision.
I am most proud of my resilience and the community I’ve built. Being homeless, facing personal losses, and navigating the challenges of Hollywood have only strengthened my resolve. I’ve cultivated a following known as “The Legion,” a group of over 200,000 individuals who resonate with my journey and support my endeavors. Their engagement and feedback are constant sources of motivation and affirmation.
What truly sets me apart is my ability to remain genuine in an industry often characterized by superficiality. My work is a reflection of my life, my struggles, and my triumphs. I strive to provide more than just entertainment; I aim to inspire, to instigate change, and to create content that uplifts and resonates on a deeper level. As I continue to expand my horizons into movies, television series, books, and digital products, my commitment to authenticity and innovation remains unwavering.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up, I was the kid whose eyes sparkled with a sense of adventure and a unique perspective on the world around me. I was never content with just seeing things; I had to understand them and often, reshape them in my own imaginative way. My personality was a blend of curiosity, resilience, and a quiet determination that set me apart from my peers.
Adapting to my environment was second nature to me, a skill that led me to balance two worlds seamlessly. On one hand, I was deeply immersed in the arts, participating in theater and expressing myself through performance. The stage was a sanctuary where I could unleash my creativity and transform into any character, any persona I wished to explore.
On the other hand, I was equally passionate about sports. Football and Baseball were not just games to me; they were disciplines that taught me about teamwork, perseverance, and the thrill of competition. I learned to push my limits, to strategize and collaborate, lessons that would later prove invaluable in my professional journey.
Perhaps one of the most defining moments as a young man was stepping into the ring as a sports entertainment wrestler. The raw energy, the theatrics, the physical and mental challenge of it all was exhilarating. I fought for the Texas title, embodying the persona of a fighter who wouldn’t back down, a character that wasn’t too far from who I was in reality. And to mark the intensity and duality of my life, this monumental event coincided with my prom night, a stark contrast of worlds that only I could navigate so confidently.
This balance of arts, sports, and an unyielding sense of self was the cornerstone of my youth. I wasn’t just participating in activities; I was exploring different facets of my identity, gathering stories, skills, and insights that would color my world and shape my future endeavors. My interests were varied, but they were all driven by a deep desire to experience life fully, to push boundaries, and to never settle for the ordinary.
In every endeavor, whether on stage, on the field, or in the ring, I carried with me a sense of purpose and a vision that was uniquely my own. My upbringing was a testament to the idea that one could be many things that you didn’t have to be confined to a single identity or passion. This eclectic mix of interests and experiences was not just a phase; it was the foundation upon which I would build a life of creativity, resilience, and relentless pursuit of the extraordinary.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.willpharaoh.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/willpharaoh
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/willpharaohtrill
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willpharaoh/
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/willpharaoh
- Youtube: www.youtube.com/@ArcadeTokens
