Broke-Ass Artist of the Week: New York City’s Troy the Feminine Goddess

Brokeassstuart.com proudly presents the Broke-Ass Artists series where we give our readers an insight to the struggle of some up and coming talent in music.

I met Troy while performing at Long Island University’s monthly music showcase last year presented by I.T.I.S Entertainment. The musically mesmerizing songstress was so impressive that we asked her to perform at our first ever Young, Broke & Beautiful Party in October. Her music can only be described as beautiful simplicity, much like her interview.

Check out Troy’s youtube channel here.

Brokeassstuart.com: Are you a broke-ass artist?
Troy: Only in the financial sense.

Brokeassstuart.com: Can you recall a time when you were really, really broke and really wanted to pursue your passion? How did you make it happen?
Troy: That time is now. I left my job spring of 2013 to go back to school for audio engineering. I was at the cap for the federal student loan borrowing amount. I hesitated before making the decision to accumulate more debt, but ultimately went through it because I was utterly miserable with just being a “worker”. My life had no spark, no passion. I was sinking and felt as if I needed to pursue my music.

Brokeassstuart.com: What advice would you give to someone who is afraid to pursue a music career?
Troy: If it’s the only thing that makes your life make sense, sit down, write out a plan and follow through with it. Although your plan will change along the way, doors will open up when you decided to choose yourself!

Brokeassstuart.com: Was there ever a time when a lack of money made you want to stop pursuing your dream?
Absolutely! Just a few days ago, actually. It’s hard especially when you envision things coming together a particular way and then how it’s forming in front of you falls so short. I get discouraged some days.

Brokeassstuart.com: How important is money while you’re promoting a new project?
Troy: It’s imperative when you truly have a vision. You want to go all the way and show up like it’s your birthday! You’re giving people a very microscopic look into your soul-a great aspect of the things that make you, you.

Brokeassstuart.com: Could you tell us about your decision to leave New York for South Florida and what role money played in the decision?
Troy: I went to visit Florida earlier in the summer for my friend’s birthday. I didn’t do much other than lay out on the beach roasting, sleeping and writing-lots of writing! I had so much to express. I decided to entertain the idea of moving to Florida for nothing more than peace-of-mind. When I came back to NY, I sat and discussed the idea with my girlfriend and former manager. I decided I should give myself until at least next summer to save, and organize and all that other stuff we think we’re supposed to do as adults. Then suddenly it hit me, I’m changing, becoming more at peace with myself and striving for a life outside of myself (environmentally) that would reflect who I was becoming inside. My music comes from reflecting inward. I had to let that be my stepping stone for my new project and ultimately this new chapter in my life. You can never go wrong when you choose your peace-when you choose your truth.