A Promoter Finds New Ways to Serve Artists
By StankRadio
From the fast-paced world of entrepreneurial pursuits and wealth accumulation, Michael Murray has moved to a different route. As the visionary behind The Playlixt, a performance arts promotional business that has supported artists in the South Carolina Midlands for six years, Murray has been a fixture in the creative community. But more recently, he shifted his focus to the profound importance of mental health and community building.
"I was all in on black capitalism, but I realized I was neglecting the community aspect of it all," Murray says. Talking to artists at a more personal level, being immersed in their lives, and witnessing their struggles highlighted a need for genuine community and spiritual well-being beyond just financial success.
The Playlixt brought poetry shows, jazz performances, comedy gigs, rap events, and more to the public. But Murray began to feel a growing disconnect between the entrepreneurial pursuits and the communal bond among artists. When he thought about how to solve the problem, he thought about his mother.
Her example showed him that one doesn't need to be an artist to uplift creative individuals. "My mom never understood a single thing I created, but her love enabled me to achieve all these artistic and community milestones," he shares. He learned showing up for others with love and empathy is a powerful catalyst for personal and communal growth.
With that, NU GRWTH Artist Collective was born.
Murray describes NU GRWTH as a "revolutionary multi-medium playground where artists can explore and find their own unique paths to personal growth and freedom.” The collaborative organization offers a diverse range of platforms, from podcasts and community gatherings to group therapy sessions, exhibitions, and workshops. The focus is on fostering personal growth and supporting one another as artists, rather than solely on financial gain.
The group therapy sessions have been a popular, powerful offering. These are authentic sessions with a licensed practitioner, complete with the usual waivers and intake forms.
Just the act of participation has marked a significant change for some artists. "People who never envisioned themselves in therapy now embrace it," Murray says. The safe space and tailored approach to artists' needs have prompted many to explore individual therapy and take a proactive stance on their mental health.
Creating a Path to Community
Murray's advice to others interested in community work is rooted in patience and understanding artists' unique needs. "Take the time to talk to artists on a personal level," he suggests. Conducting surveys and creating a shared space for dialogue can help identify the best approach to supporting the artistic community effectively.
It might take more than one try. Murray says he wished he’d learned sooner to let go when his efforts clearly weren’t working. ”If the artists are not receiving what you're putting out, you can do something else. It's not the end of the world," he says. Allowing for flexibility and adaptability is crucial in community work.
Through NU GRWTH, Murray and other collaborators have crafted a haven where artists can embrace their journey towards love and liberation, supported by a caring community that values mental health and personal growth. As Murray continues to challenge norms and break barriers, his work stands as an inspiration to creatives seeking to empower and uplift their fellow artists. By prioritizing genuine connections and embracing the beauty of shared experiences, Murray is helping to broaden the definition of a successful artist.