QUESTIONS & ANSWERS: BRITTANY SOUL

‘Why not bring all my gifts to the table?’

A beloved fixture of the Las Vegas entertainment scene, Brittany Soul is a Nevada native who has mastered her art in a number of forms: vocalist, songwriter, author, and spoken word performer. We caught up with the multi-hyphenate to learn more about her work, motivations, and inspirations. 

What sparked your talent in so many areas as an entertainer? 

I have been a poet and a singer for a long time. I come from a musical family, but in 2008 I thought, “Why not bring all my gifts to the table?” I knew I didn’t want to have my talents restricted and put into a box, or the boxes society might create. I asked myself, “Why not just mix it all up?” That’s when I became a spoken word artist, not just a poet. And for those who don’t understand the difference — poetry is more like the literary written forum, and the presentation is the spoken word. This has been used throughout time and history. For everything ranging from movement, activism — spoken word is its own art technically. I decided back in 2008 that I would do all of it: singing, poetry, spoken word and positive hip-hop. 

Tell me about your new book that you have authored? 

“The Key of Soul” was my first book, and the new book is called “The Key of Hope.” I feel it is so appropriate with everything we are experiencing in the world. The new book is a part of my “Key Book” series; so there is an infusion of poetry, prose, funny and awkward moments in the book. Also, there are value pages where I ask the reader to respond and write their own poetry. There are some vulnerable pieces in the book as well. 

How do you maintain the required discipline to complete all your creative projects? 

I am asked that question a lot, and sometimes I am still trying to identify the best answer. I can tell you that it’s different in different seasons. If I could give some tips for those interested in writing a book — you probably already have this within you. It’s a matter of pulling it out, organizing, and formatting it. I am looking at setting up a writing series whereby I bring accomplished authors together to give their advice and expertise. Also, in those seasons where you are more physically swamped, you should still set some time aside to write a little every day. And during those seasons in your life where you have a little more space, walk away from your writing — knowing that you did more than you started out to write.