One thing, as an artist, we do things that seem superhuman. I like to stay grounded, and I want people to look at me as one of them. I don’t like people to look at me as though I’m so high. In 1997, I put out a fragrance called Southern Exposure. It was my first time being on my own. I would do a lot of in-store appearances promoting the fragrance. People would come in the store, especially when they had their kids, and they would be like “Oh this is Terry Ellis”. It would usually be the parents who blow it up so big, and I could see it in the kids eyes where they thought I was this enormous person, and I would always have to bring it back down. That’s why a lot of kids who want to be in the industry, sometimes it comes from the wrong perspective. This is the real thing. It’s like putting on a hat and doing your job, and then coming home and taking that hat off. You may see me on television, but I’m no different. Bringing it back to the digital age, being able to communicate in that way to feel more realistic and 1 on 1, it makes it more human. I’m real when I respond. We have a real conversation.
U.G. Digital Mag: Well you being here, it’s a testament. People wish celebrities were that way. They wish they got real responses. They want to be respected, and be encouraged, or just have questions.
Terry Ellis: Right. I think it’s important and that’s what I love about it.
U.G. Digital Mag: What type of words of encouragement do you offer to the other artists who don’t know what to expect as an independent?
Terry Ellis: I’d say be prepared to work, because it is grassroots. Understand this is your passion, and have fun with it. I’m sure I’m preaching to the choir, but anyone who has been independent, or have an entrepreneurial spirit about what they do, they understand it’s work but at the same time it’s their passion, and it doesn’t feel like work. You enjoy digging in and figuring out how to make it work. There’s always a solution if you don’t stay focused on the problem. There’s always a solution. Don’t view problems as problems. They are challenges, but not problems. That leaves the door open to the solution coming quicker. That’s part of what makes you stronger, smarter, and successful. And have fun.
U.G. Digital Mag: Again, I’m grateful for the opportunity, and this is another conversation off my bucket list. Thank you so much for allowing this to happen and for us to pay our respects. You’ve done so much for us to be grateful for, but at the same time we’re looking for far more.
Terry Ellis: Thank you for an awesome interview.