F
or two seasons, Don Brumfield has been one of the leading figures of Black Ink
Chicago. As anyone who watches knows, the show chronicles the everyday lives
of several tattoo artists in the city of Chicago, showing first-hand the many situations they encounter together, as well as within their personal lives. Having followed the success of Black Ink Crew New York, the Chicago installment has been wildly successful and popular among viewers. Brumfield has worked hard throughout the show to not only build his brand, but work on and improve things in his own life. We catch up with him to talk about the third season of the VH1 reality show, which airs this week, as well as the many things he has going on, how he's working to uplift his commnity in Chicago, how he was affected by the untimely death of his sister, and so much more.
U.G. Digital Mag: We’ll start off by saying thank you so much. You’re highlighting entrepreneurship, and you’re pushing so much in terms of acting, modeling, and being an entrepreneur. Talk about your experience with the show, and obviously the fact that you’re starting the third season this week?
Bishop Don: It’s been like a complete life change, when you go from being an athlete. That’s your whole life at one point. I spent the first 20 years of my life with a basketball in my hand. You wake up one morning with a completely different opportunity. It’s like, hop on it. At one point, I had completely destroyed my credibility from past mistakes in my life. Honestly, I’m using this opportunity that VH1 has given me to show young women and men that through adversity you still can rebuild, bounce back, and mistakes don’t make you. That’s my goal with taking advantage of the opportunity.
U.G. Digital Mag: That’s the beauty. It’s not one person who hasn’t gone through these things, and it’s good for people to see you bounce back. I’ve dealt with things myself. How difficult was it for you to transition to your new life in the arts and not basketball?
Bishop Don: It wasn’t the transition; it was remaining grounded. I’ve always been the guy in the room to laugh, and make everybody smile and have a good time. I’m a people person. What it was, was staying grounded and focused.