Hang Ten is an easily-digested, quick-to-read interview series. I created it to pick the brains of some powerhouse women that I’ve been fortunate enough to know because of SFB. I fire off the questions, you give the answers.
I think I was first drawn to Schondra Aytch because it’s clear she brings something different to the table. I was lucky enough to be featured on Qween City, a local publication Schondra writes for. After my article was posted, I started following some of their female contributors on Instagram — Schondra was one of them.
If you want to think about male-dominated industries, let’s go beyond finance bros and C-suites. Because when it comes to writing about music, Schondra’s line of work, not only do you need a resounding opinion, but you need to find a way for your readers to value that opinion. And ladies, I don’t need to tell you twice: There’s nothing more taboo than a woman with an opinion.
What’s even more interesting about Schondra is her passion for Hip-Hop music in particular, perhaps one of the most masculine-skewing cultures within the music industry. I don’t need to look at the stats to know that the majority of Hip-Hop artists, producers, and yes, critics, are male.
Shondra is a true pioneer and disruptive force, in the best way possible. She’s a Buffalonian by way of New York City, and a dedicated student of Buffalo’s Hip Hop scene. I thank her immensely for taking the time and energy to so thoughtfully complete one of our Hang Ten interviews.
Hang Ten
1. What do you do with your down time? I watch A LOT of YouTube videos. I’m really into creators like Hallease and Evelyn of the Internets; these creators touch on mental health, productivity, and aren’t afraid to share their daily enlightenments about anything. I appreciate that, and want to emulate that in my work.
2. What’s the secret to “having it all”? I don’t think there’s any secret, but if I had to choose the most universal virtue for being a successful multi-tasker, it would be consistency. We can’t achieve anything without being consistent.
3. Who do you have a career crush on? There’s so many creators I admire! But if I had to choose my top three, it would be Amanda Seales, Issa Rae, and Evelyn of the Internets. They are all women that have maintained their voice/narrative throughout their career. That is a super power!
4. Who’s your favorite Buffalo celebrity? I truly admire Mikayla, also known as @subculture.kay. She is a writer, socialite, and all-around hustler as the founder and Editor-in-Chief of probably the most unique magazine in Buffalo, SUBCULTURE. I appreciate the fact that she’s giving creators of color, including myself, the opportunity to elevate themselves through her magazine.
5. What podcast recommendation would you give everyone? My all-time favorite podcast would have to be Small Doses by Amanda Seales. She captures the black experience so seamlessly, while also breeding conversations that encourage intellectual and emotional growth.
6. What was your first car? I’ve actually never had a car! Ironically, when I was younger, I used to romanticize taking public transport… and now I’ve been doing it for six years!
7. Without context, who or what are you missing right now? I’m really missing going to live shows in the city. In the past few years, local hip-hop shows have become the highlight and continuous inspiration for me to learn about artists here. Without shows, YouTube has become my prime access to keeping up with music locally and nationally.
8. What’s a book you’ve read that’s had a positive impact on your life? Amanda Seales also has a book titled “Small Doses.” It covers everything from love to mental health, and all the wisdom nuggets she has learned on her journey as a performer/radio personality and hip-hop enthusiast. Very relatable and entertaining.
9. What are you doing to take care of yourself during a global pandemic? Naturally an introvert, I’ve always cherished and protected my personal space. With that being said, I want to maintain balance, especially during these months in quarantine. Recently I’ve gotten a kitten, and I also try to spend time with my family once a week to avoid staying stagnant. Staying engaged with the things that matter the most helps me continue to work toward my goals as a writer and music commentator.
10. What’s a lesson you’re still learning? Always learning to speak up for myself, even when I’m fearful. I’ve realized my growth only comes when I’m intentional and vocal about my perspective. Currently a work in progress.
—
Schondra Aytch is a music writer and content creator currently living in Buffalo, NY. You can check out her blog, Sneakvibing, by clicking here. Also, read her contributions to the Qween City publication here.