We had the good fortune of connecting with Armanda Dempsey and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Armanda, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
My decision to launch my own business stemmed from a deep-seated desire to share the music I had meticulously crafted over the years. In today’s era, artists have unprecedented opportunities to maintain autonomy and express themselves without constraints. Personally, I’ve long felt at odds with societal norms and regulations, particularly when they encroach upon artistic expression. I refuse to compromise my art to fit within prescribed boxes, preferring authenticity over conformity. Rather than conforming to societal expectations, I’d opt to preserve the integrity of my art or abstain from sharing it altogether.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Creating art is a deeply personal journey that reflects one’s unique perspective, experiences, and emotions. What sets me apart is not just the art itself, but the journey behind it—the raw authenticity and unwavering commitment to staying true to myself, even in the face of adversity.

The path to where I am today professionally has been anything but easy. Like many artists, I’ve encountered numerous challenges and setbacks along the way. But it’s through these trials that I’ve discovered the true essence of my art and myself. It’s in the moments of hardship and perseverance that I’ve found the deepest truths and insights, shaping both my craft and my character.

Staying authentic amidst societal pressures to conform or pursue a different path has been paramount. Despite external voices urging me to veer in different directions, I’ve remained steadfast in my commitment to my own truth. I’ve learned to delve deeply into the lessons woven into my individual journey, recognizing that each experience, whether joyful or painful, carries invaluable wisdom.

I believe that every individual possesses a unique story, born from their own pain and experiences. It’s through embracing and sharing these stories authentically that we contribute to making the world a richer and more compassionate place. My art is not just about self-expression; it’s about fostering connection and understanding, bridging the gap between spirit and truth.

In a world where authenticity is often overshadowed by superficiality, I aspire to be a beacon of genuine expression and connection. I envision a future where humanity collectively embraces truth and enlightenment, where we guide each other home through our shared experiences and unwavering authenticity

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting Orange County, California, for a week, I would create an unforgettable experience filled with a mix of beach vibes, unique local spots, and hidden gems.

Day 1: We’d kick off the trip with a visit to one of my two favorite Orange County beaches, like Laguna Beach or Huntington Beach. Soak up a warm cloudy day watching giant waves.

Day 2: For a taste of local culture, we’d explore the charming neighborhoods of Orange, stopping by one of my favorite eclectic costume shops, Gasoline Alley to find some fun outfits for our adventures ahead.

Day 3: It wouldn’t be a trip to Orange County without a visit to the “anti-mall called “The Lab”, which is a trendy and unconventional shopping destination filled with indie boutiques, artisanal eateries, and vibrant street art. The lab will always hold good memories for me.

Day 4: We’d embark on a scenic hike to 1000 Steps Beach, my favorite spot in the area. Nestled along the coastline, this hidden gem offers breathtaking views and a secluded atmosphere perfect for relaxation and reflection and a sunset picnic.

Day 5: To experience Orange County’s culinary scene, we’d dine at some of the local hotspots, from trendy beachside cafes serving fresh seafood to cozy bistros

Day 6: In the evening, we’d explore Orange County’s vibrant nightlife scene, hopping between rooftop bars, live music venues, and speakeasy-style lounges

Day 7: We’d conclude our trip with a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk, taking in the sights of local artists and sounds of Orange County’s coastal beauty one last time before bidding farewell to this unforgettable destination.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I am incredibly fortunate to have a team of exceptional artists who share in my creative journey and support each other wholeheartedly. For my latest release, “Beauty Queen,” I collaborated with several talented individuals who helped bring my artistic vision to life. Jason Camiolo lent his expertise as the producer for the song, ensuring its sound resonated with authenticity and emotion.

I also want to extend my heartfelt appreciation to my dear friend Andrew Brigida of @digitalperceptionmedia, as well as Hunter from @thedesignersaylor and Bettijo Bridges with @loop101media, for their invaluable contributions to crafting the captivating visual narrative of the music video. Their creativity and dedication elevated the storytelling aspect of the project, allowing me to convey the depths of my emotions and personal experiences.

A special acknowledgment goes to my guitar player, Lockie Munro, whose musical prowess and acting served as the perfect complement to the narrative thread of the song. Together, we collaborated closely to weave together the intricate layers of my heartache and translate it into a visually compelling journey.

Working alongside friends who share a mutual passion for artistic expression made this project an unforgettable experience. I am immensely grateful for their talent, support, and unwavering commitment to bringing my truth to life through our collective creativity

Website: https://www.armandadempsey.com/

Instagram: @armandadempsey_

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArmandaDempsey?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@armandadempsey?si=TodXGVF8DHILB6bq

Other: https://www.loop101media.com/

Image Credits
photo credit: Andrew Brigida with @digitalperceptionphoto

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutArizona is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.