Lamarquita Leach
Age: 23
“I hope people can take away the emotion that I truly put into that and see hope.”
Lamarquita Leach was marching for Black Lives Matter this summer and looking for a way to get her voice out there when
she heard about the Mixtape Project. It was an entry point for her.
Meeting other local artists was empowering. Hearing the music of her peers was “a goosebumps experience,” and
participating has helped her feel part of an artistic community, she said.
While Leach, 23, learned technical skills, writing tips and how to use some recording equipment, a big takeaway has been
the courage to put herself out there.
Leach was adopted when she was 3 & 1/2, and around that time, poetry helped her figure out who she was. It meant freedom,
a way of communicating and a way through mental health struggles.
Writing through tears is a good coping mechanism and a safe space in which to lower her guard.
“Words, to me, became something so powerful, and I knew in that instant that it was something no one could take away. …
Everything I write is so personal, and I’m sure other people can relate,” she said.
The most gratifying parts of participating in the Mixtape has been the opportunity to channel her passion and hurt in a
positive and different way. Here’s an excerpt from her track:
My people getting killed cuz of the color skin
Can you imagine my pain from within
Where were the guns when people was breaking down the capital
forgot it was white folks so there factual actions were actable
To them they actions were actually practicable
The factual reality is people acting so casual
“I want people to feel every word that I felt when I wrote it,” she said.
The Mixtape Project highlights youth, who are often discredited or undervalued, Leach said, and she’d like to see it expand.
“I’m really proud to be a part of something like this, and I really wish there were more opportunities like this.”
Music is about storytelling, and listening to the stories of others during this has helped her know she’s not alone.
Her tips for others are to be willing to accept feedback and dedicate time toward taking suggested action, and let go of the
fear of judgment.
“Don’t be afraid to be who you are as an artist. Allow yourself to be vulnerable.
Music’s not anything if you don’t open up and tell your story.”
written by Melinda Lavine
