In the ever-evolving world of music and creative entrepreneurship, Vie, the driving force behind Darkside Industries (DSI), stands as a beacon of resilience and innovation. A recording artist and musician for over 14 years, Vies’ journey began like many others, with raw passion and creativity. But as the years progressed, he realized that talent alone wasn't enough—it was time to blend art with business.
The Birth of Darkside Industries
During the 2020 quarantine, Vie found himself with the two most critical resources for creation: time and space. He took advantage of his family home and began opening his doors to fellow creatives. What started as a personal project soon grew into a thriving multimedia network. Today, Darkside Industries operates out of Rahway, New Jersey, providing a platform for creatives, small business owners, and talent development. From music production to visual media, DSI has become a hub for artistry and entrepreneurship.
The Power of Personality and Upbringing
Vie attributes much of his success to his upbringing. "I was privileged," he says, not in the traditional financial sense, but through the love and support he received from his family. As the eldest grandchild, he was tasked with responsibility early on, which helped shape his leadership skills. His nurturing environment allowed him to avoid the scarcity mindset that often plagues creatives. Vies’ ability to stay grounded and make space for others has been crucial in his role as a leader at DSI, where he mentors and collaborates with other creatives.
Embracing Challenges and Celebrating Wins
Starting a creative business during a pandemic wasn’t easy, but Vie learned to appreciate the small victories along the way. “What I’m doing now doesn’t resemble anything I had access to as a young creative,” he reflects. Creating opportunities that didn't exist for him in his early years is a win in itself, one that fuels his drive to keep growing DSI.
One of the biggest challenges Vie faces is navigating the people business. Whether it’s dealing with clients, collaborators, or his own team, managing relationships is always a complex task. However, his natural ability to connect with people has allowed him to overcome these obstacles and continue pushing forward.
Community and Events: The Heart of DSI
At the core of Darkside Industries is its commitment to building community. From monthly events at a Black-owned arcade to workshops and producer nights, DSI offers more than just entertainment—it provides experiences. These gatherings create a space where creatives can network, collaborate, and grow. "We're in the business of people, not just art," Vie explains, emphasizing the importance of making meaningful connections.
One of DSI’s signature events is “Play Around and Find Out,” where attendees can enjoy live music, DJs, gaming, and more. For Vie, it's essential that people leave these events with more than just a memory of a performance. He wants them to feel like they've been part of something special, something that transcends a typical night out.
A Message to Creatives: Trust Yourself and Plant Seeds
When asked what message he would share with the world, Vies’ advice is simple but powerful: "Plant a seed, trust yourself, and remember that everyone is on their own journey." He emphasizes the importance of meeting people where they are and allowing time for growth. "When you plant seeds, you don't see them harvest immediately," he says. The journey requires patience and trust in the process.
For young creatives struggling with imposter syndrome, Vie encourages self-love and self-affirmation. Having faced his own battles with self-confidence as a young man, Vie understands the importance of speaking positively to yourself and believing in your abilities. "Love on yourself as much as possible," he advises, especially if you didn’t grow up receiving words of affirmation.
The Future of Darkside Industries
As DSI continues to grow, Vie envisions more workshops, curriculum-based programs, and opportunities for creatives to learn and collaborate. His ultimate goal is to provide the resources and support that he and his peers didn’t have access to in their early years. With a solid team by his side and a relentless drive to succeed, Vie is poised to take Darkside Industries to new heights.
As he reflects on his journey, Vie is filled with gratitude for the people who have supported him along the way. "I haven’t been alone in this," he says, acknowledging the dedication and hard work of his team. Together, they are building something bigger than themselves—a creative empire that will continue to inspire and empower for years to come.
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Stay tuned for more from Vie and Darkside Industries as they continue to shape the future of creativity in New Jersey and beyond.
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