Embracing Community and Music: Owuor Arunga's Journey on 'The Day with Trae'
In this interview on The Day with Trae, hosted by Trae Holiday, guest Owuor Arunga discusses his deep connection to the Seattle arts scene, the importance of community, and his musical journey. Arunga is an accomplished trumpeter and producer, known for his work with renowned artists and projects such as The Heist by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis. He reflects on his upbringing in Seattle, where he was shaped by strong mentorship and educational opportunities in music. Institutions like Langston Hughes and the new Black Arts West Theater played a crucial role in his development, offering a space for growth and artistic exploration.
Arunga shares personal anecdotes about his early musical influences, including teachers at Thurgood Marshall Elementary and Garfield High School who helped ignite his passion for jazz. He credits mentors like La Versa Sullivan for teaching him about music technology and guiding him toward a career in production. This foundation inspired him to give back, leading him to teach music to youth at places such as the Discovery Center in Tacoma.
He emphasizes the spiritual and community-driven aspects of music, describing it as a "secret order" passed down through generations. Arunga stresses the significance of giving back and maintaining a commitment to the community, which is evident in his continued involvement in projects that cultivate the next generation of artists. The conversation also highlights Langston Hughes' ongoing mission to provide accessible opportunities for young people, echoing the open-door policy Arunga experienced growing up.
Arunga concludes by expressing his passion for the arts and the importance of community-driven institutions in nurturing talent, celebrating the lasting impact of mentors and institutions on his musical journey.
For more information, arungamusic.com.
To see more guests like Arunga, tune in with Trae every weekday at 11 a.m. on all Converge Media platforms and The Day With Trae YouTube Channel.
