So it is my pleasure to bring to you the Dame himself, Damon Rhodes. Damon is rising to be one of the nations leading male models. Take a look at this hot exclusive interview from Damon Rhodes.
First off thank you so much for taking the time to do this interview.
Thank you for the opportunity (smiles).Who is Damon Rhodes?
Who is Damon Rhodes? (chuckles) Well that is a very interesting question because there are so many different facets to my personality. Well, I am a very complex person. I am a versatile model/photographer from Baltimore, MD who understands his potential; looking to explore all facets of entertainment. Embarking on a journey of triumph. Determined to inspire and overcome philistinism. At what age did you begin modeling?
Well, technically I have been modeling since I was fourteen, but always loved taking photos since I was about seven years of age (using a disposable camera). I use to take my own photos using the self-timer on my camera and write concepts for my little mini-photoshoots lol even at a young age I was very creative. At that time I thought nothing of it...it was just fun being able to express myself creatively; photography became my outlet.
What was growing up like for you?
Growing up for me was amazing! I was such a happy, free-

Whew lol, so what started you in modeling?
Well, as I mentioned before I always had a strong liking for photography and took photos but I never actually pursued it until June 2011. My close friend Dariel Pulliam (R.I.P.) always encouraged me to go into modeling and in his words "use what you got to get what you want", lol. I always knew that I wanted to study photojournalism and be in involved with the entertainment industry but I never knew how to get my foot in the door. It wasn't until April 5th (my birthday and the day Dariel passed away) that I had the courage to take a chance and pursue my dreams rather than continue to make excuses. It took my close friend dying for me to truly live. Dariel's passing really woke me up; I went through a period of just not knowing what to think or do but I believe that God has a plan for everyone and I tried to put Dariel's passing into perspective. Now I feel like I have a responsibility to do what Dariel set out for me to do and what I ultimately wanted to do myself with my career endeavors. I feel obligated to continue to carry on his legacy since he unfortunately never got that chance. I feel like i'm carrying the torch so to speak.
Ok, your chocolate photo shoot what inspired that (LOL)?

Ok since you are a Baltimore Resident what do you think is the hardest part about being a model in the city?
Well, honestly I don't even think about it. Once my mind is made up, its made up and I allow nothing and no one to get in my way. However, I will say that Baltimore can be a very ignorant and negative city; atleast in my experience. I am from West Baltimore, Maryland originally and grew up there until I was about ten when I moved to Baltimore County. Although, I have so many great memories from my childhood; growing up in an urban area was challenging at times. I experienced alot of negativity from my peers towards both myself and others. Its just a tough city but it definitely builds character and thick skin. Growing up in Baltimore makes me feel like i'm prepared for the not-so-positive side of life. I am use to negativity, therefore, I feel prepared for the negative energy that i'm likely to receive from others. It comes with the territory I guess, as long as I keep a strong faith there really are no challenges. The sky is the limit. What is your favorite style of modeling?
Hmm, I'm not sure. Because I would classify myself as a "versatile model", I would probably say that I don't have a "favorite" style of modeling. I can appreciate them all. I love how eclectic modeling is; now that I am pursuing it as a career I have grown to appreciate it alot more. Modeling is not as easy and simple as it seems to the naked eye, there is much work involved; TRUST ME.Who is your biggest influence in the model world?
As far as modeling goes, I do not have too many major influences. However, I am loving Andrej Pejic right now. He is an amazing androgynous Australian male model. He is doing what I urge to do and that is "kick the door in" so to speak. I also want to change the stereotypical stigma of what a "male model" really is. I believe that Tyson Beckford, Mark Vanderloo and Marcus Schenkenberg all did a great job at establishing male models as a force in the fashion industry. At the same time, I feel that change in male models and the way that they are viewed is LONG OVERDUE! Female models have experienced many changes but in my opinion not as much change has happened in the male modeling industry. I'd like to be apart of changing that (smiles). Who is your favorite photographer?
My favorite photographer has always been David LaChappelle! I have always appreciated how he can juggle symbolism and yet still have a raw point of view. He evokes so much emotion through his imagery. He is pure genius!
What would you say is the hardest thing about being a male model?
Probably the stereotypes that you automatically walk into but thats with anything in life. Male modeling lacks versatility; there are slight changes that i've seen but the male modeling industry isn't changing fast enough. Its time for male models to be as highly paid and recognizable as their female counterparts. Thats what I would like to see.
I was very caught off guard and flattered. I thought "hmm, this could be a great opportunity for me". Atlanta Gay Pride is one of the biggest gay prides in the country especially among the African-American audience. The gay community is very honest as well as supportive and POWERFUL! Look at artists like Lady Gaga, Madonna, Beyonce', and Lil' Kim...all iconic in their own right with huge gay followings. Designers such as Marc Jacobs and Victoria Beckham also have huge homosexual followings. I feel that the LGBT community are the people who buy albums, magazines, have a major influence on fashion and ultimately are the future of today's society. The music and fashion industries are very well aware of this fact and have capitalized on it. I feel that it is very important to gain support from people of all ethnicities, ages, and sexualities. What better way than to be displayed before a huge audience like the audience at ATL Gay Pride? Its risky but I like to take risks.
What does modeling mean to you?
Everything. It is the foundation that will surely lead me to a successful career in all of my future endeavors.What do you do to keep yourself in shape?
Well, I am naturally toned so I do not have to do much but recently I joined the gym in attempts to build muscle mass. I mainly workout my chest and tricep areas and I like to do cardio for about 45 minutes. On a good week I workout four times a week but lately I haven't worked out at all! lolWhat do you usually do right before a photo shoot?
I try not to eat anything HEAVY! (chuckles) and if I can, I try to workout. I usually eat nothing but fruit and drink water on the day of a shoot.I like to have my personal time. I am known for being a boisterous people person but I also love my private time. I am just as much of a loner as I am a people person. I think thats one thing about me that would surprise people, only my close friends and family know that about me. I am always thinking of a concept for a shoot and how I can make it happen. I always have many different thoughts at a time so I am always thinking of something! thats probably what I like to do most. Just express my creativity. I also love to catch up with friends and sorta lose myself in their lives, if only for a minute lol my life can be so hectic and busy at times that I often lose track of what is going on around me.
Can you walk us through a day in the life of Damon Rhodes?
Oh god! lol I wake up at 4:50a.m. every morning for work, brush my teeth, take a shower, go to work, get off at 3pm, go to school twice a week, possibly workout, respond to inquiries and emails, run my fansite/social networks, eat and go to sleep and do it all over again the next day.Who has been your favorite photographer and companies to work with?
Adrian Buckmaster, I have learned alot from him. He is such a demiurgic person.You are most noted for your different styles of modeling and being very versitile, what influences your shoots?
Anything and Everything. Music, Art...Life. I love to challenge myself.Besides modeling what are some other things you enjoy doing?
Where do you see yourself 5 year from now?
In Five years...well, first of all, through the Grace of God I would like to be alive! I would like to be able to still provide for myself and be able to make a difference. Success comes with much responsibility and I understand that. I want to venture into acting, photography, and even dance. All facets of entertainment intrigue me. I am interested in so many things in life; why should I limit myself? i've never believed in that. Life is too short to plan your life accordingly, NOTHING goes as planned. All we can do is try to do right by God, learn from our experiences and try to live a happy life.
What are some words of advice you have for a young man trying to break into the Wonderful World of Male Modeling?
Be Patient. Patience is something that I have had to learn. Because I am such a inquisitive person; I have always been so interested in the vast arts of life! I want so much for myself, I am really hard on myself because I am afraid of failure. I use to always say that "failure is not an option", when in all actuality, failure is necessary for success! So my advice to that young man would be to be patient! harness your destiny. Nothing in life is predestined so if you want something you really have to work hard to make it happen. Nothing in this world will be handed to you, seriously! Believe in your abilities, pray and allow yourself to make mistakes and experience life. Everything that is meant to be will be. Do you have any last words for your fans and my viewers?
I'd hire him!
ReplyDeleteWOW! he's gorge and actually has a brain! rivetting :) Good Article.
ReplyDeleteThis dude is amazing! how is it that he is attractive and intelligent? He is very well spoken as well. I love to see a young man pursue his dreams especially a young black man keep it up God is blessing you!
ReplyDeleteI want him now!
ReplyDeleteMY DREAM MAN IS HERE! we already have 6 kids you know lol but seriosuly, good interview. I look forward to seeing more from him can I subscribe to this site?
Your interview was simply amazing. Your story was beautiful. You are truly blessed & have blessed everyone around you with your talent and words of wisdom. Not many people can stay grounded once they have "made it to the top" but your not letting that get to you..You have the love and support of family, friends and many more people. I sincerely wish you the best in all of your facets throughout your journey.. much love & stay Blessed.
ReplyDeleteHe seems really humble and ambitious, I like him alot.
ReplyDelete& Lil Kim, lol . . . I knew datt was coming!
ReplyDeleteIve met Damon once or twice hes really nice and gorgeous in person! Congrats on all of your success!
ReplyDeleteI dont really know him but he is on my fb and seems very humble, hes always posting positive msgs and from what I see in this interview he is very intriguing. Much love dude
ReplyDelete-BJ
this boy is on his grind! i've been seeing him all over tumblr, twitter, fb, on promos for events and youtube! who knows whats next he might be in a damn music video lol go dame! much respect yo hustle hard homie
ReplyDeletesexy man sexy keep it up!
ReplyDeleteI'll admit his look brought me here but after reading the article his personality is what keeps me interested. Brilliant hes gonna go far I feel it certain things are inevitable!
ReplyDeletethis boy is going to go far in everything he does! No one is he driven but he doesn't forget his surroundings and where he's started.. He has my support in everything he does !
ReplyDeleteI like him alot! :)
ReplyDeleteI am really impressed. Real Talk.
ReplyDeletePlus he is really humble and nice as guy.
I wish you all the best Damon.
Amazing Translation, best of luck Damon!
ReplyDeleteI LOVE MY BOI DAMON!!! Hopefully in the future Ill be able to meet an work with him!!! ~ya boi Trevon Boogie Holmes of D Town~
ReplyDeleteWell said, awesome interview! Kemancheo
ReplyDelete