In The Writer's Den w/Donovan "Groov" Henderson

I couldn't think of a better way to close out an amazing interview series than to sit and talk with this amazingly talented soul.  With a humble spirit and a drive like no other, it's easy to see why everyone loves him so much.  A talented musician, writer, editor-in-chief, driven entrepreneur and CEO, Donovan "Groov" Henderson is someone you should know if you don't already.  So, kick your feet up, learn more about him, support his creativity and get into his Groov...

---

 ◆ How are you doing on this amazing day?
I’m doing quite well. I have a beautiful wife and five children, my life has been blessed beyond measures. An amazing day indeed.

◆ When did you realize you were in love with the art of music?
You know what, when I think back, I would have to say it was around my early teenage years. I was exposed to a lot of different types of music at the expense of my grandmother and her love for listening to the radio in the mornings. I can remember her always having the local radio playing, in another room, and I could hear it, before getting ready for school. The local radio station would play some of every kind of music, pop, rock, R&B, folk, you name it. Little did I know, it was at that point, that my music palet was being formed and it continued from there. I started recording music, from the radio, on cassette tapes in my room, picking out my favorite songs. I began buying records, turntables, and deejaying became my thing. That’s when I began to really fall in love with the art of music.

◆ As an entrepreneur what has been most challenging?
The most challenging to me is, not having the necessary working capital to really function at the highest level possible. Most of what I do from an entrepreneurial perspective comes from my savings account. I don’t have any investors of any kind. 

◆ If you had to describe yourself in the form of a song, what would that be?
​Tough choice here, but I was able to narrow it down. I would say it’s “So Ambitious” by JAY-Z & Pharrell Williams from the Blueprint 3 album.​

​◆ You wear many hats, editor-in-chief, writer, producer, musician and I'm sure there is something else we don't know about that you do very well.  How do you remain focused and dedicated?
My doubters really keep me focused and I think I was just born with the gene that’s attached to dedication. I feel that once God gives me the vision to create from my ideas, I try to remain as determined as possible, regardless of any circumstances. No excuses. Make it happen by any means, even if it means I have to do it myself. As the good book says, to whom much is given, much is required. That’s been my motto for decades now.

◆ Musicians touch so many lives with something as simple as a beautiful melody.  What are your hopes and dreams for the music you create?
​My hopes and dreams through the music I create, are just that, to be able to touch as many lives as possible. Especially, those that I don’t see on a daily basis. When random people reach out to me and say that they’ve heard my music and love the music, I think that is so dope. I feel like I’ve accomplished what I needed to. Music is universal and because of social media today, I am able to create as much as I can, and it touches so many lives globally.​ ​

◆ GroovMagazine.  The name speaks volumes without needing an explanation, however, we want to know when that name was born.
Groov - is my “artist” name that was created in 2007, from the original name Phattgroov Project, which was a jazz band that I formed. Due to a few technicalities, I had to change the name and therefore I dropped the “Phatt” and later on the name Groov was formed. Fast forward several years, my vision to create a music magazine came to life and that’s when GroovMagazine was born.  

◆ Tell us about the man behind the creativity.  What is your day-to-day like when you have taken off your thinking cap and just want to unwind?
When I unwind, I will either sit in my man-cave and watch sports or sometimes play video games. Other times, I will find a good movie to catch at the theaters or sit at home and crank up my surround sound system and make a hot cup of green tea and chill with the wifey. I may even just take a ride and head to the mall and just walk around. 

◆ You can choose one passion to focus on for the next 5 years, what would that be and why?
Operate the magazine in full capacity because that is my calling at the moment. My goal with the magazine has always been to create another avenue for dope artists/musicians to be spotlighted on who they are and what they do.

◆ Where do you find your most inspiration?
Comes from watching others be great when the odds are against them.

◆ What can we look forward to next?
Well, 2022 is right around the corner. I am looking forward to a bigger and better music magazine, expanding and some new branding initiatives. Also, I will be working on a new music project, so excited about that.
 
◆ In closing, is there anything else you would like to say?
I just want to say that I am honored to have been given this opportunity to interview with you. I am grateful. Since it’s still the holiday season, make sure you log on to www.groovmagazine.com/music and download my new single called “The Christmas Song” (2021) it features Raheem Kashon on vocals. The single is free to download. Also, be sure to follow me on social media at @groovmagazine/Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook as well.

---

I am humbled, I am truly thankful, and honored to feature you.  With eyes wide open, I am eagerly awaiting and excited for what is to come from your creative mind.  Thanks for letting all of us 'Groov' with you! 🎼

Connect with Groov:
*Download the latest and greatest in Urban Music: GroovMagazine.Com
*Instagram: @groovmagazine
*Facebook: GroovMagazine
*Twitter: GroovMagazine

---

For a feature 'In The Writer's Den', contact me - [email protected]

~AJ 💫