Damarkus Bean, known to fans as Teddy P, is a rapper and entrepreneur making his mark on the Dallas music scene. Originally from West Point, Mississippi, he moved to Dallas to chase his dreams, and he is combining his music career with work that gives back to the community.
“Right now I’m building my brand, expanding the work I’m doing in the community and continuing to release music that blesses people’s ears,” he says. “My biggest motivation is seeing the change I’m making and the smiles on people’s faces after I help them, because that could be me or my family.”
Resilient, loyal and hard-working, Teddy P brings the same drive to his music as he does to his community projects.
How have you overcome your struggles?
“Prayer first. I also never forget where I came from or where I’m trying to go. Knowing my purpose in life, and making music, has helped me through.”
What are you working on right now?
“I’m working on visuals for my music, and I have a new tape coming soon called Can’t Go Back. It’s going to be an eye-opener. Through my organisation, Ant $hit Sweet Ent., I’m also organising more giveaways for homeless people and anyone going through hard times. I’m trying to make a real difference.”
Who has influenced you the most?
“My parents, first of all, but anyone who is making a difference in the world influences me. Being raised by my parents in Mississippi showed me that anything is possible. They taught me how to be a man and how to survive, and seeing how they helped other people inspired me too.”
What lessons have hard times taught you?
Like many independent artists, Teddy P lost chances to perform when concerts and live events were restricted during the pandemic. He has also faced personal setbacks. “I’ve been crossed by people I gave my last to, and by people I trusted who didn’t hold up their end,” he says. “I’ve lost everything and started from square one, then got it all back three times over.”
Rather than letting the past hold him back, he says those experiences taught him valuable lessons and made him more focused on building a strong foundation.
Any final words?
“Don’t be scared to take risks in life. Chase whatever you want, and help someone along the way, because it could be you.”
Teddy P believes success means investing in yourself and in the people who invest in you, and he is determined to make a difference both in his neighbourhood and beyond.
Follow Teddy P
- Instagram: Teddyp_55
- Facebook: Damarkus Bean
- YouTube: Teddy P
This interview was documented by #Focuseddd (@Focuseddd_).
