Chances Williams "Stands In" to "Stand Out"

When it comes to creating opportunities that will allow him to stand out, upcoming actor Chances Williams is no stranger. He is currently a stand-in for Nadji Jeter on the BET television series, Reed Between the Lines but his talent allowed him to stand out. I had the honor of speaking with Chances who currently resides in Atlanta, GA. Although we have never met in person, his down to earth personality made me feel like I already knew him.

Currently in the process of following his childhood passion of acting, Chances faced many experiences that could have led him on a different path. Born and raised in the DMV (DC, Maryland Virginia) area, he managed to survive nine years in foster care after being separated from his drug-addicted mother. A sum of his childhood consisted of moving from group homes, to treatment centers and boarding schools. He was born Antoine Daniel Williams but given the name “Chances” by his foster mother, Jean Laci. When he became her foster child, she believed she was given a second chance to be a mother and Chances was receiving his second chance to have a family. Chances gives his foster mother much credit for the amazing person he is today.

In spite of the challenges he faced, Chances managed to travel to North Carolina to work with the Hurricane Katrina relief and eventually moved to Atlanta to finish his Bachelors degree in Business from Bauder College. His move to Atlanta prompted him to pursue a career in acting. With advice from his mentor Isoul Harris, Editor-in-Chief of Upscale magazine, Chances took a leap of faith. His first professional experience was doing background for the BET television show, Let’s Stay Together and he has worked on the set of Teen Wolfe, Vampire Diaries and the hit series The Game. While working for Reed Between the Lines, preparation met opportunity when he received a role on the episode entitled “College Boys.” His current role as a stand-in allows him to work with amazing and talented actors and receive advice from the likes of Malcolm Jamal Warner and Tracee Ellis Ross. Although he is at the beginning of his career, his leap of faith has allowed him to stand out and start a lucrative career for himself.

When I asked Chances what does it mean to go for yours? He explained that he goes for his by being a genuinely real person. Anyone who meets him knows he is real. He thrives on positivity and loves being around positive people who are doing something and are motivated. He uses his belief in Christ as a steppingstone and strongly believes that anything is possible and no matter where you come from you can always change your life.

To find out more information about chances you can follow him on twitter @chances_one or visit www.facebook.com/Keyword: Chances Fan Love.

Go for Yours Interview with Antwan Davis

When it comes to living his dream, the talented music artist Antwan Davis doesn’t take “no” for an answer. Born and raised in the heart of North Philly, Antwan became passionate about music at a young age. He looked up to his older cousins who had an ear for music, and he began to make music himself. Philadelphia birthed an array of talented artists such as the Fresh Prince (Will Smith), Freeway and my all time favorite Eve, but Antwan was most inspired by the musical legend Tupac. Antwan caught my eyes and ears after I saw his video for “Finer Things.” I was impressed with the professionalism of his video and the creativity in his lyrics. After listening to more songs and viewing his website I decided to catch up with Antwan in order to find out how he continued to hold the torch amongst the many talented artists in his area.

How do you describe your music?
My music as honest, instead of trying to sound like the next person I use my music to talk about what I am familiar with. After listening to one of my albums, you will know more about me as a person.

The music industry is a competitive industry, what are some obstacles you have faced that helped motivate you to work harder?
One of the hardest things to do is gaining supporters and fans. Philly is a tough place for an artist to make it out of. Keeping my drive while gaining support from the non-believers is not easy. I overcome this obstacle by never taking “no” for an answer.



What are some of your career highlights?
I recently did a show called, Fresh Fest which was a big show for me, because of the positive feedback I received. It is a good feeling when you can present new material to the world and they like it. That was a highlight for me.

What can we expect from Antwan Davis in 2012?
I finished shooting the video for the “Break it Down” remix featuring two Philly artists. I am also working on a new album entitled “Established,” as well as a soul inspiration Anita Baker tribute album produced by Wesmandchild. Every song on this album will have a sample from the R&B legend, Anita Baker.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to “go for theirs “in the music industry?
People who are passionate about music should know that they will always have naysayers. Regardless of what it is, you should never take no for an answer. Continue to work hard, keep your drive and reach your goal.


You can receive more information about Antwan by visiting www.antwandavis.com and following him on twitter @AntwanDavisEST.

Antwan Davis "Finer Things"