Interview with author and motivational speaker Rene Reyes

René Reyes was born in Portugal and immigrated to the United States with her parents when she was in her teens. In this interview, this independent artist will discuss her inspirational career in poetry and spoken word, and much more.

Cendrine Marrouat: Hello René, it is great to have you. As a starter, tell us a little more about you.

René Reyes: Greetings  Cendrine! I am a Poet and Spoken Word Artist who has been writing since age six in Portuguese. I am also an award-winning Ghost Songwriter for various indie and major label artists.

CM: Why did you choose poetry to express yourself?

RR: Life wasn’t always so beautiful or understood as it is today, so I wrote to heal from all the pain and agony of a very mixed emotional childhood and upbringing. Writing poetry has saved my life repeatedly.

CM: You have written six novels and recorded six spoken word CDs. Do they share a common theme?

RR: I think my lyrics have a signature theme of well-described beauty; however the themes are fairly different.  I have over ten thousand poems and they all stem from experiences, what I see in others, love, pain, heartbreak, joy and spirituality. The secret is that very few are actually about me.

CM: How has your work been received in Canada? Have you noticed differences with the United States? What about other countries?

RR: My work is best received in Europe and that could be because that’s home! In Canada, the audience has always been very receptive and open to anything I may bring to the stage or post on any site. The United States is the most difficult country to gain well deserved respect as a poet or artist because the support is usually compromised by competitive spirits that don’t extend enough long-term support.

CM: In your biography you mention what your grandfather used to say, “Control your accent and make the people focus on your talents and not your dialect to gain their respect. Native accents and tongues are to be cherished amongst family.” How important are languages in your life?

RR: Language is extremely important in my life and I am very adamant about honouring what my Grandpai said because I’ve seen firsthand how true his words are. Before we knew how to hide an accent, we were treated like illiterate immigrants in the United States, so we are very cautious about linguistics and very proud to have mastered English so very well.

CM: You are also a motivational speaker. Why did you choose this path?

RR:  Motivational / Inspirational Speaking is an extended gift from God that has helped so many in over 23 countries! So, I didn’t really choose that path; it chose me and I do it out of obedience of appreciating the gift. It goes hand in hand with gospel music I may sing as well.

CM: As an independent artist and entrepreneur, what are the main challenges that you encounter?

RR: The biggest challenge is keeping material and performances fresh and new for the audience.  As an entrepreneur, the biggest challenge is finding workers and staff that can amalgamate to my heavy travel schedule, but it works out!

CM: What are some words/quotes you live by?

RR: Isaiah 54:17: “No Weapon Formed Against Me Shall Prosper”

CM: What is next for you?

RR: My new perfume line, which did well overseas, is now being prepared to market in the United States and Canada! They are called “Suculenta” and “Prolific Beauty”. I am also booking a heavier speakers calendar for 2011 and less open mic events.

CM: Where can people find more information about your work?

RR:  ReneReyesInternational.com  and ReneReyes.org  are great starting points.

CM: Any last words?

RR: I am humbled and honoured by this interview! Thank you for your consideration!