I drive into the parking lot and immediately notice a canopy with benches and tables. I exit my vehicle and scan the grounds. There are tennis courts to the left of the canopy. Beyond that was a huge green field for the children to play. A group of teenage girls huddled around one of the benches under the canopy captures my attention. My suspicion led me to the group. I introduce myself.
Camryn presents herself dressed in a loose tourqoise blouse partially revealing a shoulder and the undershirt. Her blue jeans and open toe pink sandals matched her pink Hello Kitty necklace, which glistened in the sunlight. She wore a peace ring four fingers breadth on her left hand. A big pink heart ring adorned her right hand. A zebra print purse hung on her right shoulder.
As she interacted with friends, she resembled the average down-to-earth teenage girl. One might imagine the contrary knowing that Gerald Levert is her father.
My attention intensifies as Aaron, Glaze TV director, prepares for Camryn's videoshoot. Emani Salih, Aurie Sams, Dominique Bymum, Kia Chiefcalf, Justin Nordstrom, Sarah Stipek, and Ja-Cee Mercardo -Hinton huddle around Camryn; offering friendly support; awaiting their role in the music video.
The group migrates to the basketball court. This is my opportunity to speak with Camryn at a more personal level. Camryn is shy at first. She appeared to be a bit nervous as I initiated the conversation. We sat on the grass near the basketball court as the others continued to prepare for the videoshoot.
"Camryn, how long have you been singing?" I asked.
Camryn smiled, looked skyward, as if to consult a higher power. Her smile broke, "I have been singing since I was five and performing professionally since I was eleven." She describes her music as pop/R&B.
Camryn added that her father is her motivation for singing.
No boyfriend for this young lady. No time for a boyfriend. Camryn is serious about her career and intends to remain focused. Mom - Amber Hawkins - helps with the focusing.
Camryn appeared more relaxed and involved as our conversation continued.
Camryn's biggest support group is her mother and little sister Breanna. Camryn comments, "They are always there for me, no matter how many hours it takes for me to get something done. It makes me feel bad. But, I'm thankful for them."
I daringly inquire whether she misses her father. Camryn smiles dreamingly and tells me that when she was a little girl her father would whisper in her ear. Camryn added, "I can't tell you what he would say. Because I don't remember. But, that's what I miss the most."
August was a busy month, performing at The O'Jays reunion and holding a fundraiser for less fortunate peers. The reunion was held at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. There, she mixed with Eddie Levert, Samuel L Jackson, Magic Johnson, Monique, Mike Tyson, and Bobby Jones.
Camryn's fund raiser was for less fortunate Whitney Ranch Elementary School children. The school is located in Las Vegas.
I conclude the interview telling Camryn that with a schedule like hers, it's a wonder how she maintains A-B Honor Roll status.
Keep up the great work Camryn!
(To be continued)
Story by Keshia Wells
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