The BALDWIN sits down for an intimate interview with Model/Singer/Actor Randy Bowden Jr. The talent talks about being Black and thriving in the industry, having to be ‘better’ and his favorite last minute holiday must-haves.
At first listen, it sounds like Randy Bowden Jr. harmonizes even with his speaking voice. But no — he’s simply a walking, talking — and singing; melody. Originally from Alabama, Bowden came to New York City with dreams of a career in entertainment.
To date, he signed with State Model Management — one of the city’s premiere modeling agencies. He and his boyfriend also appeared on the hit BET series Hustle in Brooklyn — and Bowden was a featured face in the best-selling coffee table books, “Black Boy Joy” by Joshua Renfroe, and “Reparations: Style + Soul,” by James R. Sanders.
With appearances at Mobi Fest, The Breakfast Club, and partnerships with Samsung and voting initiatives — we’d say his dream is quickly becoming a reality. If you ask Bowden, he’ll say he’s not there yet. Below, we ask Bowden about the industry, racism, and the holidays:
BALDWIN | As things in the fashion industry begin to change (though we are still unsure if for the better, or worse), people are making statements. Models have traditionally been expected to be silent. What is your stance on this? Are you silent, or are you using your platform to bring about change in fashion and beauty?
RBJ | I am definitely continuing to use my platform to speak out about the necessary changes that must take place in order for true inclusivity to cultivate throughout the industry at large. I feel that there are changes being made within brands, and fashion houses — however, I do believe we are still not fully represented.
From speaking out on various panels I’ve done, to using my platform for WokeVote.org this past General Election; I have felt a different motivation. I’m very much into politics. Who knows; it may be a public service positioning in my future?
BALDWIN | In addition to being a signed agency model, you are also an actor and singer. How important is it for you as a Black creative to be multifaceted? Is there more pressure to succeed?
RBJ | This is such an amazing question because I literally use to water myself down at the beginning of modeling because I thought at the time, it was making me too mature (because I was starting later as a model than industry standard) — or that it would make casting directors think I wasn’t a “real model” because I wasn’t on a skateboard.
I ultimately learned that my degree, my voice, and my talent is what made me an even better model. As a creative in general, is it imperative that you are multifaceted to be able to keep a variety projects on the schedule. I also like for people not to expect what I have coming. Being able to juggle God given talents is a privilege for which I will always be grateful.
BALDWIN | People love an overcomer. Can you talk about a disappointing time during your career and then address how you overcame it?
RBJ | How many times would you like to hear? Lol. Honestly, I’ve quit modeling, fashion PR, hospitality, etc., all back and forth within each other over the past 8 years. I’ve lost so many times within each realm for some reasons out of my control and others that I directly messed up from being green and not knowing the opportunity I had in my lap.
One time in particular is when, my first agency Boss Models New York basically closed and merged with Red Models. I was offered a contract and then they took it away for which I was given some lame excuses as to what exactly happened (mind you my tattoos have always been an issue with me and booking jobs). Every go-see I went too they didn’t see it for this country Black man.
Eventually I moved to a better mental space about it all and started to focus more on my social media presence with all the content that I had grown over the time.
BALDWIN | How much of race still plays a part in castings? If a challenge, how do you deal with it?
RBJ | Race is definitely a major part of castings, but I’m not sure what the future of castings will look like after the pandemic. I remember seeing my first real campaign casting for H&M Sports Collection. I walked in and saw so many beautiful people including the racially ambiguous. I sat and began to mentally analyze the room. Casting directors know what they want and are looking for usually.
It started to mess with my mind so much — waiting to see if I was selected after a job, and then came the depression of not landing the job. It was a never-ending emotional rollercoaster in my early years. I’ve gotten to the point now where I just don’t care. You want me or you don’t. Period. Another door will eventually fly open.
BALDWIN | With the holiday quickly approaching and a handsome boyfriend you’ve been with for years, what are some holiday gifts on your list? What brands should the readers be shopping?
RBJ | Shoutout to my Guap! Marco Maldonaldo! Here are a few of my holiday favorites — all Black-owned businesses:
Follow Randy on Instagram here.
