We recently had the chance to connect with Trenae Aka Elegance and have shared our conversation below.
Trenae, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is a normal day like for you right now?
A typical day for me involves managing multiple responsibilities, including attending meetings, planning future events for my businesses, working on music projects, supporting others, and completing key tasks and goals for clients.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Trenae, also known as Elegance. I’m a music artist and entrepreneur based in Detroit, with a passion for creativity, community, and personal expression. I own three businesses and co-own a fourth — a creative agency called CNTRL Creative (pronounced “Control Creative”).
My first business, TC’s Art Gallery, LLC, offers creative services such as logo design, t-shirt designs, websites, business cards, and more. I also provide organizational consulting and am often hired as a part-time project manager to help streamline operations for other businesses.
My second venture is Grind & Hustle Youth, LLC — a mentoring program designed for youth ages 15 and up. We focus on business etiquette, personal development, and offer a variety of classes and courses to prepare young people for success.
Third, I run TAGs Productions, a music production company that hosts music events and supports local artists and poets by connecting them with audio engineers, producers, videographers, photographers, and other creative professionals.
Outside of my entrepreneurial work, I’m also an independent music artist known as Elegance. My music is a reflection of who I am — an outlet to share my story, my testimony, and to connect with others through authentic sound and lyrics.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
My relationship with God and my journey of self-discovery have been the foundation of who I am today. I’ve experienced many challenges in my past that have shaped me into the person I’ve become. Through it all, God has been my greatest guide and Father — constantly present, even in my lowest moments. His presence has given me strength, direction, and the reassurance that I am never alone.
What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
Healing from PTSD caused by a past relationship was one of the most difficult journeys I’ve faced. It left deep emotional wounds that took time, prayer, and consistency to begin to heal. But through it all, God brought me peace in the midst of chaos, and helped me grow and prosper beyond the pain. Today, I feel called to help other women who may be going through similar experiences. I truly believe that no matter how heavy the burden, God can carry you through anything — and I encourage every woman to seek Him in their healing process.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
My mother is a hardworking, dedicated woman — and someone I truly admire. She embodies strength, grace, and resilience, and has played a huge role in shaping the woman I am today. As a strong Black woman, she has always led by example: showing up, working hard, and putting others’ safety and well-being first. Her character is grounded in compassion, loyalty, and perseverance, and those are values I carry with me every day. I strive to make her proud, knowing she’s always watching, cheering me on, and being the first one in the crowd at my shows or events. No matter what I’m pursuing, she’s consistently there — supporting me, encouraging me, and reminding me of the power of unwavering love and presence.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
I would learn to let go of the “would’ve, could’ve, should’ve” mindset and simply embrace the present — to take action, explore more, and genuinely experience life as it unfolds. Traveling and discovering new places brings me so much joy, and I want to do more of that — freely, intentionally, and hopefully alongside the person I choose to share my life with. I’m seeking newness, not perfection. Because life will always have its ups and downs, but with the right mindset, it can still be a vibrant, meaningful journey filled with growth, love, and purpose.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tagsproductions.net/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elegancetheartist/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4tGiAjwpJzekju9_d5nRGQ
Image Credits
Trenae Curry, Sharlene Burris, and DaeQJuan Jones
