We all know the outdated stereotypes of “Love and Hip Hop” - women being called hoes and b*tches, men ranking points on how many women they can date simultaneously… and for most of us, if it’s not being pushed on your screen daily, chances are you’re exposed to real life drama at some point in your environment or circles.

My question for us is, at what point does the drama lose interest? At what point do we adamantly say to ourselves, actually, I deserve a healthier love?

This Valentines month I speak to Hip Hop artist, Founder of the Werehouse event space and just all-round dope human being Aewon Wolf on his relationship and the value of having a healthy relationship. Because somewhere in our growth and evolution (even as artists), we have to consciously make a decision to be better people, and choose better lovers. Switching the stereotype of black love and inter-gender dynamics from division back to unity. From brokenness back to wholeness. From despair back to flourishing.

Q1. How did you meet your partner?

Aewon Wolf: We met at a party when she was working for Red Bull as a sampler. I had previously worked for Red Bull and decided to introduce myself to her cause I didn't know her from the company and I obviously that she was sooooo beautiful that I had shoot my shot, unfortunately for me she was in a relationship and only saw the drunk kid I was at the time so she ghosted me for a while.

Q2. Growing up, how were you able to discern healthy relationships from toxic relationships?

Aewon Wolf: Despite popular belief I actually only had very few relationships in my life so I might not be the best person to answer this, but what I've learnt as the biggest red flag or green flag, is to watch how the person treats people who can't do anything for them. If they are mean and condescending or easily angered by others then it's just a matter of time they will be that way with you. The only way I discern a healthy relationship for me, is if the person can be honest with me even when I don't want to hear it and subsequently helps me be a better person.

Q3. How have your goals changed, now that you’re living more authentically?

Aewon Wolf: Life is simple and so are my goals. My only goal is to live and be love.

Q4. What would your advice be for other young people, when it comes to choosing a partner?

Aewon Wolf: I would say you can't truly love anyone without loving yourself, so if your with someone that doesn't allow you to take care of yourself and love yourself then save each other both the trouble

Q5. What key aspects/practices contribute to your overall sense of wellness and balance?

Aewon Wolf: Love is key to everything, it's the base and the yardstick of all my decisions and this base provides balance and guidance for all else.

I hope reading this has inspired you. Also if you haven’t listened to Aewon Wolf’s five track mood EP titled Vibes released last year (2022), check it out here https://open.spotify.com/album/7kZF3NyxpIXgyyKl72h9KR

Wishing you a happy Love Month. And remember to love yourself and be kind.