In the heart of New York City, where the relentless pursuit of art in its myriad forms converges, Casey Hopkins embarked on a journey that would take him from the strings of his guitar to the cameras of the digital realm.

With an art school background fueling his creative fires, Casey's initial dream was simple yet audacious: to make it as a guitarist in the city that never sleeps.

Little did he know, his path would lead to the formation of The Advertisers, a band that would not only become a staple in the New York music scene but also tour extensively, carving out a name for themselves in the paths of rock history.

From Art School to the Big Apple: The Birth of The Advertisers

Casey's transition from an art school environment to the bustling streets of New York was a testament to his adaptability and artistic drive. The city, with its relentless pace and diverse cultural landscape, became the perfect incubator for his musical aspirations.

It was here that The Advertisers came to life, a band that would capture the essence of the city's gritty and raw energy.

Their music was a reflection of Casey's writing and guitar playing—a blend of ambition, passion, and the unfiltered expression of the city's soul.

The Advertisers: A Symphony of Grit and Melody

As The Advertisers gained momentum, Casey found himself at the epicenter of a musical odyssey.

The band's extensive tours were not just about sharing music but also about the exchange of cultural narratives and pure passion, the kind that can only be told through the universal language of melody and rhythm.

Their performances were more than concerts; they were explosions of storytelling, where each note played was a word in their collective narrative.

A Pivot to the Visual: Embracing Change in the Face of Adversity

When the world was brought to a standstill by the pandemic, Casey, like many artists, found himself in a maelstrom of uncertainty.

The stages went dark, and the crowds dissipated, leaving a silence that was both deafening and introspective.

It was during this time that Casey turned to photography and videography, not just as a pastime but as a new canvas for his creativity.

His foray into the visual arts became a conduit for expression when the music venues remained closed.

Crafting Visual Narratives: The Social Media Epoch

Casey's deep dive into photo and video was more than a mere pivot; it was an expansion of his artistic repertoire.

This newfound passion led him to an unexpected role as a social media manager for the legendary wrestler Mick Foley.

Here, Casey applied his artistic sensibilities to the digital sphere, crafting narratives that resonated with fans across the globe.

His approach was not to chase virality but to create content with substance, content that would endure beyond the ephemeral trends of social media.

Reflections on Social Media: Casey's Candid Conversation

In a candid conversation, Casey shared his nuanced views on social media.

He acknowledged its power as a tool for connection and engagement but remained wary of its potential to distort the creative process.

For Casey, social media should not dictate the art but serve as a platform to amplify authentic creations.

He spoke of the importance of giving oneself permission to create, to step beyond the confines of algorithms and expectations, and to simply express one's artistic truth.

Advice for Future Creators: The Hopkins Doctrine

Casey's advice to future creators is rooted in his own experiences—embrace the journey, take creative risks, and prioritize the art over the accolade.

He encourages creators to find their voice by allowing themselves the freedom to experiment, to fail, and to learn from every endeavor.

His doctrine is one of perseverance, urging artists to remain true to their vision even when faced with the daunting tides of digital conformity.