Exclusive | Rapper Princeton Marcellis Talks His Upcoming Mixtape 'By Any Means'
Dallas rapper, Princeton Marcellis talks keeping God 1st, inspiring people through music, and his upcoming mixtape, By Any Means, in an exclusive interview! Check it out here!
“My goal is not to be celebrity, but a servant. Most celebrities want the limelight and try to hide their failures and shortcomings, but I think a servant wants the limelight only so they can point it back to the One who truly deserves it, and that’s God.”
By: Omar Cook
This week's "Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is Dallas rapper, Princeton Marcellis! This artist has a goal to inspire his listeners and help them improve their lives by telling stories of his own struggles and success. Princeton Marcellis has a dope flow mixed with real messages in his songs and is definitely an artist that needs to be in your playlist. He began to pursue music seriously while attending the University of North Texas and attending open mic nights. His persistence and talent eventually landed him in opportunity to be a hype man for artists such as Lecrae and Tedashii.
Princeton Marcellis - Promise (Official Music Video)
We talked with Princeton Marcellis in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
How long have you been making music and how did you get started?
Princeton Marcellis: I’ve been rapping since I was about 5 or 6 years old. I remember my parents buying my older brother a Casio piano that had a couple of Beethoven presets on it such as the 5th Symphony. One day I took our karaoke machine which allowed me to record on a cassette tape, and I took the mic and put it to the piano speaker so it could record the music from the piano. I began freestyling haha. Grant it, I wasn’t good at all yet, but it also came to me naturally to do that. My parents, especially my dad, always had music playing throughout our home and in the car and I know it heavily influenced me to fall in love with hip hop.
From there, I continued to make music that I would pass out to some of the homies at school. At 16, I gave my life to Christ, which not only awakened my life purpose but also gave my music more purpose. However, at the time I was also really focused and passionate about basketball, and wanted to hoop at a Division I school to make it to the NBA. Needless to say, that didn’t work out. Because of that, I started taking music more seriously at the University of North Texas. Open mic shows eventually turned into free shows, and free shows eventually turned into paid shows. I dropped a mixtape on Datpiff and Noisetrade called Excuse The Explicitness which spread way more than I imagined it would when creating the project. Before I know it, I’m a hype man for Lecrae and Tedashii of Reach Records performing in front of thousands almost every show. This helped me to develop my stage presence more, and get used to being in front of so many people. Now I’m focused only on my own brand and finishing my project entitled, By Any Means.
Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who are your favorite musicians?
Princeton Marcellis: My biggest influence has to first start with my family. My mom and dad. I have so much love and respect for them to be able to teach and provide for my brother and I, even with our financial circumstances. Now that I’m older, I truly appreciate the hard work and foundation they gave me, along with the musical influences they bestowed on me.
In regards to artists that are my biggest influence, I would have to say 2Pac, J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar, Notorious BIG, Kanye West, Jay Z, and Eminem. They’ve helped me in my own life and personal troubles, as well as challenged my pen game and craft. These are rappers that I’ve studied the most over the years in order to develop my own voice.
What artists would you like to collaborate with and why?
Princeton Marcellis: There’s so many I would love to collaborate with! Any Dreamville or TDE artist would be dope. I would love to collaborate with Cole, Kendrick Lamar, Kanye, Chance the Rapper, and many others. I like doing collaborations that would make sense message wise and brand wise, and I think I align most with these type of artists.
What do you feel is your best song/project ever released and why?
Princeton Marcellis: My best songs I have out right now are my latest singles “You Can Make It” and “Thank God Ballad”, as well as my song “Heart To Serve”. I think these songs really gave me a great direction with what I want to do with my music now, and they have given me the biggest buzz. The music video to “Heart To Serve” was predominantly shot in Guatemala and won 6 Telly Awards. This was a theme song for a Non-Profit Organization, and I was able to perform this song in Johannesburg, South Africa, Rome, and Hong Kong. Each one of these shows had more than 10,000 people in attendance!
What projects can we look forward to in the near future?
Princeton Marcellis: Right now I’m working on a mixtape called By Any Means, and soon after that I will begin working on my debut album. I’m very excited about that.
Princeton Marcellis - You Can Make It (Official Audio)
How do you generate new ideas for your music?
Princeon Marcellis: First and foremost my story and my life experiences, as well as others’. God is my biggest inspiration, and just living life because my music is about real life, real pain, and real hope. Other than that, I’m always checking out new music to spur on creativity.
What motivates you and how do you define success?
Princeton Marcellis: God, family, and friends. Things that truly matter is what motivates me. Most people think that chasing money, power, women, and things will make them successful. Most people die and realize that their success ladder was leaning on the wrong wall the whole time. Success is not what I do compared to what other people do, it's how much I do compared to what God created me to do.
How do you describe your music to people and what separates you from other artists in your genre?
Princeon Marcellis: I describe my music as being lyrical and about real life, yet inspirational and motivational. What separates me from other artists is my story and voice.
Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?
Princeton Marcellis: I don’t believe there is a formula for being a successful artist, because I don’t believe success is overnight. You have to be willing to do the things other people are not willing to do, and do it consistently. So there’t not an exact formula, but there are competencies that a successful artist possesses. A huge thing every successful artist has never done is quit.
Who is your greatest inspiration?
Princeton Marcellis: God is my greatest inspiration. The fact that he would come and save His people from what we deserve is mind blowing, because of unfathomable amount of love it takes. This is what pushes me to love people so much, because of God’s love for me.
In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?
Princeton Marcellis: In opinion, I would say J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar, and Kanye West. I think they possess everything a great rapper should have: storytelling, lyrics, punchlines, metaphors, similes, and imagery over solid production. I actually made a song called Make Cole Proud, in which I rapped over the same beat of Let Nas Down. Nas also has a version called Made Nas Proud. I put them all together on youtube as one video, you should peep it.
Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?
Princeton Marcellis: I think sadness and passion dominates my music right now, only because that’s the season of life I’m in. Don’t get me wrong, my energy is always joyous and positive, but when I think about a lot of the things I’ve been through these past couple of years, it would be hard to say that sadness doesn’t come over me. However, the sadness leads me to keep pushing, instead of throwing in the towel. In this game of life I gotta get around the board as many times as I can. Life is something that I look at and cry at sometimes, I laugh at sometimes, etc. You try to come up and get pulled back 5 steps and then you come back up and get pulled back 18 steps. But really there’s a good balance of emotions on this upcoming project.
What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
Princeton Marcellis: So many. From working jobs that I really don’t want to work, to not being able to travel as much like some of my friends do, to not buying shoes or clothes that I want, etc. Because I need that money to create and for the craft. I’ve sacrificed so much time and money to keep growing in this, that I know most people wouldn’t do.
What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?
Princeton Marcellis: I think the whole thing excites me, from writing the lyrics to mixing and mastering and hearing the finished product. If there’s any aspect that discourages me, it’s all of the business side of music. Sometimes I wish that side didn’t exist haha.
Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?
Princeton Marcellis: I’ve always hated this question, because I don’t know if I’ll be here tomorrow. So if God allows me to live another 10 years, I see myself as one of the greats because of how many lives I’ve impacted and helped.
What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?
Princeton Marcellis: Find your voice, take the craft seriously, and don’t quit.
Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your music?
Princeton Marcellis: I’m always grateful for every listener and follower on social media, and always appreciative when someone shares my music with their network of people who hasn’t heard of me. My goal is not to be celebrity, but a servant. Most celebrities want the limelight and try to hide their failures and shortcomings, but I think a servant wants the limelight only so they can point it back to the One who truly deserves it, and that’s God. Therefore, I don’t mind exposing my own faults throughout my story, because I believe my story will hopefully help someone else.
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Exclusive | Rapper ZimMill Talks Focusing on His Own Sound and Identity
Chicago rapper, ZimMill, discusses focusing on establishing his own sound and identity and his upcoming project “Millionaire Mindsets EP” in an exclusive interview!
“To quote Nip, ‘Demonstration speaks louder than conversation’. . So just tap in & find out”
By: Omar Cook
This week's "Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is Chicago rapper ZimMill! Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, ZimMill began his music pursuit after moving to Jacksonville, Florida at the age of 19. This artist gives a unique perspective in his music which he pulls from life’s experiences, and he’s fully unfiltered in expressing every single bit of it.
ZimMill brings a dope flow with raw lyrics that and you can hear bits of influences from Nipsey Hussle and G-Herbo in his tracks. After listening to his studio freestyles on youtube, you will have no choice but to root for him. ZimmMil is a young artist that’s definitely on the rise and should be on your radar for the future!
ZimMill - Sing About Me Freestyle (Kendrick Lamar)
We talked with ZimMill in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
How long have you been making music and how did you get started?
About 3 years. My 1st time recording was in 2017. I kinda stumbled into being an artist really. I always had a super heavy passion for music. But it was as a consumer, never from an artist standpoint. I’d be with a bunch of my homies smoking weed and them niggas would always turn on instrumentals and freestyle. I never rapped. I’d just chill and listen and hype them up. But one day, they basically forced me to hop in. I caught a vibe and fell in love with it.
Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who are your favorite musicians?
My favorite artists are Nipsey Hussle, 2Pac, G Herbo, Kendrick, Jay-Z, Meek, J Cole, Curren$y, there’s a few more I’d name too. Erykah Badu is in there for sure. I can go on and on. These are also the ones I’m most influenced by. Outside of just the music, I try to be a student of the game and learn from other people’s journeys. And I connect to all of these people’s storylines.
What artists would you like to collaborate with and why?
I don’t mean for this to come off vain or arrogant or nothing like that at all, but I’m not even concerned with collaboration right now. I’m focused on fully establishing my own sound and identity. But down the line, if life allows it, I’d like to work with Roddy Ricch & SZA. Two unique artists that I think are very versatile and great at creating a feel. My dream feature is a Hov verse though.
What do you feel is your best song/project ever released and why?
Right now I’d say my “Sing About Me” freestyle. It’s over one of Kendrick Lamar’s classic tracks. It holds a special place for me. I ain’t waste a line on that. I was fully vulnerable and pure and every single bar was a statement that I can stand on 100%.
What projects can we look forward to in the near future?
There’s a podcast called “Millionaire Mindsets” by a young couple Xavier Miller & Deanna Kent. It was named one of the top 50 podcasts for entrepreneurs. I got a project in conjunction with them that will be dropping in June. “Millionaire Mindsets EP”. I call it theme music for the ambitious. If you’re trying to get your bag right and get your mind right, lock in with this project. Other than that, I’ll continue having content release regularly on my YouTube channel.
How do you generate new ideas for your music?
I could be walking down the street and some shit will randomly pop up in my head and I jot it down. Or I might brainstorm for a while. Or I might just go in off however I’m feeling/thinking in the moment. It always varies. But honestly, most times, instrumentals guide me. I hear a beat, and that beat will send the right words or emotions to me. And I’ll go from there.
ZimMill - Studio Freestyles 5 (Meek Mill/Roddy Ricch - Letter To Nipsey)
What motivates you and how do you define success?
I’m motivated by potential. The vision of meeting my potential and changing me and my people’s lives is the heaviest motivational factor. We come from a busy city. A lot of people that we know, see death or prison at a young age. It might sound a little weird, but that’s motivational to me. Motivation to live this life to the fullest. Success is relative. I feel like we usually just define success as acquiring money or status, but I define it as meeting an objective. Bottom line. Whatever vision or target you aspire towards, whether financially or physically or spiritually or whatever. If you hit that target, that’s success. Success is fulfillment.
How do you describe your music to people and what separates you from other artists in your genre?
I call it life music. Human music. Cause I feel like it’s relatable to almost anybody. From the street nigga, to the college student, to the single mother working to make ends meet. I think that anybody can connect to it. And I’m just me and that’s what separates myself. I noticed that you don’t even have to TRY to separate yourself or stand out. Because we’re all genuinely unique already. So if you just tap into yourself, and fully embrace that truth, you’ll naturally stick out and separate yourself.
Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?
Most definitely. I believe the formula boils down to being authentic, making high-quality music and building a fanbase that believes in you. And being relentless with your grind. It’ll take time and consistency but shit will eventually start to connect for you if you stick to that script. I believe in that to the fullest.
Who is your greatest inspiration?
In my personal life, it’s my two older brothers. They’ve always been respectable guys that I looked up to in many ways. As far as celebrities, Nip Hussle, Muhammad Ali and Pac. Each for their own unique reason, but I’d say those three for sure.
In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?
Most influential: I got Drake, Young Thug, and Future. . With most rappers that you hear nowadays, you can spot some influence by one of those 3 artists in their sound. I might have a Chicago bias but I gotta mention Chief Keef too. People sleep on Sosa’s impact. Keef has a lot to do with the current sound of hip-hop being as it is. And for most successful, I can’t really say bro. Like I said earlier it’s all relative. I gotta know their exact intentions in order to know how successful they are.
Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?
Passion. It may be joyful in one moment, then soulful or aggressive in another moment, but its always passionate. I’d throw optimistic in there as well, if that can count as an emotion.
ZimMill - Studio Freestyles 6 (Polo G - Go Stupid, Meek Mill - Oodles & Noodles Baby)
What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
I’m doing a lot to make my vision a reality but I don’t really view any of it as a sacrifice for real. From late nights and early mornings, to constant studio investments, to losing certain relationships, to whatever. I just see it as part of the game. It’s what the mission demands. I’m not sacrificing anything because I’m doing exactly what I want to do.
What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?
I wouldn’t say anything really discourages me. I embrace it all. I’m most excited by seeing the outcome though. Easy answer. I just be excited to see what I can turn out. It’s always dope to surprise myself or impress myself in the end, cause I’m my own biggest critic.
Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?
I see myself in a position that I’m proud of. I see myself generating millions through multiple different avenues. I see myself with an established music career, traveling the globe, and pushing a energy that connects and impacts people in a good way.
What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?
Be authentic and stay patient. When you’re being authentic, you attract the people & situations that were meant for you. And that’s the top priority. You don’t want to attract shit that isn’t genuine to you, because that shit won’t be sustainable. And at the end of the day, It’s about longevity. Great things don’t happen overnight. Stay dedicated to your mission & let it play out.
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Exclusive | Rapper Navelle Hice is Spreading the Message of Hope Through Hip-Hop
Pennsylvania rapper, Navelle Hice, also known as “The Hopeman”, talks spreading the message of hope through his music, overcoming a a life altering event, and building his empire in an exclusive interview! Check it out here!
“I want people to know that no matter your race, your upbringing or where you come from, there is a common ground that we can all find to be able to relate to one another. My music can be instrumental in helping others get through difficult times in their lives as well as good times.”
By: Omar Cook
This week's "Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is Pennsylvania rapper, Navelle Hice! Hice is an independent hip-hop artist and songwriter, hailing from Chester, Pennsylvania. Formerly known as the artist “Young Chief” and “Chiefy”, Navelle Hice has an extensive music resume! Navelle has made two appearances on BET's 106 & Park, performed on the Apollo stage, a Revolt TV appearance, a Daddy’s House Studios appearance, and a BET Music Matters performance as well as countless others across the country!
Navelle started Team Living Proof LLC in 2010 shortly after a life altering event, that could have left him dead or paralyzed. A few years later in 2015, Navelle made the decision to relocate to Atlanta, Georgia to further his career. After this move, Navelle saw the need to rebrand himself. As a part of this process, he dropped his former stage name as well as the style and direction of his music. Since this time, Navelle has been rolling with accomplishments. He released his first album, "Faith, Hope & Love" and had a single featured on Radio One 102.5 FM
In early 2016, Navelle won three consecutive weeks on Atlanta’s City Takers “Street Heat” radio show (91.5 FM). Navelle released his sophomore album in fall of 2016 "The Hopeman" and won a GCA award in Atlanta for “Best Hip-Hop” artist. He was also one of the top 5 finalists for PHL Live Center Stage in Philadelphia. Navelle had the opportunity to attend the SXSW Music Festival as an official showcasing artist, as well as make appearances on the live Sway in the Morning Show for several years.
Navelle's next project, "Hopeman 2: Make America Hope Again" was released in early 2017. He was featured on Atlanta’s Hot 107.9 FM radio show, and graced the stage at the 2018 Birthday Bash Block Party cypher. While anticipating the arrival of his first child, he decided to take a break from touring. During this hiatus, Navelle began a new video series, #SundaySamples (2018). A new video was released every Sunday for 30 weeks. His most recent project, "Hopeman 3" was released in December 2018. More recently, Navelle appeared on High Off Life TV and performed a freestyle that gathered over 100k views. In October of 2019, Navelle was a featured guest on the Sway In The Morning Friday Fire Cypher, and did a freestyle that went viral! In one month the video has racked up over 2 million views and has been spread around the world!
Navelle continues to perform and spread his message of "HOPE". Even so, he's now known as “The Hopeman” everywhere he goes.
“I don’t believe my music is limited to one type of music genre. I believe the message in my music will reach across genre lines. I continue to strive to be an inspiration to this generation and the world of hip-hop. I'll allow those that listen, define what that means to them.”
SWAY IN THE MORNING | FRIDAY FIRE CYPHER: NAVELLE HICE
We talked with Navelle Hice in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
How long have you been making music and how did you get started?
Navelle Hice: I’ve been making music since elementary school. It was in the 5th grade that my music teacher gave us a project to write a song, and I’ve been creating music since that time.
Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who are your favorite musicians?
Navelle Hice: At the time I was introduced to hip hop, I became intrigued with certain movements more than an individual artist. Some of those early influences were Roc-A-Fella, No Limit Soldiers, Ruff Rydas, Cash Money Records, Bad Boys & St Lunatics etc.
What artists would you like to collaborate with and why?
Navelle Hice: If I had a choice, I would love to collaborate with Jay Z, Kanye West, J Cole, Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Tory Lanez, just to name a few. I chose these artists mainly because they speak truth through their art.
What do you feel is your best song/project ever released and why?
Navelle Hice: I believe Hopeman III is my best project to date. I feel the music in this project is relevant for today’s time and the project itself is timeless. Hopeman III is an official introduction to who I am as an artist as well as who I am personally.
Navelle Hice - For The City (Official Video)
What projects can we look forward to in the near future?
Navelle Hice: You can look forward to some great music with impactful content in 2020.
How do you generate new ideas for your music?
Navelle Hice: My music is typically generated from life experiences. I try to put a spotlight on things that I personally go through or experience as well as things that may be relatable to others.
What motivates you and how do you define success?
Navelle Hice: I strongly feel that my motivation is found in my family and knowing that I am fulfilling the purpose that is destined for me. My definition of success is becoming the person God created you to be and making your dream a reality.
How do you describe your music to people and what separates you from other artists in your genre?
Navelle Hice: I would describe my music as relatable and genuine. I believe what separates me from other artists is that my music is not geared to one specific audience or genre. My story is unique as it reflects my character, staying true to who I am and not trying to fit into standards set by others.
Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?
Navelle Hice: I really don’t believe there is a specific formula to being a successful artist. Everyone has a different journey, what may work for one may not work for another. What I can say is that faith, hard work and dedication will pay off, it’s just a matter of timing.
Navelle Hice - My, My, My #SundaySamples (Week 26)
Who is your greatest inspiration?
Navelle Hice: I would say that God is my greatest inspiration, his unwavering love for me even in my imperfections is mind blowing. He’s always there and I recognize when he speaks to me though people.
In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?
Navelle Hice: I would have to say Jay-Z because of the moves he makes and all that he’s accomplished in and out of the music arena.
Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?
Navelle Hice: Oh, most definitely passion! I believe music that is driven by passion is some of the best music, others can sense that passion as they listen, no matter good or bad.
Navelle Hice - Farewell #SundaySamples (Week 30)
What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
Navelle Hice: I have had to make many sacrifices through the years of making my dream become a reality. From financial to my own personal comfort. One of the biggest sacrifices to date was taking a leap of faith some years back, quitting my job and moving from my hometown( Chester, PA) and relocated to Atlanta, GA, leaving all of my family and loved ones, leaving everything that was familiar and coming to a place that was unfamiliar and where I knew no one.
What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?
Navelle Hice: I would have to say trying new things excite me the most during the process. Not being afraid of trying something different, either with a new beat selection, a new flow or new concepts. To take what I envisioned in my head and seeing the outcome become reality is pretty exciting. What could become the most discouraging thing is knowing how close you are, but, not knowing when your time will come.
Navelle Hice - Know The Vibes #SundaySamples (Week 28)
Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?
Navelle Hice: Wow, in 10 years, I would like to see most of my dreams realized. I see myself building an empire with multiple businesses as well as making a huge impact in the music industry and communities around the world.
What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?
Navelle Hice: I would tell other artists to never compromise their integrity, believe in yourself first and foremost even if no one else does. Stay true to who they are, trust that God will open the right door at the right time and never ever give up, it will happen!
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Exclusive | Singer B.K. Habermehl Talks The Release of Her Debut Single "Owe Me That"
Los Angeles singer, B.K. Habermehl talks the release of her debut single "Owe Me That", recording her debut EP, and setting her sights on the Grammys in an exclusive interview! Check it out here!
“I write everything from the heart, and truly hope people can commune with me through audio. Also.. stream and download my new single, “Owe Me That”!!”
By: Omar Cook
This week's "Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is Los Angeles singer, B.K. Habermehl! B.K. Habermehl is also a singer, songwriter, pianist, producer and actress so you cant just put her talents into a box. She credits her music style to influences such as Erykah Badu and Astrud Gilberto, and of course her own self. She received first acting gig at 8 years old, when she was a member of Madison, Wisconsin’s Young Shakespeare Players. This was just the beginning of her involvement in a wide variety of choirs, plays, and musicals, culminating in her admission to New York University.
At NYU, B.K. created her own major studying music and Africana studies, and named it “The Self Sufficient Recording Artist and the African Diaspora.” After graduation she moved back to her home base of L.A., and began taking classes with Faline England at Diana Castle’s Imagined Life Acting Studio, as well as working with Grammy nominated talents such as Akon. She currently is recording her debut EP and performs her original music throughout the Los Angeles metropolitan area.
B.K. Habermehl - Owe Me That
We talked with B.K. Habermehl in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
QUESTION: How long have you been making music and how did you get started?
B.K. Habermehl: I have been singing since I popped out the womb, but I first started writing my own original songs when I was 11 or 12. My mom had an old keyboard that was gathering dust in the garage, so I asked one day if I could relocate it to my room! I covered it in Harry Potter stickers and started playing chords by ear and finding melodies to sing on top of them. Been writing tunes ever since!
QUESTION: Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who are your favorite musicians?
B.K. Habermehl: Vocally, Toni Braxton and Erykah Badu are huge influences to me, because they opened my mind to exploring various timbres and ranges in my voice. I'd say my favorite musician is definitely Cory Henry, he is absolutely sickening on keys.
QUESTION: What artists would you like to collaborate with and why?
B.K. Habermehl: Missy Elliott would be a dream to collaborate with, because she is just such a creative powerhouse. Also, Erykah, because she is MUVA.
QUESTION: What do you feel is your best song/project ever released and why?
B.K. Habermehl: I'm really excited about my debut single, "Owe Me That"! It's a love letter I wrote to myself to help me stop seeking my worth externally. Sonically I think it bops, and lyrically I think everyone could relate to it. You can find it on all platforms!
QUESTION: What projects can we look forward to in the near future?
B.K. Habermehl: I have some singles in the pipeline over the next couple months, as well as a project coming out in the next year!
QUESTION: How do you generate new ideas for your music?
B.K. Habermehl: All sorts of things can spark my ideas for music. Sometimes I might hear a particularly poetic phrase.. just yesterday I read the phrase "liquid alarm" in Richard Wright's Black Boy that immediately inspired me. Other times it will be situational or emotional, fools making me giddy, fools letting me down, or me being a fool and putting my own self through it.
QUESTION: What motivates you and how do you define success?
B.K. Habermehl: I'm most motivated by what I feel is the power of my potential. I don't want to let myself down. There are different ways to gauge success, but I mostly would define it by having a positive impact with my art and the influence to be able to push the cultural needle. And also I'd like some shmonies.. ain't gotta be Jay-Z but I would definitely feel successful if I was able to be financially self-sufficient purely through my art.
QUESTION: How do you describe your music to people and what separates you from other artists in your genre?
B.K. Habermehl: I usually say that my music is jazzy pop with a touch of soul, and what separates me is that I am one of one! I am an emotive and unique being.. the pastel pianist princess. But I don't mind comparisons or similarities with my contemporaries, combined we can all make an awesome sonic tapestry.
B.K. Habermehl - "Take Your Leave" LIVE
QUESTION: Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?
B.K. Habermehl: The biggest variable in the success formula is perseverance. I think that feeling like a failure and getting to the brink of giving up is almost required. I can't think of any artist who hasn't felt that struggle at some point. The stardom comes in how you push through it.
QUESTION: Who is your greatest inspiration?
B.K. Habermehl: My mom, Dr. Deirdre Habermehl. She has always gone above and beyond for me and I absolutely cannot wait to repay her in every way I can possibly conceive. She's already pre-ordered a fancy whip, so I gotta get my hustle on!
QUESTION: In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?
B.K. Habermehl: I think that influence and success don't always go hand in hand, depending on your definition of success. Some of the artists who have set the creative template for music today don't always enjoy the monetary rewards that more commercial artists get. But if I had to pick one artist that covers both, I would say Drake. He's got every rapper singing, and anything he drops is guaranteed to blow.
QUESTION: Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?
B.K. Habermehl: This is hard to pinpoint, but I feel like the visualization of the emotions my music has right now is the sunshine after the rain. Acknowledging and giving space for my pain, and then peeking out beyond the clouds. Joy can feel fleeting sometimes, but sadness is just as temporary too. I'm just trying to navigate and express my journey through both. But I'm a Cancer too.. so you know I be crying.
QUESTION: What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
B.K. Habermehl: Monetarily, I'm definitely not as balling as I could have been had I went to law school or something similar after college. But it's not really a sacrifice to me, because I know this is what I'm meant to be doing.
QUESTION: What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?
B.K. Habermehl: I get absolutely geek hype when I write a melody that I just KNOW is hitting. The tunes themselves are thrilling, but the polishing and promotion process can definitely be tedious at times.
QUESTION: Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?
B.K. Habermehl: As the illustrious Raven Symone once said in her titular role on "That's So Raven"... Imma be grabbin' Grammys!!
QUESTION: What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?
B.K. Habermehl: Whew chile. First of all, brace yourself. Don't fall head over heels for every opportunity that comes your way. But at the same time, do everything you can to believe fully in yourself and your path. Also don't burn any bridges!! The industry is a lot smaller than it looks
LINKS:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/64QWRxLk9KP6yTX9NK7COY
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/b-k-habermehl/1476159193
Tidal: https://tidal.com/browse/track/115482963
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2HRny_I2-BE_CNNKtLh6uw
Soundcloud: soundcloud.com/bkhabermehl
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Exclusive | T. Mason Talks the Release of His Sophomore Project 'Got Home Late'
Georgia rapper, T. Mason, talks the release of his sophomore LP, Got Home Late and using his voice to bring changes to society in an exclusive interview! Check it out here!
By: Omar Cook
This week's "Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is Georgia rapper, T. Mason! Tyler Anthony Mason, known professionally as T. Mason, is a rapper and songwriter out of Decatur, Georgia. T. Mason began making music as a teenager and since then, Mason has opened up for acts B.o.B, Future, EarthGang and J.I.D. In 2016, Mason gathered a following behind two of his hit singles “Faded” and “Money Come n’ Go”. After signing with independent record label, All Black Congress, Mason dropped his debut project, The T. Mason EP in 2017.
Not long after his EP release, Mason’s notoriety continued to grow securing over 100,000 streams online. Mason has been noted as an MC with a “prominent voice” by Creative Loafing Magazine and a “progressive artists with a not-so-hidden agenda”. With only one project in Mason’s discography, fans grow in anticipation for the release of his Sophomore LP, Got Home Late releasing summer 2019. Check this artist out as he is definitely up and coming!
T. Mason - Money Come N' Go
We talked with T. Mason in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
QUESTION: How long have you been making music and how did you get started?
T. Mason: I’ve been making music since about 16. I got started by freestyling at the lunch table back in 10th grade with my label mate, Phonic. After a while, people all knew we did music. That is how I ended up meeting my engineers. They were in a grade higher than I was but still gave me a place to record and hone my craft.
QUESTION: Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who are your favorite musicians?
T. Mason: To be real R&B is one of my biggest influences. My Dad is from Detroit, so every time we took a road trip up there he would keep about 8 big cases of CD’s. Before then, the only rap I listened to was Biggie, Kanye, Common and Jay Z. Other than that, I just knew the mainstream songs that everyone else knew on the radio. I was a kid though so I didn’t understand all the lyrics. I didn’t become a fan of rap until I reached the end of middle school and early high school. That is when I got deep into Outkast, Good Mob and 90’s rap. I got more serious with music after hearing some of the underground artist that were out at the time like Wiz , Asap Rocky, Drake, Kendrick, J. Cole, Big Krit, Dom Kennedy, etc.
QUESTION: What artists would you like to collaborate with and why?
T. Mason: If I could collaborate with an artist it would be Cee-lo . Cee-lo is just crazy to me. Especially to see how much his artsy evolved throughout his career. I would also go for artists like The Internet, Jorga Smith, Daniel Caesar, SiR, etc. Really anyone who would complement my style of hip-hop. I wouldn’t mind collaborating with some rappers, but I am a big fan of our generations’ singers. If I could choose one overall though, I would have done a song with Marvin Gaye or someone like that.
QUESTION: What do you feel is your best song ever released and why?
T. Mason: I believe Money come N’ Go is my best-released song. I love how it incorporates two different vibes in one. The idea was to mesh two different beats together but deliver one cohesive message. The song itself hones in on the reality that we all face. There is more than enough times when money leaves our pockets in an instant. Most of the times from things we can’t control like bills and other setbacks. People always feel like they don’t have many options in life. That’s why I ended the last line of the first verse with “There ain’t no real reason why we shoot and steal. We all rob gotta pay the bills”
QUESTION: How do you generate new ideas for your music?
T. Mason: It usually involves me getting out to enjoy life once in a while. Many times, I grab lyrics from actual events or emotions that were important at one point in my life. Whether that’s a past relationship or a current event. I’m always thinking of ideas so when one pops up I just write it down in my phone.
QUESTION: What motivates you and how do you define success?
T. Mason: My family is my biggest motivation and forever will be. They encourage and support the music so much that it’s truly a blessing. Many people don’t have the full support from their parents. This journey is not practical, and it doesn’t support you consistently. For that reason, many look down on it. I define success as waking up every day doing what I love without having to struggle for my needs. Sure there’s plenty I want in life, but more than anything I want peace of mind.
QUESTION: How do you describe your music to people?
T. Mason: Smooth and conscious or consciously smooth idk lol. I describe it as a vibe. An experience. It’s like riding a wave. There is depth to it.
QUESTION: Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?
T. Mason: Now there are many different ways to become a successful artist. Whether that’s being authentic or trolling. I don’t believe that there is a set formula but if there was it would be Faith, consistency and confidence.
QUESTION: Who is your greatest inspiration?
T. Mason: My greatest inspiration are the people who came before me. Not just artists, but African Americans who fought and paved the way for everything I can do today. Too many to name, but everyone who has contributed to pushing hip-hop or our culture is a major inspiration to me. People back then made the impossible happen. It all helped shift and evolve change. I want to use my voice to be a part of something like that.
QUESTION: In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?
T. Mason: I would put Kendrick, Drake, and J. Cole up there. What is different about them from many other artist is that these three individuals became the most successful artist off being conscious and personal. That’s not something anyone can do. Especially in an era where music is more watered down then its ever been.
QUESTION: Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?
T. Mason: My music is very vibey. It’s also nostalgic in the sense that it can remind you of experiences that are heart-warming, or the exact opposite. I speak about my actual experiences so just like anyone’s life it’s a mixture between highs and lows. However, I would like to think my music is predominately driven by passion.
QUESTION: What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
T. Mason: I have lost relationships with friends and significant others. I have gotten into disagreements with family and other people’s disapproval of my path. I have cut a lot of things off to protect my energy and remain undistracted. However, I feel that comes with chasing any “dream.”
QUESTION: What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?
T. Mason: I’ll start with the bad haha. What’s discouraging is finding out that this journey will take longer than I initially intended.. As an independent artist, we all meet similar obstacles. Finances can become a problem because it’s essential when funding everything you need for a release. With financial issues comes less time because you need to find work. Not being paid well for my art is also something that can be disappointing. However.. It is the random listeners who reach out to me after listening to my music that motivates me. Or the times when someone stops me after a performance to give me words of encouragement. There’s nothing better than fighting for something you believe in. The tears and disappointment just make the good times and accomplishments that much better.
QUESTION: Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?
T. Mason: I see myself as a successful entrepreneur more than just an artist. I believe that I am here to make dope sounds, but to also help people through music. I’m real passionate about other things like fashion, film, and philanthropy. My idea of success is simply taking care of my family while having the resources to help others in needs.
QUESTION: What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?
T. Mason: NEVER give up. Those who do music start doing it because they think its easy and lucrative. However, things start to look different when rapping as a hobby doesn’t pay the bills every month. Keeping the balance between your dreams and reality is the hardest thing about this. Not everybody makes it in the industry. Chasing a dream can become very dark in these times so if you do not have a passion or purpose you will quit 9 times out of 10. Stay persistent but do it all for the right reasons and you’ll be ok.
QUESTION: Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your music?
T. Mason: I’m grateful for those who resonated with my last body of work. This time around, my music has grown in many ways. The sophomore project dropping this summer will give listeners a much closer look inside T. Mason and the layers of his music. Can’t wait to share it with you guys.
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Exclusive | Maui Max Talks His Motivation To Change Lives Through Music
East Coast rapper, Maui Max talks using his music to change lives and setting a blueprint for his kids in exclusive interview! Check it out here!
“Everything I say in my music are real emotions and things that I go through whether it’s a hype song or something you can just ride to. You never have to worry about me fabricating anything or being something i’m not; I give you the good and the bad.”
By: Omar Cook
This week's "Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is East Coast rapper, Maui Max! This 25 year old artist was born in Newark, New Jersey but now resides in Atlanta, Georgia. We’ve interviewed a lot of talented artists on this platform, and this is easily one of the most under the radar rappers out right now. Maui Max brings a dope flow with raw lyrics and just about every song is a banger in it’s own right. He does a good job of making music you can vibe to, and music you can turn up to while still holding true to his own originality. Slept on is an understatement, and if you’re looking for new music for your playlist, this artist has to be added.
Maui Max - Want It All (Prod. by LaCoMusic)
We talked with Maui Max in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
QUESTION: How long have you been making music and how did you get started?
Maui Max: Been making music seriously for about 6 years. I moved from Jersey to Georgia in 2011, got a job at a clothing store and one of the managers told me I looked like somebody who would hang out with his little brother lol. So one day he introduced me then me and bro been rocking ever since, come to find out he does music not only rap, but produces and engineers as well. I always wanted to rap but at the time I didn’t think it was realistic and in Jersey there weren’t many platforms or studios that I knew of. Being a fly on the wall and watching the homies work, doing features here and there and being pushed to take it seriously, I said why not? I’m going to make my own mixtape and it was on from there.
QUESTION: Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who are your favorite musicians?
Maui Max: My biggest influence can’t just be one person, it’s a whole plethora of artists I look up to but if I had to name any off top it would be Pac, Jay Z, Nas, Curren$y, Dom Kennedy, Schoolboy Q, Cole, Wiz, Cudi, and the late great Nipsey Hussle not just because he’s gone now. People that know me knows what he meant to me alive. It’s hard because i’m a rap music guy and so many artist have a big influence on who I am as a person and style as an artist. 9/10 if they from LA they probably had an impact on me at some point, I love the culture and authenticity of the westcoast.
QUESTION: What artists would you like to collaborate with and why?
Maui Max: Most people I would like to collab with are people I would like to just sit down and chop it up with, get game, ask questions, build far beyond music, people who I identified with and said “We be thinking the same shit.” So I guess it would be my idols and influencers I named previously. I don’t really have anybody in particular i’m just dying to work with, I let stuff like that happen naturally. Matter fact, Pharrell, when he collabs with artists he brings this classic feeling.
QUESTION: What do you feel is your best song/project ever released and why?
Maui Max: TO ME my favorite song that I released will probably be “Work” produced by the homie Waitmattno. The bars and flow are effortless and when people want to hear me for the first time that is my go to track. It gets people moving. Song is so old but timeless, I had a lot to get off my chest and I was angry because somebody told me that my music was alright so I said i’ll show them how alright I am and boom, everyone’s favorite song by me was made lol. It’s been so hard to recreate something like that.
QUESTION: What projects can we look forward to in the near future?
Maui Max: I have my first full length project dropping summer time 2019 executively produced by the dude I said I met and got me into music LaCo. It’s so dope so far I can’t wait for people to hear it and also see the visuals, it’s a reintroduced me. Don’t have a name for it yet as I like things to come naturally, we just building the product til it’s ready 100%.
QUESTION: How do you generate new ideas for your music?
Maui Max: Live. I just speak about what i’m feeling. I feel like you can never run out of ideas if you just being you.
QUESTION: What motivates you and how do you define success?
Maui Max: My kids motivate me, I got 2 boys, the world motivates me, cause I love it so much but hate it at times. I always wanted to go out in a blaze of glory fighting for what I believe in and that’s the betterment of my people. When it’s my time to go I want my boys to be able to say I was a real G. I want the world to remember and carry my name, I want to set a blueprint for them. That’s success to me, forget about the money give me a platform to say what I feel needs to be said and done to change lives. I’m also motivated by working for other people because I hate it.
QUESTION: How do you describe your music to people and what separates you from other artists in your genre?
Maui Max: I just say I don’t rap like anybody you’ve heard and that’s because I really believe that. Nobody sounds like me and I don’t sound like anybody. Especially people my age and coming up like I am. I rap how I think a dope rapper should approach a beat not what I think everybody wants to hear.
QUESTION: Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?
Maui Max: Music is powerful. There’s definitely blueprints to follow but I think you can pick and choose what you think would work for you, there’s no right or wrong way to do this and that’s the beauty of it, I think people who want to make money come up with all these analytics and cheat codes but if you genuinely want to reach people you just got to be you, be relatable. Say something, help raise these kids through your music.
QUESTION: In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?
Maui Max: Hands down Hov, could have been Nipsey if given more time (RIP) but look at where Hov came from and where he’s at. The fact that he’s basically 50 and selling out american tours and can drop a album and it’s a big event alone proves that. When that man talks, we listen.
QUESTION: Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?
Maui Max: It’s a mix of everything because I’ve been through so much these past couple of years, it really just depends on how i’m feeling in that moment. I’m human and I display that in the music.
Maui Max - #Work (Prod. by WMN)
QUESTION: What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
Maui Max: Giving up drugs, I have my fun, but I started realizing that partying hard and doing things to tear up my body was taking a toll on what I was making when I really thought it was helping. Having to record in a hot ass garage sweating non stop just to get things done that I might not even like. Taking time away from my kids wishing I can be with them more. Spending my last to make sure I get good quality product so y’all can take me seriously. A whole lot more.
QUESTION: What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?
Maui Max: I don’t get excited until the song is done. Most times I already have a pre thought on how I think it will sound and if it doesn’t come out how I thought or want, i’m hurt. So once the main parts of a song is done that’s when I REALLY start to get creative that’s the part that excites me. The writing process can be discouraging sometimes because I can’t always think of something dope to say and I start to overthink. I put a lot of thought into what I put out. Im starting to break out of that though and just free myself and have fun again while still keeping the integrity of the music alive.
QUESTION: Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?
Maui Max: Lord willing doing big things, things I always knew I would do, things I never thought I could do. Owning businesses, opening schools, being a real boss.
QUESTION: What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?
Maui Max: If you need to, it’s okay to take a break, don’t kill yourself. I went crazy about this thing a million times, it really messes with your head and that’s why you always see these depressed artists. You got hella time, take it to make the best product possible and not the quickest. Also, know what you doing it for if you want to last long, have a purpose, a goal that music can open the doors for. You think big you’ll be big, we different, don’t let small minded people talk you into thinking you tripping I promise you’re not.
QUESTION: Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your music?
Maui Max: Everything I say in my music are real emotions and things that I go through whether it’s a hype song or something you can just ride to. You never have to worry about me fabricating anything or being something i’m not; I give you the good and the bad. Some songs may be a cry for help, some may be me just saying i’m good now and I was bugging but you’ll always know its coming from me.
IG: @Mauimax
Twitter: @Mauimaxx
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Exclusive | Rapper Rashè Supreme is Using Music to Share His Story
Maryland rapper, Rashè Supreme, talks using his voice and platform to tell his own story and struggles through his music in an exclusive interview! We discuss it here!
By: Omar Cook
This week's "Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is Rashè Supreme, a rising lyricist from the East Coast! This up and coming rapper hails from Landover, Maryland. “I’m a Master Student Of The Universe And have learned in various places from pretty suburbs around your way to neighboring ghettos where there isn’t too much hope to be found except for in ones self. Get what you can get from me.” Listening to his music, you can hear the realness in his lyrics, coming from a place of authenticity. Rashè Supreme is using his voice and platform to tell his own story and struggles through his music. This is definitely an artist you want to keep an eye out for and add to your playlist!
Rashe' Supreme - "Live This Way" (Official Music Video)
We talked with Rashè Supreme in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
QUESTION: How long have you been making music and how did you get started?
Rashè Supreme: I’ve been making music for about 10 years but I only started getting serious about it about 3 years ago. I started by writing poetry about how I feel on topics from school to my household and just the way I feel about certain things.
QUESTION: Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who are your favorite musicians?
Rashè Supreme: My biggest influence along my journey has been my self love and my favorite musicians are Tupac, Biggie Rick Ross, Meek Mill, Jay-Z, And a lot more people.
QUESTION: What artists would you like to collaborate with and why?
Rashè Supreme: Drake Most Definitely, Rick Ross , Meek Mill, Jay-Z , And Jacquees. I love the feeling I get when I hear music from these individuals
QUESTION: What do you feel is your best song/project ever released and why?
Rashè Supreme: Everything I’ve put out is my best. I feel like all of them are different pieces so it would be unfair in a sense to evaluate them all the same.
QUESTION: What projects can we look forward to in the near future?
Rashè Supreme: The Rashè Supreme project lol I’m an artist and just like life I flow. Pre plans never really go all the way to plans with me, so just follow me.
QUESTION: How do you generate new ideas for your music?
Rashè Supreme: I keep living. I leave writing music for a while and come back. I experience life. Talk to people. Read lol everything. It’s like breathing…in and out.
QUESTION: What motivates you and how do you define success?
Rashè Supreme: What motivates me is everything I ever thought and dreamed of and wanting it to come into existence. Also making the world a better place with all I have to offer. Success to me is just being yourself and being happy.
QUESTION: How do you describe your music to people and what separates you from other artists in your genre?
Rashè Supreme: I don’t describe it to people lol it’s an experience so I don’t try to introduce bias to that. I don’t focus on other people, I just do my thing,
QUESTION: Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?
Rashè Supreme: Consistency and genuineness
QUESTION: In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?
Rashè Supreme: Lil Wayne undoubtedly. I feel like he merged Rock, Rap & Pop culture .
QUESTION: Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?
Rashè Supreme: Passion, that’s just me.
QUESTION: What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
Rashè Supreme: Letting go of fear.
QUESTION: Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?
Rashè Supreme: A legendary figure and in movies/films
QUESTION: What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?
Rashè Supreme: Be ready for everything you don’t want, before you get everything you do want.
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Exclusive | Tahji Discusses The Release of His EP "Genesis"
Detroit rapper, Tahji, talks the release of his EP Genesis and moving to Los Angeles to pursue his career! We talked with Tahji in an exclusive interview! Check it out here!
By: Omar Cook
This week's "Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is Midwest rapper, Tahji! This under the radar lyricist hails from Detroit, Michigan and has been rapping most of his life. Tahji graduated from Belmont College with his bachelors in 2015 and played basketball and ran track in college. This rapper tries to tell life stories through his music and has an original delivery that needs to be heard. Don’t sleep on this up and coming artist!
Taj E - “The One” (Music Video)
We talked with Tahji in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
Question: How long have you been making music and how did you get started?
Tahji: I have been recording music for about five years but I’ve really been taking it serious for the last 2 years. I have always had a passion for music. I initially wanted to be a singer at 6, but fell in love with rap.
Question: Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who are your favorite musicians?
Tahji: I have different artists for different stages in my journey. To name some i’d say, the Temptations, Michael Jackson, Lil’Wayne, J Cole, Nas, and Jay-Z.
I originally wanted to be a Temptation and loved R&B. It was music that touched you. That was until I heard “I know I Can” by Nas and it touched me. I thought” rap music can bring real emotion out. At that point I liked rap. Then I heard Kanye “Through the Wire”, “ All Falls Down” and Jesus Walks” and began to be a big rap fan. I heard Lil’ Wayne Dedication 2 and fell in love with rap. I knew I’d rap at that point. I started appreciating Jay-Z more after the music was released and really going back to listen.
Question: What artists would you like to collaborate with and why?
Tahji: Definitely Meek Mill or J Cole.
Question: What do you feel is your best song/project ever released and why?
Tahji: I have two EP’s out on all digital Streaming services right now titled “Genesis” and The One”. My personal favorite song would have to be the “Nobody”.
Question: What projects can we look forward to in the near future?
Tahji: I just released an EP last month so i'm going to be doing visuals for those and also 2-3 freestyles released on my instagram each month. My next project will be in the spring.
Taj E - Oochie Wally Freestyle
Question: How do you generate new ideas for your music?
Tahji: It is really a day to day thing. I pull inspirations from real life situations. I could be in the club or a funeral and just be inspired to write.
Question: What motivates you and how do you define success?
Tahji: I love to be the best at what I do. I played a lot of sports growing up and this puts me in that same mode. I also want to provide for my family doing what I love. This is life now.
Question: How do you describe your music to people?
Tahji: Versatile. I’m not in a box. It’s no way I don’t have a song for you.
Question: Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?
Tahji: Hard Work. You can not substitute it. Everything in life is a grind. Nothing comes to you so go get it.
Question: Who is your greatest inspiration?
Tahji: Parents for sure. They put me on their backs. Showed me the way and I wouldn't be here without them.
Question: In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?
Tahji: I would say Lil’Wayne. I feel like he laid the foundation for all the music we hear today. For better or worse Wayne shifted the culture.
Taj E- Switch Sides ft. Khyran Shank (Music Video)
Question: Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?
Tahji: At this point I’d say passion. Right now i’m not the most “poppin” artist and I have a point to prove. I’m rapping like somebody that’s hungry and trying to eat.
Question: What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
Tahji: I gave up a six figure job and moved to California. I put everything on the line but no risk, no reward.
Taj E - “Nobody” (Music Video)
Question: What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?
Tahji: The part I love the most is when I recite it after finishing the writing process. I’m so ready to record and hear it. Sometimes it can be discouraging if you love a project and the reception to it is not what you expect.
Question: Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?
Tahji: In 10 years I see myself as one of the biggest artists. I’ll be ushering in the next generation.
Question: What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?
Tahji: Don’t give up. There will be a lot of No’s but it only takes one Yes.
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Exclusive | Malcolm Taylor Talks Regaining His Faith and Inspiring People Through Music
Philadelphia rapper, Malcolm Taylor, talks regaining his faith after the birth of his son and using his voice to inspire the world. We talked with Malcolm Taylor in an exclusive interview! Check it out here!
By: Omar Cook
This week's "Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is Philly rapper, Malcolm Taylor! This rapper uses his talents to paint a vivid picture with his lyrics based on his life experiences and uses his voice to spread a conscious, positive message. Malcolm has a versatility in his flow that makes each song feel different and keeps you entranced with the story telling. He remains authentic to his own delivery and separates himself from mainstream artists with his own style. This is an artist you need in your playlist.
Malcolm Taylor - PRAY PRAY PRAY (Music Video)
We talked with Malcolm Taylor in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
Question: How long have you been making music and how did you get started?
Malcolm Taylor: I been making music for over six years now. I can’t really tell you when I started, it’s just always been around me.
Question: Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who are your favorite musicians?
Malcolm Taylor: No one actually, I get inspiration from life, experiences, and what ever moves me. Some of my favorites are Biggie, 2pac, Jay-Z, Nas, DMX, OutKast, Kanye West, and Lauryn Hill just to name a few. I could really go on for days with naming my favorites.
Malcolm Taylor - Heart in it (Music Video)
Question: What artists would you like to collaborate with and why?
Malcolm Taylor: At the moment I would say J. Cole and Ty Dolla. I pick Cole because we would compliment each other by giving our point of views on what ever we choose to rhyme about. Ty Dolla brings a different element and vibe. Simply picked him because I enjoy his music.
Question: What do you feel is your best song/project ever released and why?
Malcolm Taylor: I really couldn’t tell you that, I put my all into everything. The one I have more of a personal connection with is a song titled “Faith” on my 1st project titled Commemorate. When I talk about losing my faith when my mother was murdered to gaining it back when my son was born.
Malcolm Taylor - PITY (Music Video)
Question: What projects can we look forward to in the near future?
Malcolm Taylor: I’m working on so much music that my fans just might get more than two projects from me in 2019.
Question: How do you generate new ideas for your music?
Malcolm Taylor: A lot of times I let the the production talk to me. If it doesn’t touch my soul I don’t write or even want to put my energy towards it. The best is like a canvas and what ever it tells me to paint I just go for it.
Question: What motivates you and how do you define success?
Malcolm Taylor: What motivates me is my purpose. My purpose is to be that voice that inspires others, and motivate them in an artistic way.
Question: How do you describe your music to people?
Malcolm Taylor: It’s a heartfelt experience!
Question: Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?
Malcolm Taylor: Not at all. I feel like everybody has their own path to success.
Question: Who is your greatest inspiration?
Malcolm Taylor: So many things but life, my son, my parents, my fans, music and God.
Question: In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?
Malcolm Taylor: I would have to say Jay-Z. We have to sit back and see everything this guy has really accomplished with his team. It’s amazing to me on so many levels. He just continues to break barriers and open doors for artists to really be moguls and business owners.
Question: Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?
Malcolm Taylor: Passion because without it how can you make people feel where you’re coming from
Question: What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
Malcolm Taylor: Go on a budget and really trim the fat on things I don’t really need.
Malcolm Taylor - Can I Live (Music Video)
Question: What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?
Malcolm Taylor: Creating the music and performing the music gets me excited the most. At the moment nothing discourages me, I’m in love with process.
Question: Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?
Malcolm Taylor: I see my music springing the next generation to do great things.
Question: What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?
Malcolm Taylor: Stay true to yourself because it’s only one of you!
Question: Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your music?
Malcolm Taylor: The New Ep is out now, “Protect your Energy” enjoy it until the next release!
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Exclusive | Jeh $inatra Discusses His Latest Album 'B.LA.C.K.'
New York rapper, Jeh $inatra, is the head of independent record label, Broken Hearts Music Group! We talked with Jeh $inatra in an exclusive interview about his latest album, B.LA.C.K., and more!
By: Omar Cook
This week's "Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is Jeh $inatra, an up and coming lyricist from the East Coast! $inatra hails from Syracuse, New York and graduated college in 2010 with a degree in Business Administration. At 32 years old, this artist is married with a 10 year old daughter and owns an independent record label by the name Broken Hearts Music Group. His label curently features 4 rappers including himself and their in-house producer. $inatra is passionate about all the arts, and as a creative he likes to show off his creativity in many different forms. His most recent album B.LA.C.K. can be found on all major streaming platforms (apple music, spotify, tidal) with a new album that is planned to be dropped in March.
We talked with Jeh $inatra in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
Question: How long have you been making music and how did you get started?
Jeh $inatra: 10 years. I got started through my brother who had been rapping since he was 15 himself back in New York. One day he wanted me to rap on a track with him, took me to the studio, I laid down my verse and the rest is history from that point. Haven’t stopped writing/rapping since.
Question: Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who are your favorite musicians?
Jeh $inatra: My biggest influence has been my best friend Tavares. A lot of times when people didn’t quite get the vision or the direction we were going with the music, he never lost sight of it all. He stayed true to what we were doing and what we stood for out of everyone else. Also my wife Candace as well. Huge influence and motivator. Favorite musicians would have to be Frank Sinatra, Bob Marley, Miles Davis, Jay-Z, Nas, Rakim, 2Pac, Notorious B.I.G., Kendrick Lamar, J.Cole...the list goes on and on for me.
Question: What artists would you like to collaborate with and why?
Jeh $inatra: Nas, Pharrell Williams, Adele, a dope R&B singer by the name of Ari Lennox (she has a really dope vibe and sound), H.E.R., Frank Ocean. Why I would like to collaborate with these artists is mostly to pick their brain and the inner workings of their minds. Being around creative minds like these you almost in sense can’t help but want to soak up as much knowledge as possible while given the opportunity. Nas has always been one of my favorite emcees of all time, Pharrell Williams has always been one of my musical idols, and as far as rest of the artists I just love their music.
Question: What do you feel is your best song/project ever released and why?
Jeh $inatra: So far my pick for best song would have to be off of my current album “B.LA.C.K” entitled “ACT III. GLORY”. To me that’s my best song because I was able to channel a more emotional, vulnerable side of myself I never really tap into musically, not to mention recording that record was the only time I spoke on my daughter as much as I did. For an entire song it was me rapping to her my love for her and why I do the things I do for her.
Question: What projects can we look forward to in the near future?
Jeh $inatra: Projects to look forward to in the near future from myself, I’am currently releasing a few singles with other artists leading up to my next major project which is slated to release next year March. I currently have a record set to release 11.14.18 with another artist from the Florida area we’ve been promoting. This is part of the series of singles I’ll be releasing over the next few months. My label also has in the works a compilation album featuring my artists TZO, Liron Dayo, $wayze, Eric King with production by our in-house producer D.A.GonBang.
Question: How do you generate new ideas for your music?
Jeh $inatra: From life experiences mostly. I always find ways to tie in my life into my music as much as possible. I find it to be more organic and truthful, versus just writing from an angle I haven’t really explored. I try to keep as much truth in my music as I can.
Question: What motivates you and how do you define success?
Jeh $inatra: What motivates me would be my Family first and foremost. My daughter, my wife, my mother/father and so forth. My true friends, the artists on my label, other indie artists and just creatives in general, and the sheer love and passion I have for music as a whole. I define success by personal growth and personal goals achieved all the while being able to help others achieve their goals. Success isn’t limited to personal accomplishments, the most successful people in life are those who extend a helping hand to others.
Question: How do you describe your music to people?
Jeh $inatra: “Grown-man rap” lol. Mature rap. In the truest form hip-hop. Not necessarily “backpack rap” or “conscious rap”, but just real rap with real lyrics, real stories, and real life relatable content. Nothing fabricated.
Question: Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?
Jeh $inatra: Yes and No. We’ve all witnessed up and coming artist come from nothing with no formula and blow up to be huge stars, however there are artists like myself who stick to the traditional path and follow that “formula” of hard work, grinding for a long time, not necessarily looking to make the next viral hit. Nothing wrong with that at all, but not every artist is inclined to doing that. Me personal I believe in quality over quantity when it comes to my music and the music our label releases. So to answer I believe there is a formula, I just don’t think it works for every artist.
Question: Who is your greatest inspiration?
Jeh $inatra: My daughter. I’m always striving to create a better life for her.
Jeh $inatra featuring TZO - “ACT X/ FOE”
Question: In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?
Jeh $inatra: Jay-Z, Diddy, Dr. Dre, and there’s a few others. Why because they are the epitome of coming from nothing, working extremely hard, staying dedicated to their craft/vision, and accomplishing honors in the hip-hop industry that rappers only dream about accomplishing.
Question: Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?
Jeh $inatra: Passion. I have an undying passion to succeed and help the ones around me succeed.
Question: What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
Jeh $inatra: Time. Time has been the biggest sacrifice I’ve had to make while chasing this dream. Time spent with family members and loved ones alike. That’s something you never get used to, you can only make the adjustments needed to make it work but you never fully get used to losing out on that time. Sleep lol. Lots of that.
Question: What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?
Jeh $inatra: What excites me the most is working with other creative minds, being able to make something from nothing and give birth to an idea in the physical form. I love writing music a lot. When people say it’s therapeutic it truly is. What discourages me about the music making process is the greed associated with working with those same artists. A lot of artists won’t have your best interest at heart even though you’re working closely with these individuals. There’s not too much I don’t like about the process or being involved with creating period.
Question: Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?
Jeh $inatra: Where do I see myself in 10 years, successfully running this label with more acts/talent, joint ventures with sports agencies, owning multiple lucrative businesses outside the world of hip-hop, in addition to partnering up with some non-profit organizations and really helping the community. I see myself helping to give back to those who need assistance in any way, shape, or form. To be the most well rounded CEO, that’s my end goal.
Question: What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?
Jeh $inatra: Stay true to your art, your craft, stay true to yourself, and your team and the ones around you. The ones who really support your dreams. Never switch up on them. Don’t be afraid to work with other artists. This business is all about relationships and building those, the more you’re receptive to with working with others the more opportunities come your way. Always Be Open Minded to Creating.