Exclusive | Artist JusFee is Using Rap and Acting to Inspire the Youth

“I define success by happiness of self and those in close proximity to me. I want everyone around me happy and living life to their best abilities.”

— JusFee

By: Omar Cook

Philadelphia artist, JusFee, is a multi talented artist with the goal to inspire! JusFee is a poet, altruist, actress, writer, director, and rapper. She does it all!

JusFee was born in Philly and raised in Frankford but brought her talents to Los Angeles in 2021 to pursue her career endeavors. At 22, Fee was involved in the streets selling drugs but the opportunity to act was presented to her. “I've always had a thing for music and poetry but never pursued it due to my street mentality and lifestyle.”

Fee made her acting debut on the hit web series Da GAP and also starred in the web series’ Lesbireal and Connect4. She has several feature film credits under her name including The Bid and upcoming movies Phels High alongside Omari Hardwick and LA Undercover, directed by rising filmmakers Omar Cook and Adonis Armstrong.

Aside from being a dope actress, JusFee is a top tier lyricist. She brings an authentic fire in her delivery, comparative to the likes of Young Ma. This is an artist that is on her way up and it’s just a matter of time before the world knows her name.

Though I've always had a heart for music I didn't fully focus until Early 2021 when I dropped my First hit single “Caught Up” on all digital platforms then “Vividly” a few months after depicting what happens when you choose yourself over the streets. With my new release “Young God'' I am promoting the same message of getting out of the streets and investing into you.

JusFee - Young God [Official Video]

We talked with JUsfee in an exclusive interview, check it out below!

Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who are your favorite musicians?

JusFee: Kendrick Lamar, Nas, J Cole, Drake, Londrelle, Lil Wayne, Kevin Gates and Lil Baby. My all time favorites are Tems, Lil Baby, Mary J Blige, and so many more.

What artists would you like to collaborate with and why?

JusFee: Lil Baby because he got the music in a chokehold, Kendrick for his ability to challenge the mind, and J Cole for his messaging. Together We can make some very powerful music.

What do you feel is your best song/project ever released and why?

JusFee: “Young God”, because it expresses the nature in which I was raised and made it out of because I believed I could and invested into myself.

What projects can we look forward to in the near future?

JusFee: I am currently working on a E.P. to be released 10/?/23

How do you generate new ideas for your music?

JusFee: I have a few producers that I work with who so I’ll go off of how the beat makes me feel at the time I review them.

What motivates you and how do you define success?

JusFee: Family motivates me! I define success by happiness of self and those in close proximity to me. I want everyone around me happy and living life to their best abilities.

JusFee - “Caught Up” (Music Video)

How do you describe your music to people and what separates you from other artists in your genre?

JusFee:  It's elevating and educational and I differ from others from the way I deliver my message to how passionate I am about changing the ways of and for generations to come.

Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?

JusFee: Yes lol I am currently working on figuring out the formula.

What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?

JusFee: Man it's been way too many up to date to name but some are giving up the street life, Losing family and friends, missing out on opportunities. Relocating from Philadelphia to Los Angeles was my biggest one to date.

What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?

Jusfee - “Vividly” (Music Video)

JusFee: Recording my music is the most exciting part and releasing it is my least favorite part of the process.

Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?

JusFee: In 10 years I'll be retired from music and living happily with my family. Most of my hits will be at the Top of all music billboards.

What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?

JusFee: Stay consistent cause there are going to be times when there will be no motion or little cause everyone doesn't like everything.

Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your music?

JusFee: Keep your ears as well as your eyes open because soon enough everyone will know who and what I am and everything I stand for on my journey.

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Exclusive | Aaronic Dorsey Talks the Release of His Latest EP 'What Summer Was Ext.'

“I feel as an artist your real success is defined by your ability to touch and impact the people.”

— Aaronic Dorsey

By: Omar Cook

This week's "Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is Atlanta rapper, songwriter and producer, Aaron Dorsey! Known professionally as Aaronic Dorsey, he originally hails from Montgomery, Alabama, and moved to Atlanta as a child and has since immersed himself in various avenues to develop his musicality and artistry further. His earliest musical influences range from Kirk Franklin to Stevie Wonder.

Aaronic grew up in the church, and had limited exposure to rap music.  It was not until the 5th grade when he was introduced to artists such as T.I. and 50 Cent. However, it was the likes of Kanye West, Outkast, and Pharrell Williams that ultimately laid the groundwork and inspiration for the sound Aaronic now delivers as an artist. During Dorsey’s junior year of high school, he began releasing freestyles that led to the release of his first mixtape. Since then, Aaronic has continued to evolve his  creativity through songwriting, production, and curating visual companions to his musical releases. 

Even though Aaronic started by rapping for classmates classmates, it was him getting involved in the teen ministry at his church that allowed him to develop and find his stage presence. Aaronic has performed in numerous open mics and showcases in the Atlanta area. Known for his high energy on stage and crafty lyrics, Aaronic captivates audiences by providing them with the pureness of who he is at all costs. He strongly believes in giving people raw art, well done. Aaronic Dorsey recently released an extended cut of his last EP titled What Summer Was Ext and it is available on all streaming platforms.

This artist is a true lyricist as he pours real thoughts and emotions into every song that listeners can relate. Aaronic is just what Hip Hop needs, a true creator.

Aaronic Dorsey - Snooze

We talked with Aaronic Dorsey in an exclusive interview, check it out below!

How long have you been making music and how did you get started?  

Aaronic Dorsey: I’ve been making music for right around 10 years now. I recognized my love for music as early as 5th grade and would even tell people I was a rapper even though at the time I didn’t even have any raps written but it was in my junior year of high school where it became a real thing. I had a group of friends who all shared the same interest and we all began recording in a friends basement experimenting and finding each of our individual sounds.  

Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who  are your favorite musicians?  

Aaronic Dorsey: My biggest influences are Kanye West, Stevie Wonder, OutKast, Kirk Franklin, and Pharrell Williams.  

What artists would you like to collaborate with and why?  

Aaronic Dorsey: PJ Morton and Tobe Nwigwe are two artists I’d love to collaborate with because both are independent and I feel I could learn a lot from them how to better maneuver my independent artistry. 

What do you feel is your best song/project ever released and why?  

Aaronic Dorsey: My best project to me is my most recent, What Summer Was Ext. and I say that because it truly feels like a coming of  age for me. I’m finally at this point where I know who I am and know how to make that translate in a way where the music can be felt. Finishing school was a big reset for me as an artist so a lot of stuff I put out when I first finished were more experimental than anything cause I was still trying to connect the dots with all that I had learned.  

What projects can we look forward to in the near future?  

Aaronic Dorsey: I plan to put out some singles and videos and hopefully an album towards the end of the year. This summer I’m planning to relaunch this series I do called “Garage Sessions” where I literally set up in my garage and either perform my songs or rap over some of my favorite songs from other artist.  

Aaronic Dorsey - Garage Sessions Ep. 29: WSW Mashup

How do you generate new ideas for your music?  

Aaronic Dorsey: I generate most ideas from my own life experiences and just what’s happening around me. I’m always looking for ways to broaden my horizons and expand my perspectives.  

What motivates you and how do you define success?  

Aaronic Dorsey: I define success as being able to impact and inspire people to be more than what is presented to them. I feel as an artist your real success is defined by your ability to touch and impact the people. It sounds simple but it goes so much deeper than the music itself. It’s the ability to represent and stand for something bigger than you.  

How do you describe your music to people and what separates you from other artists in your  genre?  

Aaronic Dorsey: I always approach creating my music from an approach of giving people raw art, well done. It’s raw cause it’s literally a piece of me but well done because I want to make sure that even though the content is raw I still make sure it’s presented in a way that is digestible for people to connect with. 

Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?  

Aaronic Dorsey: The only real formula is being yourself. I feel you can never go wrong being true to who you are but that doesn’t mean you know it all. Be yourself and always be willing to seek further  direction and advice. As creators we have the goal in mind but we don’t always see the bigger picture due to us being so connected to the art so its important to keep good people around you. My other tip is to be willing to learn any and everything that contributes to your art. It’ll help you have a better idea of what quality work is and what it takes to achieve that. Do the work and let the team find you.  

Who is your greatest inspiration?  

Aaronic Dorsey: My dad is definitely my greatest inspiration. He was the one that introduced me to so much music and gave me my initial love for it.  

In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?  

Aaronic Dorsey: It’s a toss up between Drake and Kendrick Lamar. Both are artists are global icons and have created their own lanes that many artists have taken after in the current era of hip hop. There are a  lot of different rappers but those are two that I feel everyone looks to in one way or another.  

Aaronic Dorsey - Garage Sessions Ep. 28: Reciprocate ft. MAG The Artist

Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc., and why?  

Aaronic Dorsey: Passion is definitely a dominate emotion because it gives me the ability to embrace so many other emotions at once depending on the topic point of the song. I make my goal to not write  about anything that I myself isn’t passionate about or haven’t experienced.  

What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?  

Aaronic Dorsey: One of my biggest sacrifices was taking a year off from music in 2014 to go back to school and learn the basics of how to record and produce. That one decision made me better not only in my artistry but allowed me to build skills that helped me find jobs that have further developed my skill set.  

Aaronic Dorsey

What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages  you the most?  

Aaronic Dorsey: Recording, Writing, and Beatmaking are by far my favorite parts of the process. I can somewhat enjoy mixing but the pressure of it along with the constant revisions are definitely  something that can tend to drive me crazy especially when it’s crunch time. 

Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?  

Aaronic Dorsey: In 10 years I want to be in a place where my passion works for me. I want to be able to still do music but also be able to have other endeavors working for me also rather if it’s teaching, acting, or almost anything that will keep my creative juices flowing.  

What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?  

Aaronic Dorsey: Learn how to do as much as you can so that nothing can stop you from getting your music out there. The time you could spend waiting on help to come out the sky you could be learning the skill. This doesn’t mean you will do everything forever and nobody should want to but in the  beginning all you really have is you so the least you can do is put yourself to use.  

Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your music?  

Aaronic Dorsey: I recently dropped a project called What Summer Was Ext. and it is available on all streaming platforms. I also have series on YouTube called Garage Sessions where Im performing some songs off that project along with me rapping over some of my favorite songs so definitely go check both of those out!

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Exclusive | Rapper Princeton Marcellis Talks His Upcoming Mixtape 'By Any Means'

“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.”

— Princeton Marcellis

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 | Singer Kalenbree Talks Her Upcoming Sophomore Project 'Panda'

“My music is something for people to vibe to, to cry to, and shake their ass to if they want to! My music is genre defying and revolutionary.”

— Kalenbree

By: Omar Cook

This week's "Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is Georgia singer, Kalenbree! Kalenbree is a versatile artist out of Decatur who has the ability to switch her flow from song to song. This artist can sing, rap, play the guitar, and is a crowd engaging performer. After releasing her first full project “Indigo Child” in 2018, Kalenbree is set to drop her sophomore project “Panda” this year and she recently dropped a new single called “1999”. This is an exciting artist on the rise that you certainly want to keep your eyes on as you can’t help but get caught up in her vibe when you turn the music on.

Kalenbree - 1999

We talked with Kalenbree in an exclusive interview, check it out below!

How long have you been making music and how did you get started?

Kalenbree: I was groomed in a musically inclined family, both my mother and my father are singers and instrumentalists which influenced me to create music of my own at a very young age. I was a frequent church goer so naturally this is where I got my first opportunity to showcase my talents. It all happened like this: 

 My youth pastor caught me singing one day with my friends and she said, “You sing?” And my friends butted in to say, “And she plays guitar!” Then my Youth Pastor goes, “You’re singing next Sunday!” And leaves! I really wanted to be an author originally so, I honestly didn’t want to do it, but I did it anyway. I sang in front of a huge crowd of kids and I was really close to getting up and leaving. But she made me stay and sing, and when i finished I had the straightest look on my face...then everyone started cheering and clapping and I was very surprised! I thought to myself, “Hm... I like this feeling. Maybe I should do this more often.” So, I performed every other Sunday at my church, and I got more and more confident in my music and decided to keep going and I haven’t stopped since. Ironically enough, I never decided that I was going to do music with my life until 2017.

Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who are your favorite musicians?

Kalenbree: My biggest influences are my personal experiences in life; I am a very passionate person, but when I was younger I had terrible anger issues and needed an outlet. Music saved my life. The people who influenced me where my mother, my youth pastor, and Erykah Badu, India Arie, Ed Sheeran and Kendrick. Ed Sheeran was my biggest influence ever though and my favorite artist at the time.

My favorite artist is Kendrick Lamar and it will always be Kendrick Lamar. But, I also love SZA, SahBabii, Louis Armstrong, Erykah Badu, Smino, Masego. 

What artists would you like to collaborate with and why?

Kalenbree: I want to collab with Doja Cat, Tierra Whack, Masego, Smino, Kaash Paige, Xiamara and Jelani Imani. I just really fuck with them as artists and I feel like we would make great music!

What do you feel is your best song/project ever released and why?

Kalenbree: The best song I have out right now numbers-wise is “Decatur” but “1999” is also a favorite of mine. My song “Decatur” is my baby and it changed my whole sound; I made a song about where I grew up at and it was everyone’s favorite song at the time. I just really love the vibes of it and I freestyled the whole thing so it was really fun for me to make. I’ve only put out one project thus far called Indigo Child which is a collection of songs that holds a special place in my heart because it’s very personal and signifies the start of my musical career as a recording artist. 

Kalenbree - BUBBLEGUM

What projects can we look forward to in the near future?

Kalenbree: Everyone can look forward to my next EP Panda dropping some time this year! And a song with me and DavidTheTragic as well.

How do you generate new ideas for your music? 

Kalenbree: I generate new ideas based on my emotions and what’s happened to me in my life. Making music is a coping mechanism and outlet for my feelings. I always feel super relieved after making a song, I guess you can say that creating music is therapeutic for me. 

What motivates you and how do you define success?

Kalenbree: The people, my family, my friends, and my supporters all motivate me. My ambition stems from my need to win. I define success as joy. When I am undoubtedly happy and the people around me are happy is when I believe I have become successful, believe it or not, I want everyone who helped me to eat, even the ones I fell out with. 

How do you describe your music to people and what separates you from other artists in your genre?

A: My music is something for people to vibe to, to cry to, and shake their ass to if they want to! My music is genre defying and revolutionary. My intentions and reasons for doing music are all genuine since it is out of the love for it. That’s also what makes me different.  

Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?

Kalenbree: I don’t think that there’s any specific formula to success. Every successful artist has their own journey and their own story to getting to where they are now. Times change all the time, so no one thing is going to work for everyone. I believe once you find your niche, everything else is based on the people around you, you’re mindset, and the law of attraction.

Who is your greatest inspiration?

Kalenbree: My mother is my greatest inspiration. She took care of me a supported my music career first before anyone else did. She went above and beyond to throw me my first show ever. She beat cancer, and still continues to be so hardworking despite her health conditions. It’s just inspirational and lets me know that I have no excuses as to why I’m not working hard.

In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?

Kalenbree: The most influential and successful in my genre today? I make alternative r&b, so SZA, Frank Ocean definitely, and The Weeknd. 

Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?

Kalenbree: Passion definitely. I’m passionate about everything I do. Even the things I say I’m passionate about. I guess it’s cause I’m an Aries.

What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?

Kalenbree: I had to sacrifice comfortability. Like, I could’ve had a regular job, good pay and focus on school, having enough to move out as soon as I got into college, and live a normal comfortable life. But, I put my all into music. I put all my eggs in one basket and bet it all on music.

What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?

Kalenbree: Performing excites me the most! I love being on stage and I love the crowd. I’m my happiest when I’m on stage. What discourages me the most is my own thoughts. I struggle with being positive 24/7, but I’m only human. Sometimes, I wonder if I’m a good enough artist to make it, wonder why I’m not making it ASAP.

Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?

Kalenbree: I see myself on tour, winning hella awards and changing millions of lives along the way.

What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?

Kalenbree: I would say, “keep going, accept criticism in all shapes and forms and never take anything to personally, set standards, and always have people around you that will tell you the truth, because those are the people who genuinely want to see you win and care for you.”

Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your music?

Kalenbree: Only that I’m always evolving and I will continuously drop music,visuals, and cater to my fanbase. My music career has only just started, stay tuned for more Kalenbree.

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Exclusive | Rapper AJAY Talks Sacrificing Sleep, Money, and Relationships to Pursue His Dream

“I’m one of the greatest things to come out of the South. ”

— AJAY

By: Omar Cook

This week's "Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is Georgia rapper AJAY! AJAY is a 26 year old artist who hails from Decatur, Georgia and is formerly known as Phonic. AJAY makes up 1/4 of the music group All Black Congress which features T. Mason, Honey Simone, and Shinobi X. This artist brings a smooth flow to every track that keeps you locked in. AJAY has been on the music scene for a a few years but is constantly evolving in his music and we can expect more from him in the coming year. Don’t sleep, AJAY is just the type of artist that hip hop needs right now.

AJAY - Circles ft Evan Bailey (Official Video)

We talked with AJAY in an exclusive interview, check it out below!

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN MAKING MUSIC AND HOW DID YOU GET STARTED?

I’ve been making music since I was about 13 years old. I started writing raps when I was 12 years old after hearing OutKast for the first time. I had “Southernplayalistic” and “Aquemini” loaded on this busted little MP3 player and listening to those albums helped me decide that this was what I wanted to do.

MUSICALLY, WHO HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST INFLUENCE IN HELPING YOU ALONG YOUR JOURNEY AND WHO ARE YOUR FAVORITE MUSICIANS?

Musically my biggest influence, my main one, is Andre 3000. Mr. Benjamin. But there’s also Roy Ayers, Sade, Bilal, Notorious B.I.G, Eminem, D’ Angelo, Frank Ocean, Erykah Badu, Ludacris, Schoolboy Q, K. Dot. The list goes on & on, man. Right now, my favorite artists are Tame Impala & Tyler, The Creator.

WHAT ARTISTS WOULD YOU LIKE TO COLLABORATE WITH AND WHY?

As far as artists I want to collaborate with, Tame Impala, Dr. Dre, D’Angelo, & Frank Ocean. Those are just my long term choices off the top of my head. There are a few artist I want to collaborate with right here at home too. NoGum Hundo, Jaye Newton, Muddy Mia, DavidTheTragic, Risa Pearl, Flwr Chyld. Just to name a few.

WHAT DO YOU FEEL IS YOUR BEST SONG/PROJECT EVER RELEASED AND WHY?

What is my best song? Honestly, I don’t know. I love all my music. I don’t want to say “oh yeah, my best song is blah, blah” because then that gives the people a reason to go listen to just that project or song. Play all my music. Then you tell me what my best song is.

AJAY - Ballad Of Jerome

WHAT PROJECTS CAN WE LOOK FORWARD TO IN THE NEAR FUTURE?

With future projects, I’m hoping to continuously expand. Bend genres, cross boundaries, & all that. I’ve never wanted to be pigeon holed as just a rap artist, so I’m thinking directing movies, producing, & anything else I come across in the process.

HOW DO YOU GENERATE NEW IDEAS FOR YOUR MUSIC?

When I want to get new ideas for music, I try to do something I wouldn’t necessarily do on a regular basis and just venture into a different territory. Try my best to search for a different feeling. That also means not doing the same song over and over again and trying beats that I haven’t heard in my catalog before.

WHAT MOTIVATES YOU AND HOW DO YOU DEFINE SUCCESS?

My motivation comes from life itself. I know that sounds really simple, but being dissatisfied, being in love, being disappointed has been my motivation to keep going. Being out of love, growing old, living life is all motivation for me because it continues to give me things to reflect on and talk about. As long as I have something to talk about, I’m motivated to continue this journey. The accolades, the acknowledgement, those things are wonderful but me being able to be honest with myself and with other people through my music is what the idea of success looks like to me.

HOW DO YOU DESCRIBE YOUR MUSIC TO PEOPLE AND WHAT SEPARATES YOU FROM OTHER ARTISTS IN YOUR GENRE?

I describe my music in many different ways. For example, the intro and the song after that on my last project How Will U Survive, I’ve always pictured Kane coming out at the Hell in the Cell match between Undertaker & Shawn Michales and just causing the most destruction he possibly can when I listen to it. So, yeah.

DO YOU BELIEVE THERE IS A FORMULA TO BEING A SUCCESSFUL ARTIST?

I don’t believe there is necessarily a formula to being a successful artist. It’s no handbook to this. It’s something you have to jump into if you’re going to do it and never look back. It takes long nights some times. There are a lot of ups and downs and you kind of just have to ride the wave. Keep your head down and continue to work as hard as possible. Connections help, knowing people helps, but sometimes there are no connections. So, you just keep going.

WHO IS YOUR GREATEST INSPIRATION?

My inspiration comes from my family. Past, present, and future. My family inspires me to be transparent now because that’s how they accept me, as I am & of course I look for my supporters to do the same. My future inspires me to not be an “almost was”.

IN YOUR OPINION WHO IS THE MOST INFLUENTIAL AND SUCCESSFUL ARTIST IN YOUR GENRE TODAY AND WHY?

The most influential artist of my generation, in my opinion, has to be Dwayne Carter. Every artist I hear has a piece of Wayne in them and that’s undeniable. Andre may be the reason I wanted to start rapping, but Lil Wayne is the person who taught me how to rap. How to put metaphors together and how to come with witty punchlines.

WHICH EMOTION MORE THAN ANY OTHER, CURRENTLY DOMINATES YOUR MUSIC? JOY, SADNESS, ANGER OR PASSION ETC. , AND WHY?

Curiosity is what dominates my music right now, if you can categorize that as an emotion. I’m curious to see what my limits are and how I can continue to push through those barriers and create new experiences for myself and listeners.

WHAT SACRIFICES HAVE YOU HAD TO MAKE, TO MAKE YOUR DREAM A REALITY?

I’ve sacrificed sleep, money, relationships, and much more just to see this dream play out in the best way possible. I won’t lie and say I have no regrets because I have many, but I look past it because I’m giving it all up for the one thing I love more than anything.

WHAT ASPECT OF THE MUSIC MAKING PROCESS EXCITES YOU MOST, AND WHAT ASPECT DISCOURAGES YOU THE MOST?

When it comes to the process, I love recording. I love being able to see my ideas come together as I’m recording vocals, adding harmonies, ad-libs, etc. My distaste lies within the writing process which my seem a bit odd but there’s always the choice of what to say that bugs me because I always want to say so much within 16 bars but that’s not always necessary.

WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF AND YOUR MUSIC IN 10 YEARS?

In 10 years, I want to be happy with what I’ve done, ya know? I feel like a lot of artists aren’t happy for whatever reason. I don’t need a garage full of cars, I don’t need this crazy, insane house, or 13 chains. In 10 years, I want to be at peace.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER UP AND COMING ARTISTS OR PEOPLE LOOKING TO BREAK INTO THE MUSIC INDUSTRY?

My advice to other artists is none of that stuff you see is what it seems. Do what it is you love and those who love it will follow. Write, sing, rap, play freely.

Follow my Soundcloud, I used to be Phonic but now I'm AJAY, download my music, exercise, drink water, live freely, don't trust the government, be safe out here. AJAY loves you. 

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Exclusive | Rapper ZimMill Talks Focusing on His Own Sound and Identity

“To quote Nip, ‘Demonstration speaks louder than conversation’. . So just tap in & find out”

— ZimMill

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

“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 | Mike Crump Talks the Release of His Latest Project 'Love Jones'

“My music comes from the soul, I love making music and would do it for free. This is history in the making, don’t miss it.”

By: Omar Cook

This week's "Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is Philly rapper, Mike Crump! Mike Crump has such a unique flow, that you know exactly who it is when he steps on the mic. He brings a CyHi The Prince feel to his tracks but still has his own flow. His latest project “Love Jones” is full of some dope R&B samples and is definitely a project that should be in your playlist. Mike Crump has been making music for a minute, but still remains under the radar and is continuously evolving from project to project. Check out this artist and be on the lookout for this up and coming artist!

Mike Crump - DON'T SAY MY NAME/YOU NEED ME

We talked with Mike Crump in an exclusive interview, check it out below!

QUESTION: HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN MAKING MUSIC AND HOW DID YOU GET STARTED?

Mike Crump: I been making music for about 6 years and it was something I always wanted to do but just wasn't confident enough. Until one day I just went for it and I never looked back.

QUESTION: MUSICALLY, WHO HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST INFLUENCE IN HELPING YOU ALONG YOUR JOURNEY AND WHO ARE YOUR FAVORITE MUSICIANS?

Mike Crump: I'm never really influenced by just a single artist. I appreciate the art form so whenever I hear something great, I'm inspired no matter who the artist is. Now my favorites are Nas, J Cole, Kendrick, Drake, and Loaded Lux.

QUESTION: WHAT ARTISTS WOULD YOU LIKE TO COLLABORATE WITH AND WHY?

Mike Crump: Well of course my favorites but outside of that I would love to work with whoever I feel sounds great with me or on the project I'm working on. The feeling of my music always changes so God only knows who I would call on.

QUESTION: WHAT DO YOU FEEL IS YOUR BEST SONG EVER RELEASED AND WHY?

Mike Crump: My best project is Love Jones because it’s my latest project lol. But seriously it has an authentic feeling and doesn't sound like anything you have heard. Hip Hop always has a wave and no matter what, I stay true to myself. I think people find it refreshing.

MIKE CRUMP - WHO ARE YOU

QUESTION: WHAT PROJECTS CAN WE LOOK FORWARD TO IN THE FUTURE?

Mike Crump: I'm working on a project that will be coming out really soon. I don't have a title just yet but it’s on the horizon. I'm taking my time so it will be well crafted. Follow my Instagram to check out some snippets @mikecrump4k.

QUESTION: HOW DO YOU GENERATE NEW IDEAS FOR YOUR MUSIC?

Mike Crump: It just flows naturally, I'm always thinking and working on being the best artist I can be. Practice allows me to keep my skills sharp so coming up with new material is easy.

QUESTION: WHAT MOTIVATES YOU AND HOW DO YOU DEFINE SUCCESS?

Mike Crump: I want to be the best its that simple but also the best version of my self, If that doesn't motivate you nothing will. I define success by the work someone puts it, money awards and record sales just feed your ego, I need none of that because I know who I am.

QUESTION: HOW DO YOU DESCRIBE YOUR MUSIC TO PEOPLE?

Mike Crump: Someone once told me I had to pick a lane and you know what, I don't. My music sounds like me and that's unique and driven by the heart. To know what I sound like is to know me and I'm a complicated person. That's my way of saying I'm not sure yet because just like myself I'm not done discovering who I am. That easily separates me because there is no other person like me.

QUESTION: DO YOU BELIEVE THERE IS A FORMULA TO BEING A SUCCESSFUL ARTIST?

Mike Crump: I don't, I think everybody has their own unique path. What works for you might work for me or it might not.

QUESTION: WHO IS YOUR GREATEST INSPIRATION?

Mike Crump: I love seeing people come from where I come from and make it out. It gives me hope that one day I will do the same. Success is viewed different by so many people but in my eyes it’s Nas. To stay true to your roots while also growing and changing in a world where cash and accolades rules all is special to me.

QUESTION: WHICH EMOTION MORE THAN ANY OTHER, CURRENTLY DOMINATES YOUR MUSIC? JOY, SADNESS, ANGER OR PASSION ETC. , AND WHY?

Mike Crump: Passion simply because that's what drives me. I love hip hop and passion is what keeps me going, you can hear it in my music.

QUESTION: WHAT SACRIFICES HAVE YOU HAD TO MAKE, TO MAKE YOUR DREAM A REALITY?

Mike Crump: Man I lost friends, relationships, family you name it. All to keep the dream alive. I have to live my life and that's what I want to do.

QUESTION: WHAT ASPECT OF THE MUSIC MAKING PROCESS EXCITES YOU MOST, AND WHAT ASPECT DISCOURAGES YOU THE MOST?

Mike Crump: I love recording a track, and being so surprised how it came out. When you make something extraordinary, that's the best feeling in the world. I hate the business side of music, completely necessary and I get it. That's just not why I got into this.

QUESTION: WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF AND YOUR MUSIC IN 10 YEARS?

Mike Crump: I could say on top but that doesn't mean as much to me as it did in the past. In 10 years I hope to still be doing what I love and I want to look back and be proud of what I have done.

QUESTION: WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER UP AND COMING ARTISTS OR PEOPLE LOOKING TO BREAK INTO THE MUSIC INDUSTRY?

Mike Crump: Follow your heart, don't worry about doing everything right. If your heart is in the right place everything will work itself out.

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Exclusive | T. Mason Talks the Release of His Sophomore Project 'Got Home Late'

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 | Some Guy Named Lee Talks His Upcoming Project 'My Happy Place'

By: Omar Cook

This week's "Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is East Coast rapper “Some Guy Named Lee”! Lee is originally from Buffalo, New York but currently calls Atlanta home. Lee spent a few semesters in College at Niagara University and hasn’t had much time for much outside of music since pursuing it full time. This rapper doesn’t have a long catalogue of music, but just about every track he has dropped is flames. This is an artist who sounds like he’s been in the game for a minute but is really just getting started. Lee has a dope flow mixed with some laid back beats and is definitely an artist you need to watch out for.

Some Guy Named Lee - Grind (Official Audio)

We talked with Some Guy Named Lee in an exclusive interview, check it out below!

QUESTION: How long have you been making music and how did you get started?

Some Guy Named Lee: I want to say I’ve been doing music since 9, my mother got me a radio that had a built in microphone and me and my brother use to record on that.

QUESTION: Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who are your favorite musicians?

Some Guy Named Lee: iClub has been my biggest influences along my journey. Dez Billups at Human Re-Sources and DeMiya Williams at RCA Sony Music have been more than helpful as well. 

QUESTION: What artists would you like to collaborate with and why? 

Some Guy Named Lee: Kendrick, Cole, Jay-Z, Drake, Chance, Jaden Smith, I have a Big list. I can go on and on lol. I think sonically we would make dope records and push each other lyrically. 

Some Guy Named Lee - Playing Around

QUESTION: What do you feel is your best song/project ever released and why?

Some Guy Named Lee: Grind is my biggest record to date but it’s hard to say what is my best song, it changes per mood. Right now I would say my verse for Riff Blanco’s Sky is the limit is my favorite though. 

QUESTION: What projects can we look forward to in the near future?

Some Guy Named Lee: I will be releasing “My Happy Place” 1st quarter of the year.  

QUESTION: How do you generate new ideas for your music?

Some Guy Named Lee: I like to have in depth conversations with friends, family and even strangers, and take from those moments and experiences to create.   

QUESTION: What motivates you and how do you define success?

Some Guy Named Lee: My kids, the culture, not having financial freedom and Buffalo motivates me. Success to me is generational wealth.

QUESTION: How do you describe your music to people?

Some Guy Named Lee: I don’t. (Marsha Ambrosius told me to just create and let the people describe my music). It’s art so it will be interpreted differently by each listener. 

QUESTION: Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?

Some Guy Named Lee: Absolutely, but it’s different for each individual. No right or wrong way but you have to have a plan and follow through.   

QUESTION: Who is your greatest inspiration?

Some Guy Named Lee: I am my greatest inspiration. I owe it to myself to be success, I’ve put too much time, energy and effort in my craft to quit.

QUESTION: In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?

Some Guy Named Lee: Jay-Z. He’s made it possible to do anything, and it started with rap. 

QUESTION: Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?

Some Guy Named Lee: Happiness, because when I’m happy I don’t have negativity or stress preventing me from creating music. I'm not one of those artists who makes better music when they're sad or depressed.

QUESTION: What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?

Some Guy Named Lee: Relationships, time with my kids, and sleep lol.

QUESTION: What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most? 

Some Guy Named Lee: Everything about creating excites me from recording to coming up with melodies but I love writing the most. Nothing discourages me, I make Lemonade!!

QUESTION: Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?

Some Guy Named Lee: Financially free, still touring with Multiple Grammy’s. Still rocking with the people I came in with.

QUESTION: What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry? 

Some Guy Named Lee: There’s people who think Jay-Z is garbage and he's the GOAT so don’t let negative comments break you. Know Thyself. 

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Exclusive | William Prize Talks Overcoming Depression and His Upcoming Project "Mind Games"

By: Omar Cook

This week's "Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is William Prize, an under the radar lyricist from the East Coast! Prize is a recording artist, and partner CEO of AZUS Records hailing from Fayetteville, North Carolina. He graduated from 71st high school in 2012, served in the armed forces for a while and is now pursuing a bachelors in audio engineering. Aside from music, Prize finds passion shooting photography and playing basketball. This is an artist with a soulful vibe with lyrics that you can feel. Keep your eyes out for Prize because this is someone you need in your playlist!

William Prize - “Brotha From Another” Music video

We talked with William Prize in an exclusive interview, check it out below!

QUESTION: How long have you been making music and how did you get started? 

William Prize: I’ve been making music for almost 2 years now. Once I’d gotten out the military in 2016  I wanted to find a new hobby and I’ve always loved music so I figured I would learn how to produce. I was scrolling down my Snapchat and seen my bro Cidy Pyramids making a beat and asked if he could teach me the ways haha. I pulled up that day and been pulling up every since. We would eventually drop our first collab instrumental tape entitled “MAD COLLAB” which can be found on SoundCloud.  

QUESTION: Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who are your favorite musicians?

William Prize: My team is my biggest influence by far! There motivation and drive keeps me going and everyone is a high caliber artist so it keeps all of us on our toes for sure. I have a wide range of music I listen to but I’m a huge fan of Common, J. Cole, Big K.R.I.T, and Kendrick to name a few!

QUESTION: What artists would you like to collaborate with and why? 

William Prize: I would like to collab with Anderson Paak, bro has the most soulful and free sound I can think of right now. I would like to do a song with Solange singing the hook , I love her voice.

QUESTION: What do you feel is your best song/project ever released and why? 

William Prize: I love every song that I’ve dropped for a different reason but one of my favorite verses that’s out is the outro on my first EP light tape called “LIGHTS OUT”. The song focuses on a time period in my life where I was coping with depression and heavy drinking and me beating it and I think everyone needs music that pulls them out of a dark place.

QUESTION: What projects can we look forward to in the near future?

William Prize: I am actually finishing up my 2nd major project “MIND GAMES”. I started working on it a week after my last project dropped. It has stories of my life that I feel can help others in theirs. It hits on relationships, happiness, life, the good and bad times. I wanted it to sound like their perfect cross between hiphop & neo soul. No release date yet but it will be out before the end of the year 

QUESTION: How do you generate new ideas for your music?

William Prize: My creative process is ever changing. I always have a direction that I start with, after that, however the beat makes me feel takes over from that point forward. 

QUESTION: What motivates you and how do you define success?

William Prize: There is an old saying that goes if you find a job you love you’ll never have to work again a day in your life. I’m motivated to do what I love! I’m chasing a lot of the things that people usually associate with success but the main thing I’m After is happiness, self love and things of that nature. I’ve had big money, I have a nice car, and neither of those made me completely happy so that’s not how I define success. 

QUESTION: How do you describe your music to people?

William Prize: An old school feel with a new school vibe. I’m a lyricist and an empath, I want to make the listener feel something or recall back to a certain time.

QUESTION: Who is your greatest inspiration? 

William Prize: J.Cole has been inspiring me since the 10th grade. Knowing that somebody from my city with his style not only made it but is an icon makes me feel like it’s possible for me as well with the work ethic!

QUESTION: In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?

William Prize: I’d have to say Jay-z just knowing about where he came from and seeing where he made it to. 

QUESTION: Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why? 

William Prize: Saddness, not to say that my music is sad but in my music from sadness comes the want for happiness and a passion for betterment. I was down and out about a lot of things then music came into play and gave me an outlet.

QUESTION: What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality? 

William Prize: Mostly financial sacrifices, I invest in my craft more than I can take care of my own business sometimes but it comes with the territory. 

QUESTION: What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?

William Prize: Hearing the finished product of a dope idea after its mixed mastered dressed and ready to go most deff. And most discouraging would be whenever I catch writers block or I can’t cook up a fire beat, I be feeling like everything is off when I’m lacking in both departments. 

QUESTION: Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years? 

William Prize: in 10 years I see myself with about 4 successful albums out, traveling the world maybe even dabbling in acting I see my music being a vibe to listen to and it will take you back to a feeling or vibe, so I guess I can say I can see my music being timeless in 10 years. 

QUESTION: What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry? 

William Prize: Don’t be intimidated by what’s “popular” do what feels right to you when it comes to your style. Grow as an artist naturally and stay consistent with it all.  

QUESTION: Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your music?

William Prize: Nothing but just too be on the look out for my tape mind games ! It’s Prize season !!! 

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Exclusive | Jeh $inatra Discusses His Latest Album 'B.LA.C.K.'

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.

B.L.A.C.K., an album by Jeh $inatra on Spotify

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.

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Exclusive | TyShawn Dion is One of the Best Lyricists in Massachusetts

By: Omar Cook

This week's "Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is a dope lyricist from the East Coast, TyShawn Dion! TyShawn hails from Worcester, Massachusetts which is not too far outside of Boston. This hot new artist spent the last 4 years at the University of Connecticut where he was also a student athlete playing football for his first two and a half years there but certain events forced him to walk away. TyShawn Dion brings a fierce delivery that is second to none in today’s hip hop landscape and is definitely an artist that you should keep your eye on for the future! Take it from us, he’s next up.

TyShawn Dion - Look Alive (Gawdly Mix)

We talked with TyShawn Dion in an exclusive interview, check it out below!

QUESTION: How long have you been making music and how did you get started?

TyShawn Dion: I’ve been doing music forever to be honest, since I was a youngin. But I remember writing my first rap when I was like 7 and I’m 22 now so 15 years. Felt like a old head saying that haha but I’ve been taking it dead serious for a few years now. I always say that seeing lil Bow Wow got me started because I wanted to be the youngest doing it, but I feel like it was just in my blood. My older cousins used to try to rap and I would always jump in the cyphers and wash them

QUESTION: Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who are your favorite musicians?

TyShawn Dion: My uncle really influenced me a lot along the way early on and helped me understand that I had a gift but to be honest, it’s mostly been my bros and I trying to figure this whole thing out through trial and error. If you’re talking musical influences I’d have to say it was my favorites growing up like B.I.G, Hov of course, Ye even though he been off of it lately, Kendrick, Cole, Drake, Lauryn Hill and hella others but I feel like you can hear them in my work the most.

TyShawn Dion Freestyle

QUESTION: What artists would you like to collaborate with and why?

TyShawn Dion: Before I die I have to work with Jay, Kendrick, Cole, Drake, Adele, Trav, and Future. Like if I was to get on tomorrow those are the firsts on my list. Every single one of them make music that really pushes me to elevate my craft and showing that I could MORE than hang with them on a record would just really show that I really do this.

QUESTION: What do you feel is your best song ever released and why?

TyShawn Dion: As of now, I’d have to say “Humble Pie” just because it’s my most transparent song that’s been released as of now. It gives you lyrics, melodies, story-telling, a relatable story line, it’s catchy and has hella replay value. That’s my baby but I’m so passed that song. I wrote that like 3 years ago and held it in the vault for a while. NEW AND IMPROVED VERSION SOON

QUESTION: How do you generate new ideas for your music?

TyShawn Dion: All of my music comes from real experiences that I’ve dealt with, or something that an individual close to me has dealt with so I really rely on life itself to push me. Sometimes it’s annoying because if I’m not feeling it, I’m not really excited about it but luckily I’m a really creative writer so I can spin things that I see as boring into something enjoyable.  

QUESTION: What motivates you and how do you define success?

TyShawn Dion: Just remembering all of the trash that my family and I dealt with growing up and never wanting to ever go back to that makes me want to grind. I’m trying to provide better opportunities for them, my friends, and my future family and I know I can really do that with music. I feel like success has a financial component for sure, but that doesn’t mean a damn thing if you’re the ONLY one of your people that are up. Gotta be sure to uplift those that you care about collectively and help develop them holistically

QUESTION: How do you describe your music to people?

TyShawn Dion: My music is a whole vibe. I’m real versatile so it’s hard to put me in a box but I focus on painting vivid pictures for people that are listening. I’d say that you definitely have to listen because I have a lot of lines that go over people's’ head, but you aren’t going to listen to my music and feel like you’re being talked at. I mix bops with words that mean something.

QUESTION: Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?

TyShawn Dion: I feel like in order to be successful as an artist today, you have to be a  have and be a damn personality as well. There are so many fire ass artists that don’t get real recognition because they’re basically an egg on social media. Supporters want to feel like they know you, like they can connect with you on a personal level in addition to being able to enjoy your music.

QUESTION: Who is your greatest inspiration?

TyShawn Dion: My momma, my momma, my momma. I’m a momma’s boy for sure; not on some attached to the booby, “as mommy say, I do” type of time but I just have so much respect for her. She sacrificed so much for us, and raised 3 kids all by herself at 25 after my dad got killed. That’s my queen.

TyShawn Dion - Duppy Freestyle

QUESTION: In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?

TyShawn Dion: If anyone says anything other than Drake they’re lying. His reach is unprecedented at this point. Mans is doing 3 straight sold out shows in the same city, touching a billion streams regularly, and he really just has the Midas touch. If Drake hops on your song as an up and comer, it’s his song now and that’s okay because he just helped jump start your career and get you a plaque. I wouldn’t say “rapper” but I’d say he’s the greatest rap STAR of all-time.

QUESTION: Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?

TyShawn Dion: Lately, it’s definitely been a combination of passion, reminiscence, and hunger. I think that I’m just so focused right now that I can’t help but show it in my music and a lot of that focus is coming from me reflecting on what got me to this point.

QUESTION: What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?

TyShawn Dion: Aside from sleep? I’ve lost friends over this…  The dream played a big part in me walking away from football, and I’ve even had to sacrifice certain aspects of relationships for this. It’s been said so many times but this really is way deeper than music for me.

QUESTION: What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?

TyShawn Dion: Um. I think the most exciting part is getting to share it with my supporters at shows and concerts because as a performer, you get to really hone in on giving that experience that’s going to stick with them every time they hear a song again. A close 1b. has to be when I hear a beat and I really just start writing something, and when I run it back to myself I geek out before I keep writing.

The most discouraging used to be figuring out how to package it, deciding which way I want to deliver it etc. I’m a perfectionist which really annoys me sometimes but I’m really starting to learn to just love the whole process. I’m still learning how to record things and manipulate sounds etc because rapping acapella and putting something on wax are two completely different things; but I know everything comes in time.

QUESTION: Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?

TyShawn Dion: No gas, I see myself toward the forefront of this all. On the largest stage possible. I know that even doing this interview I’m only like 70% bought in because I’m still focusing on other things but there are weeks where I’m at a full blown 100%. It’s coming.

QUESTION: What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?

TyShawn Dion: Be a student of the game. Not just the trends or what wave is hot because all of that fades. When you’re a student of the game, and you know your history or can pull from different genres… if you’ve educated yourself on the BUSINESS side of things as well as focusing on the quality of your music, I think things will work themselves out. The idea of being an “overnight success” has to leave too. I have bros really in the industry, multi-million dollar deals, that got denied left and right for YEARS before it popped; so don’t be afraid to be rejected, invent, and reinvent yourself. I’m doing the same damn thing.

QUESTION: Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your music?

TyShawn Dion: I took some time to focus on rebranding for a while but I’m prepping to drop a few singles very VERY soon (like within the upcoming weeks). Also, I’m almost done drafting and outlining my debut project “Gawds Don’t Die” so stay glued for that. I really love interacting with my supporters so follow me on IG: @diongawdly and find me on twitter @TyShawnDion ! Music is just part of it. I act, I design, I model, hell I might start doing comedy who knows. Stay real to yourself, make sure you go check out “Humble Pie” and all of my other tracks currently out and stay tuned because a majority of those can’t scrape the boot bottoms of what I have coming to y’all next.

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Exclusive | Lyricist DFlowetry is Leaving "No Regrets" With His Rap Career

This week's "Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is west coast rapper DFlowetry! DFlowetry who's real name is Damascus Fields, is a dope lyricist out of Las Vegas, Nevada and his flow is definitely something you need to be paying attention to! This is an artist that is on the rise in hip hop as he is a true artist that matches hot visuals to go with top notch lyrics! DFlowetry has an original flow that is being less and less seen in hip hop today. 

DFlowetry - “Nights Like This” (Music Video)

We talked with DFlowetry in an exclusive interview, check it out below!

Question: How long have you been making music and how did you get started?

DFlowetry: Been doing music for 3 and half years now to be exact. It all started cause i had friends and a older brother that were doing music so i was like let me try it out. I was easily influence by them but never rap to anyone or to my friends, just kinda kept to myself until i was ready to tell them I want to do music. And once I told them, everyone was pretty much surprise but supportive at the same time though.

Question: Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who are your favorite musicians?

DFlowetry: Honestly Kobe Bryant was my biggest influence. Despite him not being a Music Artist, he was the one that gravitated towards me the most cause of his drive and determination to win no matter what. I try take that same approach in my daily life no matter how tough things might get, It builds character. As far as Musicians, Its a long list when it comes to my favorite ones. My top 5 favorites are Michael Jackson, Wiz Khalifa, Kendrick Lamar, Ludacris, and Lil Wayne.

DFlowetry - "No Regrets" (Music Video)

Question: What artists would you like to collaborate with and why?

DFlowetry: That list is long as well, but the two I’ll say is Logic and Wiz Khalifa. Logic because flow wise I think we’ll sound good together on a track, and we might have a little similarities in certain areas. Wiz Khalifa is one of the most versatile artist ever in my opinion so that alone is the reason i will love to work with him.

Question: What do you feel is your best song ever released and why?

DFlowetry: Man Thats a tough one cause I like everything I put out. It can be my worse song I did and I’ll still love it like its my best work. And I think most Artist in general will feel the same way cause most will cherish everything they do for the simple fact they put a lot of time and effort to create a song. But those that support me seem to like “Nights Like this’’ from me out of all the songs I did recently cause they being going hard sharing the video all over twitter for me.

Question: How do you generate new ideas for your music?

DFlowetry: You just got to live your life and experience, That can help a lot when coming up with new music. So I try to do that as much as possible.

Question: What motivates you and how do you define success?

DFlowetry: Seeing others doing well Motivates me. Thats why It doesn’t make sense to me when some people pray on other peoples down falls cause they not successful. Everyone should use someone else success for motivation on what they got going on for them cause I’m a firm believer thats its room for everyone to win if you are doing it right. Thats my way on looking at things, we got to uplift each other. And What defines success to me is when you are able to help family and your close ones financially. Thats real success in my opinion.

Question: How do you describe your music to people?

DFlowetry: I say its Honest, Real, Turnt up, a vibe, and motivational.

Question: Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?

DFlowetry: Not at all! Its no rules to this music game. Everybody that made a name for themselves didn’t do exactly what the next artist did to get recognize. They did what worked for them and sticked with it. But you can follow a successful Artist footsteps and apply it to you and still be yourself.

Question: Who is your greatest inspiration?

DFlowetry: Kobe Bryant and Michael Jackson.

DFlowetry - "The Vent" (Music Video)

Question: In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?

DFlowetry: Easily Drake! Thats a fact. No explanation needed honestly.

Question: Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?

DFlowetry: Passion and joy. The effort I put into a song reflects on how my supporters hears the music. I don’t half ass on a song, I put my all in one song to bring out whatever emotion there is. When you give it a 100 percent, the rest will take care of itself.

Question: What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?

DFlowetry: Till this day Im making sacrifices cause I don’t work a 9 to 5 anymore. I don’t hang out with friends as much as I use to cause I’m pretty much working on me during my spare time.  Those are the two main things I sacrificed and I don’t regret it at all.

Question: What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?

DFlowetry: Finding the beats is the best part of the process to me. Its always a great feeling when you are listening to new beats cause it gets you excited to actually write to it before you even record it. I just like to vibe first before anything. When it comes to sound quality, that can be the most discouraging part in the process of making music honestly. I say that cause most times you get a song back thats done mixing and mastered, Your not going to like it 9 times out of ten. So therefore, your constantly going back and forth with engineers just to get one song or project right on the quality. That right there can be frustrating.

Question: Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?

DFlowetry: Thats to far ahead to look into but I’m going with the flow in the meantime. Hopefully great things is going on for me 10 years from now.

Question: What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?

DFlowetry: I’ll know when I get there, Im still in that process as a upcoming Artist.

Question: Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your music?

DFlowetry: Yes of course. Im a Artist from Las Vegas, NV and been living out here for 15 years now. Prior than living in Las Vegas, I lived in San diego, California and also lived in Okinawa, Japan. I grew up in a Military family and that explains why I was moving around a lot at such a young age. I was born In North Carolina, Fayetteville but only lived there until I was 6 months old. North. Las Vegas is where I’m currently living now and is what I call home now. If you are reading this follow me on all my social media. Everything is @DFlowetry. Stay updated and New Music coming soon.

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Exclusive | Lona Talks the Release of His Upcoming Album '346'

We talked with emerging Houston, Texas rapper, Lona, in an exclusive interview! Just at the age of 21, he is barely scraping the surface of reaching his potential! Lona has gained support through consistent releases on his SoundCloud page, where he is best known for his songs "Have U", "Let U Tell It", and "Real Luv". He is gearing up to release a new album titled 346 later this month! This is an artist you will want to be on the lookout for in the near future!

We talked with Lona in an exclusive interview, check it out below!

Question: How long have you been making music and how did you get started?

Lona: I’ve been making music for about 5 years now. Music has always been something I loved, from being in band to writing songs as a kid but I didn’t start taking it seriously until I started rapping. I used to play basketball and after an injury, I was forced to find another passion. It was a rough time in my life, so I started writing songs to express how I felt and I fell in love with it.

Question: Musically, what are your biggest influences and who are your favorite musicians?

Lona: I could go on forever about artists who have influenced me, because I love so many different kinds of music and I’m a fan of a lot of artists but Tupac, Drake, J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar, Kanye West, and Brent Faiyaz to name a few.

Question: What musician would you most like to collaborate with and why?

Lona: Right now, I would say Drake just because everything he touches is gold and I’ve been a fan since I was like 12 years old so it’d mean a lot to me. Not to mention, he’s crazy talented so I feel like we could make some really dope music together.

Question: What do you feel is your best song you've ever released and why?

Lona: Honestly, I love all my songs but I feel like my best is yet to come. Real Luv is an important song for me though because I feel like that’s when I figured out how to say more with less.

Question: What motivates you and how do you define success?

Lona: I’m motivated by wanting to outdo myself just from a desire to be great, wanting to be able to take care of my family, and being counted out. I would define success as being financially comfortable and stable, buying my mom a house, putting my brother through school, just living out dreams that seemed distant as a kid. I just want to be able to share my art with the world and for people to be able to relate and connect, not all the materialistic shit.

Question: How do you generate new ideas?

Lona: I get ideas from everywhere and everything, so it would be hard to narrow it down to one method but as far as albums go I’ll duck off to look at what’s going on around me or in my life, do some self-reflection and that usually gets things going.

Question: How do you describe your music to people?

Lona: I just let the music speak for itself. I’m a man of few words by choice and I consider myself versatile when it comes to music so I just make whatever I feel at the time. My new project is definitely for driving, late nights, thinking, friends and relationships though. It’s a time piece of where I’m at right now, something people can live to.

Question: Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?

Lona: I do but I feel like every artist has to figure out what that formula is for them. Every artist is different so everything doesn’t work for everybody.

Question: Who is your greatest inspiration?

Lona: So it’s like a 3 way tie. Tupac has always been like a ghost I’m chasing. To finish what he started and just how infectious he was to culture. Then I have to say Drake because he’s been the guy for our time and growing up his music helped me through a lot. I have to also say J. Cole for the same reason as Drake and I can relate to both.

Question: In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?

Lona: Kanye and Drake for obvious reasons, I just feel like they have the ability to connect with people and create soundscapes that a lot of artists can’t which is why I hold them as standards for the level I want to reach.

Question: Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?

Lona: I would say sadness, but it’s subtle. I don’t try to make people sad listening to the music but I feel like my music can be dark even though it feels good. And that’s just because I’ve had more of that in my life than anything but people deal with it so it’s important to talk about. Anger and passion also show up pretty often.

Lona - “Charge it 2 the Game” Music Video

Question: What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?

Lona: I’ve had to sacrifice a lot, from friendships to love to family time but I know it’s all going to pay off.

Question: What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?

Lona: The parts that excite me are telling my story in a creative way and seeing people connecting with it because that’s what I do it for at the end of the day. Music is therapeutic. And the most discouraging part I would say is just not knowing yet if all the work you put in is for nothing or if it’s truly appreciated.

Question: Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?

Lona: In 10 years I want to be on top of the game, 6/7 albums in, God-willing a few Grammys and focusing on pushing my own artists, writing films/shows, fashion, and acting. I don’t want to be pushing 40 still only making money off rap. And I want to be giving back to Houston, helping rebuild schools and improving communities.

Question: What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?

Lona: I’d say to just to be 100% yourself and don’t be easily swayed. That’s probably the most important thing and I don’t feel like I’m in a position yet to just be giving out advice on how to make it. But I would say find a sound you like, study the legends and as long as you have talent and support there’s nothing you can’t do. But it won’t be easy and you can’t trust everyone, I will say that.

Question: Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your music?

Lona: I just want people to know that it’s okay to feel, closing yourself off from emotions is just as bad as being in pain and that’s what I want my music to do. I want it to make people feel something while they’re listening. And my project 346 is dropping this month and I hope they take time to listen, sit with it, and unpack what I’m saying. Listen to it in your room at night or on a road trip or driving through your city. Hopefully everyone loves it like I do and the story I’m telling resonates.

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Exclusive | WAASIKeso is Hip-Hop's Next Great Rap Duo

We talked with Florida rap duo, WaasiKeso, in an exclusive interview! Jiggy Keso and WAASI Shade make up this dynamic lyrical duo! Keso is originally From Queens, New York and WAASI Shade hails from Carol City, Florida otherwise known as Miami Gardens. Keso left New York to attend Florida Atlantic University where the group came together." I enjoy making music and going different places. I want to see as much as I can from this world. I never like to be in one spot or doing the same thing for too long" says Keso. WAASI Shade recently graduated from Florida Atlantic University with a Bachelor’s in communication and besides writing and recording music, his hobbies include basketball, football and inner city youth outreach. 

In a hip hop culture today where flows and style are ever changing, WASSIKeso brings an authentic approach to their music through their lyrics! Listening to their music, you can feel the passion and truth that this duo poors into their songs and it won't be long before you're hearing about this group on a regular basis!

WAASIKeso - “NAME” (Music Video)

We talked with WAASIKeso in an exclusive interview, check it out below!

Question: How long have you been making music and how did you get started?

WAASI Shade: I’ve been making music since I was about 12 years old, and I got started by stealing one of those school microphones from one of my classes. I took it home and download this recording program that I can’t remember the name of right now. I used to record in my crib with all of my homies, I believe some of the songs are still on my myspace. 

Jiggy Keso: I’ve been writing music as long as I can remember. Since a young kid I would remix songs from commercials and eventually started writing to other famous artist’s beats. I learned to make beats in eleventh grade and started recording around 2015 after my uncle died. After his death I vowed to live out the best life I could.

Question: Musically, what are your biggest influences and who are your favorite musicians?

WAASI Shade: My biggest influences musically are Lauryn Hill, Tupac and old Lil Wayne. Reason being is they all played a huge role and my upbringing and represent different personalities that I have in myself. My favorite musicians at the moment are Terrance Martin, Daniel Caesar, Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, SZA & The Sounds of Blackness.

Jiggy Keso: My biggest influence in terms of producing and overall musical intelligence is Kanye West. Lyrically I take a lot from Lil Wayne and Eminem. I like wordplay and I love using punchlines and interchanging phonetics within my verses. Within a verse I try to see how many flows I can fit in.

Question: What musician would you most like to collaborate with and why?

WAASI Shade: The artist that I would love to collaborate with is J. Cole, I feel like I would be able to feed off of the vibe that he would bring into the studio and the discussions we would have before we even record. 

Jiggy Keso: I feel like I could make some dope music with Jhene Aiko. I like soft vibes and her tone when she makes her music is cool. She doesn’t hold her talent back and she always has different vibes between songs.

Question: What do you feel is your best song you've ever released and why?

WAASI Shade: The best song that I feel that I released as a solo artist is this song called “pages” off of my first project ever. Reason being is because of the honesty that I displayed and the way it flowed. Production wise it was trash but I didn’t care about all of that at that time. Ever since we made WAASIKeso our best song that we have released in my opinion is “Shawty’s Interlude”. I love the vibe of that song and the topic that we covered, which is “situationships”.

Jiggy Keso: My best song to me is Kick Back. It isn’t the best produced song that I have ever made but I love the vibe. It is an early song when I was really rough around the edges in terms of what I rapped about and how I sounded on the mic. But it definitely embodies the type of vibes that I love to listen to.

Question: What motivates you and how do you define success?

WAASI Shade: What motivates me is the vison that I have created for myself, which includes inspiring inner city youth through creative outlets such as music. Also I find motivation from my Lil Brother who I want to have a better life than I did growing up because we live in a drug and crime polluted area. I define success as doing something that you love and inspires you to get up every day without the thought that you are wasting your time, plus it gives you the opportunity to continue growing in your respective field of success.

Jiggy Keso: My motivation is my family. And I also love to be someone who always has something going on. I don’t ever want to be in the same place doing the same thing forever. So I work to stay ahead of that. I define success by how happy I am doing what I do and how it can support me and those around me.

Question: How do you generate new ideas?

WAASI Shade: It’s all about conversations and experience when it comes to generating new ideas for me. I believe that ideas are transferred through the day to experiences of life and allowing other people express their perspectives and thoughts to help your creative process.

Jiggy Keso: I generate new ideas by chilling around creatives like myself. Deven and I spend a lot of time around people who have different ways of thinking and it pushes us to expand how we see things.

Question: How do you describe your music to people?

WAASI Shade: I would describe our music as real and relatable because we are vulnerable with things such as relationships, depression, our personality and what we think. One song might feel like a nighttime ride by yourself, the next might feel like a summer day drive to the get some food with the homies. We try to capture different with every song.

Jiggy Keso: I describe my music as really chill. I like low tones and hard bass so I try to have those vibes in my music as well. Even if im on a feature I try to make my part a little different whether its messing with the pitch or adding a deep voice behind my verse.

Question: Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?

WAASI Shade: Nope! We’ve seen a variety of ways towards success with artist, music knows no bounds. It’s an energy with no structure so you never know what type of sound might take off next.

Jiggy Keso: Not really. I think you have to find a fan base and stick to them. Just show love to who shows love to you and people will support you for the most part.

Question: Who is your greatest inspiration?

WAASI Shade: My Grandma, the strength that she has showed raising our whole family and the sacrifice she has made for us is something that can’t be matched.

Jiggy Keso: My mom and dad. Nothing phases them it seems and they always let me know that they got me. I try to emulate them when Im out in public.

WAASIKeso - “Soul Food”

Question: In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?

WAASI Shade: The most influential artist in today’s genre is Kanye West, regardless of whatever comes out of his mouth, it goes without question that he sound carries weight in the industry. The most successful artist to me is J. Cole because he has gotten to a position where his artistry is respected, yet he controls and creates every project that he puts out. He has full on creative freedom to do what he pleases.

Jiggy Keso: I would have to say it’s a tie between Drake, Kendrick Lamar, and J Cole. They seem to shut the industry down when they drop any new music and people are always aligned with one of those three.

Question: Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?

WAASI Shade: Passion by far, I move off of passion and when you can hear the passion in somebody within their songs, it touches you in a different way. You ever listen to Fantasia and be like “damn, I feel that” that’s the feeling that dominates the music I listen to.

Jiggy Keso: Ambition and reflection. Ive been through a lot mentally as has Waasi and we try to let people know that its going to be ok. You got to keep pushing forward when life hits you.

Question: What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?

WAASI Shade: Well me and Keso made a sacrifice by coming together and leaving our solo ambitions to the side in order to make better music together. We could have let our pride get the best of us and continue our Solo Careers but we understand that our chemistry together in something that can take us far.

Jiggy Keso: My sanity. Temporarily. I was in a really dark place for a while and I had to obsess over a certain dream night in and night out. I had to indulge myself into fantasies that I created to keep me at a stable state for a while.

WAASIKeso - “Lights”

Question: What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?

WAASI Shade: When I finally release a project or a song and receive positive reactions from the people that listen. They would text me, call me, or find me person to tell me how much they love our music. It lets me know that we are going in the right direction and that people are excited to hear our music.

Jiggy Keso: Im always excited to record a track. I love rapping over a beat and hearing it back and editing. The possibilities are endless and you get to exercise your creativity.

Question: Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?

WAASI Shade: I see us touring across the world not only performing music but helping urban communities with every stop that we make. Our music will touch millions of people in a positive way. 

Jiggy Keso: Owning and successfully operating a record label.

Question: What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?

WAASI Shade: Patience is Key! But having patience doesn’t mean sit on your ass and wait for an opportunity, you have to go out and work until you create multiple opportunities for yourself.

Jiggy Keso: Love the competition. Don’t beef with any other artists around your city. Work with them. Work together and put your city on. There’s enough money for everybody.

Question: Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your music?

WAASI Shade: Our Music will get to your ears somehow, someway. Plus we are working on more music so stay tuned! WAASIKeso is here to stay, Believe That!!

Jiggy Keso: That it will always improve. The End.

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