Exclusive | Cookbook Talks His Latest Album 'PortLAngeles'
Los Angeles rapper, Cookbook, talks his latest album, 'PortLAngeles', chasing his dreams, and leaving a legacy behind in family and hip hop in an exclusive interview! Check it out here!
“Legacy is a big one for me at this point in my life. First a legacy for my kids to see, then the legacy I left behind in the culture. To be one stitch in this great hip hop tapestry means a lot to me.”
By: Adonis Armstrong
Los Angeles rapper, CookBook, is a rapper and producer who has been in the game for over a decade that goes back to his time with LA Symphony. From playing instruments at family functions to touring for years, Cookbook has but in major work in the underground hip hop scene. Today we will talk about the album PortLAngeles, which is a dope listen for fans of underground hip hip. Cookbook delivers tight rhymes and smooth flows over beats that seamlessly blend boom bap with a blend of modern production. The album’s title pays homage to the Portland and Los Angeles that blends very well throughout the album.
Cookbook - If Ya Say (remix)
We talked with Cookbook in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
How long have you been making music and how did you get started?
Cookbook: I been doing music my whole life literally. My family played instruments and sang at every single party, bar-b-que and get together. We never had a DJ, or any music playing… it was always my family making the music for the party! So I grew up singing Motown, oldies, and blues. At the same time, I growing up, hip hop was my music. I played the piano, sang & listened to rap simultaneously. When it came time for me to make my own music, rap was the natural avenue since it was the music of my youth.
Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who are your favorite musicians?
Cookbook: Well, going along with question 1, I’ll say my dad was my first and #1 influence musically. My whole foundation was learned from and inspired by him. Then, I’ll say my hip hop influences from very young were all of native tongues; De La Soul and Tribe Called Quest especially. Pete Rock & CL Smooth, and Gang Staar. Later on it’s Nas, Dilla and many more…
What artists would you like to collaborate with and why?
Cookbook: Living: Nas, Black Thought, CyHi the Prince.
Deceased: DILLA!
What inspired you to create your LP PortLAngeles?
Cookbook: Surebert, a producer from Portland sent me a batch of beats and said let’s make a song. I heard how dope the beats were and said let’s do a whole project! I wrote and recorded 2 songs immediately and sent them back to him and we were off and running! Since he’s from Portland and I’m from Los Angeles, we just blended the two names and PortLAngeles was born!
What is your favorite track on desert and why?
Cookbook: I love them all, but if I had to pick one, it’s “Blood Type”. It has my favorite flow/pattern on there at the beginning of verse 2, but more importantly the concept was dope and I got to really say some deep shit on it.
Cookbook - Blood Type
What motivates you and how do you define success?
Cookbook: I’m motivated by a lot of things. Personal achievements is high on the list. When a song/beat that I make sounds exactly like what it sounded like in my head, I get great satisfaction. I also thrive off the crowd… I love for people to react to my music positively. When they fuck wit me, it motivates me! Success has many definitions. Mine have changed over the years. Legacy is a big one for me at this point in my life. First a legacy for my kids to see, then the legacy I left behind in the culture. To be one stitch in this great hip hop tapestry means a lot to me.
Oh, and I like making money too!
How do you describe your music to people and what separates you from other artists in your genre?
Cookbook: To people that aren’t big on rap I used to say I rap but sing a lot, so I’m kinda like Nas meets the Black Eye Peas. It’s not true, but it was an easy way to answer them when they asked. To those who know, I think it’s like how my man King describes it… True School progressive. I love lyrics and getting my bars off, but I also come from singing and playing music, so there’s always a melodic aspect to what I do too. There’s the old school esthetic to what I do, but it’s always modern sounding, attempting to push the genre forward as much as I can.
Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?
Cookbook: Yes and no. You can read a how to make it in the game book & do everything exactly right and still not make it. You can have all the natural talent in the world & not work hard enough and not make it. I’ve seen people who bump into success seemingly effortlessly and seen others work harder than anyone else and make it that way too. I think it’s a combination of doing all the steps to success, having talent and working hard that gets most of us there. If there is a formula that I believe in, it’s perseverance. One thing I know, you WILL win on some level if you don’t give up!
CookBook & Surebert- Magic (We Can Do)- Official Video
Who is your greatest inspiration?
Cookbook: My father for sure. Felipe Santiago Soto RIP
In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?
Cookbook: NAS. For one, he made my all-time favorite rap album: Illmatic. He’s still around after a 30+ year career and he’s releasing some of his best work in his late 40’s! Not only that, he’s a great investor too and is soooo paid he can do whatever he wants in music with zero pressure. He chillin! THAT’S success!
Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?
Cookbook: I’ve always been a very positive, upbeat person and that emotion lives in my music. Even when goin in on tougher subjects, I’m programmed to bring it back around to positivity! It’s hard for me to stay mad… virtually impossible! I probably can’t stay mad long enough to write an angry song!!!
What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
Cookbook: I sacrificed college, a “regular” career, relationships, gave up another dream in the art world. Lost a few girlfriends, lived broke AF, and put off doing a lot of things normal people do that aren’t pursuing music. I stayed on tour for YEARS missing family events galore… that’s just naming a few things!
What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?
Cookbook: I love making the music. Every aspect of it. I love making beats, writing raps, writing songs, recording. I’m discouraged by the marketing/business side of the music. It’s the part that creatives have the most trouble with.
Lounge Music By CookBook & Surebert - OFFICIAL VIDEO
Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?
Cookbook: I’ll probably be somewhere in some small town on tour singing the blues and playin the piano feeling old AF but loving it!
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER UP AND COMING ARTISTS OR PEOPLE LOOKING TO BREAK INTO THE MUSIC INDUSTRY?
Cookbook: Put a lot into your craft. Know as much if every aspect of music making as possible. Learn how to write great hooks. They sell your song way more than your bars do. Find like-minded people who feel it’s their vision to help you make your vision happen. You need them! Someone who can help you in the studio, but more importantly in the business! A manager type who’ll rude wit you. Jay-Z needed his Dame Dash… and so do you.
Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your music?
Cookbook: I just want them to FWM! Take a listen to Jason Soto Was Here. I released that in 2019. It says everything about me and I out every aspect of what I do into those songs. It’s the best representation of me and what I do. After you listen to that, listen to ALL my other music on repeat!!!
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Exclusive | J Hawk Talks the Release of His Latest Project 'Mixed Emotions'
North Carolina rapper, J Hawk talks family, having music as his therapy, and his recent project Mixed Emotions in an exclusive interview! Check it out here!
“My family motivates me and success to me is when they are all good and not just me.”
By: Adonis Armstrong
North Carolina rapper, J Hawk brings that late night, riding in the car vibe and it’s hard to find a bad track from this rising artist. His most recent project, Mixed Emotions, features 10 must listen to tracks; all fire, no skips! He also recently collaborated with fellow NC artist, Worve, on a hot new single “Out the Window”. J Hawk is one to keep an eye on and is set to drop more new music in 2023.
J Hawk ft. Worve - Out The Window (Official Video)
We talked with J Hawk in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
How long have you been making music and how did you get started?
J Hawk: I’ve been making music for about 10 years now and I got started back in high school rapping with friends.
Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who are your favorite musicians?
J Hawk: One of my favorite artist is Drake. I like his delivery, flow and what he talks about in his music.
What artists would you like to collaborate with and why?
J Hawk: Drake, J. Cole, Tory Lanez, Bryson Tiller, The Weeknd, H.E.R., Big Sean, PartyNextDoor, Giveon, Beyoncé, Jhene Aiko, Bad Bunny, Lil Baby. The list goes on!
What inspired you to create your EP “Mixed Emotions”?
J Hawk: Just life. To help me vent. It’s my therapy.
What is your favorite track on the project and why?
J Hawk: Reasons, I like the way it all came together.
How do you generate new ideas for your music?
J Hawk: Sometimes conversations with friends, family, and certain vibes help me make new music.
What motivates you and how do you define success?
J Hawk: My family motivates me and success to me is when they are all good and not just me.
How do you describe your music to people and what separates you from other artists in your genre?
J Hawk: It’s more riding music, that certain people can relate to. I like to make my music meaningful.
Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?
J Hawk: I couldn’t tell you the formula. I’m not sure there is one.
J Hawk - Reasons
Who is your greatest inspiration?
J Hawk: Mom and pops.
In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?
J Hawk: Drake for sure. He has timeless music and the numbers speak for themselves.
Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?
J Hawk: I would say “personally” I like to make every line I write down to be felt. Whoever has came in my life and has had a moment with me, I want them to be able to hear it and remember that moment we had.
What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?
J Hawk: Going into the studio and laying it down and playing it back. Just hearing it all come together feels amazing.
J Hawk - Moving Forward
Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?
J Hawk: On top like I’ve seen for years.
Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your music?
J Hawk: I’ve played in the NFL, I’ve acted on Hulu, in movie theaters and commercials. I’ve modeled for companies and been on billboards. I’ve made great music and now that I turn 30 this year I see that this will be my best year yet!
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Exclusive | Yannie Jones Talks The Release Of Her Debut EP "Fazes"
Inglewood singer, Yannie Jones talks the release of her debut EP, Fazes, and being influenced by her mother to pursue music in an exclusive interview! Check it out here!
“I just want to make music that helps people heal through their hurt.”
By: Omar Cook
Inglewood singer, Yannie Jones, dropped her debut EP titled Fazes. The EP has 4 hot tracks with features from P1, and Steve G. Lover III. From the jump, Fazes opens up with a dope upbeat vibe with her track “P1” and finishes with a laid back banger, “Temporary”. The EP definitely will leave you wanting to hear more from this upcoming west coast artist. artist.
“I am Yannie Jones and I'm from Inglewood, CA. I have my Bachelors Degree in Psychology with a concentration on adolescent development. I finished school after having my son, in 2017. I am a full believer in doing what feels right at the right time. My journey has taken me through some different detours, or Fazes if you will, but I am proud of where it has landed me. Entering my 3rd decade of life, I have crossed so much off my list of goals and plan to keep setting and reaching them. With years of content and life experience, I am so excited for what the future holds. God has given me gifts I wasn't able to see until now and I plan on using them for the rest of my days.”
Yannie Jones - Show Me (feat. P1)
We talked with Yannie Jones in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
How long have you been making music and how did you get started?
Yannie Jones: Well, I come from a family of music lovers, singers and musicians. I've been singing since I could talk. But, I recorded my first song when I was 15 years old. A group of my friends wanted to start a management agency; it was called “The Circle”, and I was one of their proteges. They booked my first studio session.
Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who are your favorite musicians?
Yannie Jones: My mom has always been my biggest influence. She was signed to Motown in the 80s and is the reason I love to sing. She would play Anita Baker, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Tamia, and Deborah Cox on our rides to and from school. She would drive an expedition full of girls who loved to sing and mainly because of how enjoyable she made it seem. It made us happy - still does.
What artists would you like to collaborate with and why?
Yannie Jones: I really like Vedo. Other than his voice being beautiful, I respect his hustle and how he came up from covers and just showcasing his talent proudly. I also have to thank him for his song “You got it” … I went through a faze where I was really unappreciated in a previous relationship and my best friend sent me that song. I cried and listened to it on repeat for dayssss. It helped me out the funk.
What inspired you to create your EP “Fazes”?
Yannie Jones: I was actually working on an album. (I still am.) In the midst of that, I created “Fazes” unintentionally. ¾ songs were created in one 4-hour session. The 4th song was made the next day. They seemed to tell a very clear story of different moments in life and love and the idea of making it an EP just came to me. It made sense that it would be my “hello” to the music scene officially.
What is your favorite track on the project and why?
Yannie Jones: Honestly, it changes every day. Right now, I'd say my favorite is “Never Thought” ft. Steve G. Lover. The song is full of feelings I’ve had multiple times in life. I love remembering the writing process and how naturally it came together. Then of course the vulnerability in the lyrics. We’re always hopeful in the beginning but most of the time, it ain't what we thought it would be, right?
How do you generate new ideas for your music?
Yannie Jones: Typically I'll hear a melody on a beat or think a phrase would be a cool song concept and I go from there. I hate forcing things so I pray on them, let go and let God.
What motivates you and how do you define success?
Yannie Jones: My son, Nieko, is the biggest motivation I could ever dream of. After having him, I realized I could do anything. As long as I don't waste my time here on earth, use all of my blessings and never stop trying, I’ll be successful.
How do you describe your music to people and what separates you from other artists in your genre?
Yannie Jones: I would describe my music as relatable. I think when listening to my music, you know I wrote it and went through it. I don't know if that separates me but I don't really want to know. I just want to make music that helps people heal through their hurt.
Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?
Yannie Jones: I guess it's proven that things have helped artists be successful - mainly money. But I always love to see it when talent is the reason behind someone’s big break! Not just a great marketing scheme. Like Bryson Tiller who borrowed $600 for a set up and changed his own life. No marketing scheme told him to buy that set up. That was meant to happen.
Yannie Jones - Temporary
Who is your greatest inspiration?
Yannie Jones: My family. In them, I have such a solid foundation. It's because of them I am not afraid to fail. I can make a million mistakes and fall down a trillion times and they will be there to pick me up and tell me to keep going. I need them. They will forever be my inspiration and reminder to focus on my own path.
In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?
Yannie Jones: I looooove me some Jhene! As a person, her genuineness is so beautiful. I've met Jhene a couple times just being from LA and being tied to a few of the same people but when I see her she is always so humble and greets me with love. Idk if she does that to everybody but I be feelin special. Lol. She sings her ass off. She's so relatable. She is movingly melodic. She's a mom. She’s a family person. She’s from LA! Yea, Jhene is my girl. Love her and all of her influence. Love to see her succeed and continue to rise.
Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?
Yannie Jones: Passion is a good one! My mood changes so much, one beat can make me feel sad and another can make me feel excited and proud. But I am passionate about it all.
What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
Well, I work 2 jobs. Im raising a 5 year old black boy and still investing in myself and my dreams. I know I’m just getting started but it's all been out of pocket and I'm doing it because I have a little person watching me. I never want him to give up on what he loves doing. No matter how long it takes. So the answer is time. I think time is the biggest sacrifice I’ve made. My journey is full of speed bumps and stop signs and Ima keep going. But I be tired. Lol.
What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?
Hearing it back! Hearing what I wrote in the bathtub or the voice memo I made in the car on wax, that is the most exciting part to me. The discouraging part is when I hear counterproductive opinions. People can be so evil and not realize how sensitive artists can be. I’m working on not letting that affect me.
Yannie Jones - Never Thought (feat. Steve G. Lover III)
Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?
Well for starters out of my email! I've been collecting the bounces of my studio sessions for 15 years and this is the first time I've dropped a project. I'm recording with intent and I want multiple No.1s! I also work in behavior therapy and as an outreach coordinator, so I want to expand that and have somewhat of a big brother big sister entity and curate events that will enrich the child experience to be more enjoyable and therapeutic. I think we all need therapy and should not wait until we're adults to get it.
What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?
Do what makes sense to you. And be honest with yourself. So when the going gets tough, you know why you're doing it and nothing can distract you or change what you already know is right for you.
Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your music?
Album comin soooooon!
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Exclusive | Maui Max Talks His Motivation To Change Lives Through Music
East Coast rapper, Maui Max talks using his music to change lives and setting a blueprint for his kids in exclusive interview! Check it out here!
“Everything I say in my music are real emotions and things that I go through whether it’s a hype song or something you can just ride to. You never have to worry about me fabricating anything or being something i’m not; I give you the good and the bad.”
By: Omar Cook
This week's "Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is East Coast rapper, Maui Max! This 25 year old artist was born in Newark, New Jersey but now resides in Atlanta, Georgia. We’ve interviewed a lot of talented artists on this platform, and this is easily one of the most under the radar rappers out right now. Maui Max brings a dope flow with raw lyrics and just about every song is a banger in it’s own right. He does a good job of making music you can vibe to, and music you can turn up to while still holding true to his own originality. Slept on is an understatement, and if you’re looking for new music for your playlist, this artist has to be added.
Maui Max - Want It All (Prod. by LaCoMusic)
We talked with Maui Max in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
QUESTION: How long have you been making music and how did you get started?
Maui Max: Been making music seriously for about 6 years. I moved from Jersey to Georgia in 2011, got a job at a clothing store and one of the managers told me I looked like somebody who would hang out with his little brother lol. So one day he introduced me then me and bro been rocking ever since, come to find out he does music not only rap, but produces and engineers as well. I always wanted to rap but at the time I didn’t think it was realistic and in Jersey there weren’t many platforms or studios that I knew of. Being a fly on the wall and watching the homies work, doing features here and there and being pushed to take it seriously, I said why not? I’m going to make my own mixtape and it was on from there.
QUESTION: Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who are your favorite musicians?
Maui Max: My biggest influence can’t just be one person, it’s a whole plethora of artists I look up to but if I had to name any off top it would be Pac, Jay Z, Nas, Curren$y, Dom Kennedy, Schoolboy Q, Cole, Wiz, Cudi, and the late great Nipsey Hussle not just because he’s gone now. People that know me knows what he meant to me alive. It’s hard because i’m a rap music guy and so many artist have a big influence on who I am as a person and style as an artist. 9/10 if they from LA they probably had an impact on me at some point, I love the culture and authenticity of the westcoast.
QUESTION: What artists would you like to collaborate with and why?
Maui Max: Most people I would like to collab with are people I would like to just sit down and chop it up with, get game, ask questions, build far beyond music, people who I identified with and said “We be thinking the same shit.” So I guess it would be my idols and influencers I named previously. I don’t really have anybody in particular i’m just dying to work with, I let stuff like that happen naturally. Matter fact, Pharrell, when he collabs with artists he brings this classic feeling.
QUESTION: What do you feel is your best song/project ever released and why?
Maui Max: TO ME my favorite song that I released will probably be “Work” produced by the homie Waitmattno. The bars and flow are effortless and when people want to hear me for the first time that is my go to track. It gets people moving. Song is so old but timeless, I had a lot to get off my chest and I was angry because somebody told me that my music was alright so I said i’ll show them how alright I am and boom, everyone’s favorite song by me was made lol. It’s been so hard to recreate something like that.
QUESTION: What projects can we look forward to in the near future?
Maui Max: I have my first full length project dropping summer time 2019 executively produced by the dude I said I met and got me into music LaCo. It’s so dope so far I can’t wait for people to hear it and also see the visuals, it’s a reintroduced me. Don’t have a name for it yet as I like things to come naturally, we just building the product til it’s ready 100%.
QUESTION: How do you generate new ideas for your music?
Maui Max: Live. I just speak about what i’m feeling. I feel like you can never run out of ideas if you just being you.
QUESTION: What motivates you and how do you define success?
Maui Max: My kids motivate me, I got 2 boys, the world motivates me, cause I love it so much but hate it at times. I always wanted to go out in a blaze of glory fighting for what I believe in and that’s the betterment of my people. When it’s my time to go I want my boys to be able to say I was a real G. I want the world to remember and carry my name, I want to set a blueprint for them. That’s success to me, forget about the money give me a platform to say what I feel needs to be said and done to change lives. I’m also motivated by working for other people because I hate it.
QUESTION: How do you describe your music to people and what separates you from other artists in your genre?
Maui Max: I just say I don’t rap like anybody you’ve heard and that’s because I really believe that. Nobody sounds like me and I don’t sound like anybody. Especially people my age and coming up like I am. I rap how I think a dope rapper should approach a beat not what I think everybody wants to hear.
QUESTION: Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?
Maui Max: Music is powerful. There’s definitely blueprints to follow but I think you can pick and choose what you think would work for you, there’s no right or wrong way to do this and that’s the beauty of it, I think people who want to make money come up with all these analytics and cheat codes but if you genuinely want to reach people you just got to be you, be relatable. Say something, help raise these kids through your music.
QUESTION: In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?
Maui Max: Hands down Hov, could have been Nipsey if given more time (RIP) but look at where Hov came from and where he’s at. The fact that he’s basically 50 and selling out american tours and can drop a album and it’s a big event alone proves that. When that man talks, we listen.
QUESTION: Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?
Maui Max: It’s a mix of everything because I’ve been through so much these past couple of years, it really just depends on how i’m feeling in that moment. I’m human and I display that in the music.
Maui Max - #Work (Prod. by WMN)
QUESTION: What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
Maui Max: Giving up drugs, I have my fun, but I started realizing that partying hard and doing things to tear up my body was taking a toll on what I was making when I really thought it was helping. Having to record in a hot ass garage sweating non stop just to get things done that I might not even like. Taking time away from my kids wishing I can be with them more. Spending my last to make sure I get good quality product so y’all can take me seriously. A whole lot more.
QUESTION: What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?
Maui Max: I don’t get excited until the song is done. Most times I already have a pre thought on how I think it will sound and if it doesn’t come out how I thought or want, i’m hurt. So once the main parts of a song is done that’s when I REALLY start to get creative that’s the part that excites me. The writing process can be discouraging sometimes because I can’t always think of something dope to say and I start to overthink. I put a lot of thought into what I put out. Im starting to break out of that though and just free myself and have fun again while still keeping the integrity of the music alive.
QUESTION: Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?
Maui Max: Lord willing doing big things, things I always knew I would do, things I never thought I could do. Owning businesses, opening schools, being a real boss.
QUESTION: What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?
Maui Max: If you need to, it’s okay to take a break, don’t kill yourself. I went crazy about this thing a million times, it really messes with your head and that’s why you always see these depressed artists. You got hella time, take it to make the best product possible and not the quickest. Also, know what you doing it for if you want to last long, have a purpose, a goal that music can open the doors for. You think big you’ll be big, we different, don’t let small minded people talk you into thinking you tripping I promise you’re not.
QUESTION: Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your music?
Maui Max: Everything I say in my music are real emotions and things that I go through whether it’s a hype song or something you can just ride to. You never have to worry about me fabricating anything or being something i’m not; I give you the good and the bad. Some songs may be a cry for help, some may be me just saying i’m good now and I was bugging but you’ll always know its coming from me.
IG: @Mauimax
Twitter: @Mauimaxx
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Exclusive | TJ Upshaw Talks His New EP 'One 4 Her' and Giving Back to Detroit
Detroit singer, TJ Upshaw, discusses the released of his new EP One 4 Her'and putting on for his city with music that people can vibe and relate to in an exclusive interview! Check it out here!
By: Omar Cook
This week's "Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is Detroit’s very own TJ Upshaw! TJ is an R&B artist and songwriter who is bringing back the true sound and soul of R&B music. He recently dropped his new single “ONE 4 HER”, where his vocals capture the audience’s attention with a genuine feeling of passion and emotion. TJ developed his gifted talent for music growing up singing in multiple choirs and male quartet groups. He has recorded two mixtapes and just recently released his sophomore EP, "One 4 Her". This rising singer has had the opportunity to perform at many live venues between Detroit and LA at universities and clubs, opening for mainstream artists such as Wiz Khalifa, Big Sean, Eric Bellinger, Sammie, Dwele and J Drew Sheard and Day26. This an artist that you should definitely add to your playlist if you like real R&B, don’t sleep!
TJ Upshaw - Options (Music Video)
We talked with TJ Upshaw in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
QUESTION: How long have you been making music and how did you get started?
TJ Upshaw: I’ve been making music since 05/06... I was in my senior year of high school and it all started by just doing hooks for rappers that went to school with me.
QUESTION: musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who are your favorite musicians?
TJ Upshaw: I don’t know if I can say who had the biggest influence because I studied so many R&B greats. From Motown, 80ʼs & 90ʼs R&B, to a lot of artists from my generation. If I had to pick though, it’ll have to be Tank. Bro a hell of a artist, performer, singer and songwriter! At the end of the day that’s what I’m working towards.
QUESTION: What artists would you like to collaborate with and why?
TJ Upshaw: I would love to work with Chris Brown, Usher, Trey Songz, Sammie, Tank, Eric Bellinger... just to name a few dope R&B dudes!
QUESTION: what do you feel is your best song/project ever released and why?
TJ Upshaw: I think my best project is One 4 Her II - it’s all me. Its flavors to it. All kinds of vibes. It really shows my range as an artist and songwriter.
QUESTION: What projects can we look forward to in the near future?
TJ Upshaw: I will Be releasing my first album 3rd quarter of 2019.
QUESTION: How do you generate new ideas for your music?
TJ Upshaw: Most of my music is just life situations. Lifeʼs feelings. I have ppl that come to me for advice at times... itʼs just so much that gives me inspiration musically. I really just try to make music that people can relate and vibe to.
QUESTION: What motivates you and how do you define success?
TJ Upshaw: Success in my eyes is defined as happiness. If youʼve reached that level of where youʼre completely happy, then congrats. Youʼve made it! My motivation is my family. Being their provider and seeing them smile is all the motivation I need to keep going.
QUESTION: How do you describe your music to people and what separates you from other artists in your genre?
TJ Upshaw: I call it #theVIBEofRnB - itʼs a feel. It creates a memory. Therefore whenever you hear it for the rest of your life itʼll create a vibe. Iʼm not too much worried about other artists in my genre. Iʼm in my own lane.
QUESTION: Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?
TJ Upshaw: Naw no formula. What God has written is written. Just gotta put in yo work.
QUESTION: Who is your greatest inspiration?
TJ Upshaw: One of my inspirations is Big Sean. Coming from where Iʼm from and becoming one of the biggest artist in the world says a lot within itself. Not to mention all he gives back to the city. Thatʼs what itʼs about. Sharing your gift.
QUESTION: In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?
TJ Upshaw: I would have to say Chris Brown. Heʼs the modern day MJ! Fasho Fasho!
QUESTION: Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?
TJ Upshaw: Passion. I write and record with passion so thatʼs what you hear over the track.
QUESTION: What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
TJ Upshaw: when dream-chasing you gotta isolate yourself from everybody, sometimes including yourself. Just to really map out how we goin make this thing pop. Once you figure that out you start to build your circle of individuals thatʼs on the same thing you on. So i sacrificed a lot of friendships to pursue this. We still good.. just not to the same extent as before. Iʼm on a mission!
QUESTION: What aspect of the music making process excites you most?
TJ Upshaw: I think the process of creating melodies & writing is lit. Thereʼs sooooo many different ways to say things and get your point across.
QUESTION: Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?
TJ Upshaw: in 10 years? A couple Grammys.. multi-platinum albums. Those are just a few goals.
QUESTION: What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?
TJ Upshaw: In a world full of fugazziness, BE YOU! Every dream can become reality. You just gotta take the initiative to make it happen.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Exclusive | Lylo Gold Talks the Release of Her Debut Album 'Heartbreak & Wray'
London R&B singer, Lylo Gold talks the release of her debut album, Heartbreak & Wray! We talked with Lylo Gold in an exclusive interview! Check it out here!
By: Omar Cook
This week's "Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is London based R&B songstress Lylo Gold! Lylo Gold recently released her debut album entitled ‘Heartache & Wray’, following a turbulent relationship which featured an array of melodic sounds that introduces you into her own world. This artist is building an impressive resume with over 250,000 accrued plays on Spotify and has also been featured on The Fader, The MOBO's Ones to Watch and The AfroPunk Playlist, making her an artist to watch throughout the UK and beyond.
Lylo Gold began singing at a young age of 11, and now at 25 years old, she has gone on to compose, write and co-produce an array of songs alongside a variety of artists. She is mostly known for some iconic releases including Starry Night & Over U, which were produced by frequent collaborator XVR BLCK. The UK has a number of talented artists, and Lylo Gold is another proven talent coming out of London. This artist has a voice that needs to be heard and don’t be surprised if you start hearing her name more in the near future!
We talked with Lylo Gold in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
QUESTION: How long have you been making music and how did you get started?
A: I’ve been making music forever! I started writing poems and lyrics when I was around 7 and I started singing on stage at 11. I’ve always made music... I just lacked the confidence to front my own music. Until... (drum roll) NOW!!
QUESTION: Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who are your favorite musicians?
Lylo Gold: My biggest influence is Mariah Carey. I love her! Her voice is like water! It’s so incredible. I love male singers usually so I’m shocked really but I love so many artists! From Donell Jones, Usher, The Whispers, Earth Wind and Fire, Jasmine Sullivan, Whitney, Nai Palm, Amy Winehouse, Lauryn Hill, Erykah, Xavier Omar!!! Boys II Men... I just love a beautiful vocal!
Lylo Gold
Photo by: Gillian Murray
QUESTION: What artists would you like to collaborate with and why?
Lylo Gold: I really want to work with Anderson Paak - he has this freedom in his music and a personality with it that I think evokes ideas in me from listening... to imagine a session. With his creativity and mine.... ooh... I get really excited! I feel this way about Q Tip, Pharrell, Beyonce... the list is extensive!
QUESTION: What do you feel is your best song/project ever released and why?
Lylo Gold: Heartache and Wray... I actually love the project now - which is weird because we have a weird relationship. I loved the fact that I got expressive and experimental and allowed my vocals to really shine on this project... I’m not like one of those people who just care about my voice... I love the whole dynamic of a song, which I feel was expressed on this project.
QUESTION: What projects can we look forward to in the near future?
Lylo Gold: Amazing music, stunning videos and a reality tv show.... honestly!
QUESTION: How do you generate new ideas for your music?
Lylo Gold: Music comes to me, I don’t look for it. Songs are already there... it’s just not everyone can hear them. I think I just channel what’s already there. Its the magic... it’s like you hear a language that no one else can hear - like Parsel tongue in Harry Potter - it’s wizardry!
QUESTION: What motivates you and how do you define success?
Lylo Gold: Life is my motivation. Life is all about balance, progression, growth and love. I try to treat the world how I want to be treated. I try to be as loving as I can... I believe that we are all connected and all contribute to the state of the world. That makes me responsible. It means I know my place in the world and what I need to contribute to the world.
QUESTION: How do you describe your music to people?
Lylo Gold: I literally say. “You tell me”. My music to me sounds like different things dependent on my mood and where I am at emotionally when I listen.
QUESTION: Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?
Lylo Gold: Yes, by committing yourself to your craft, respecting and believing in your craft. I think people have to invest in their talents... they have to see the value in it before anyone else does.
QUESTION: Who is your greatest inspiration?
Lylo Gold: My mum. She’s a Queen. She had two sets of twins and bossed at being a phenomenal mother!
QUESTION: In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?
Lylo Gold: Beyonce…she works her arse off. There really isn’t anything more to say. Hard work pays off!
QUESTION: Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?
Lylo Gold: Love. Because I am love.
QUESTION: What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
Lylo Gold: lol.... how much space do I have? I sacrificed time with my family, time with my friends, sleep, relationships, I’ve worked jobs I’ve hated, endured people I don’t like... allowed people to do things that I dislike for the sake of peace... I’ve made so many sacrifices! Especially financially!
QUESTION: What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?
Lylo Gold: Writing the songs and adding the harmonies and ad libs! I love this stuff lol I like chords so I guess the creativity. I hate recording :(
QUESTION: Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?
Lylo Gold: Several awards. Several platinum plaques... I see myself happy with a family and a music school!
QUESTION: What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?
Lylo Gold: Work hard. Not just on your instrument, on yourself... work on your energy, your emotions, then your craft... your understanding of music.. learn as much as you can. Learn how people operate. Learn about the legalities...Learn to protect your talent.
QUESTION: Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your music?
Lylo Gold: I’m going to be releasing some of my best work in 2019. Follow me!!!
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Exclusive | Rapper & Poet Kafar Myers Looks to Save Lives Through Music and Books
East Coast rapper and poet, Kafar Myers discusses his purpose to save lives through music and books! We talked with Kafar Myers in an exclusive interview! Check it out here!
By: Omar Cook
This week's "Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is East Coast rapper, Kafar Myers! Myers was born in Union County, New Jersey and spent his adolescent years in Tobyhanna, Pennsylvania. Myers credits listening to a J. Cole album for getting him to the art of storytelling. “I felt like he was speaking to me — I was fascinated by how he put images in my head off of words. It was mind blowing!” Myers creates a 90’s nostalgic vibe mixed with a dope delivery and down to earth lyrics. Aside from his love of making music, Myers is also a self-published author and put out his first book of poetry titled ‘Soulful Of Me’ . Myers currently has two mixtapes out called “No Hope Neglected” & “Adolescent Journal”. Artists like this, is the reason we do artist of the week, to bring you that hidden talent, and this artist is talented to say the least!
Kafar Myers - Colored Flaws (Music Video)
We talked with Kafar Myers in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
QUESTION: How long have you been making music and how did you get started?
Kafar Myers: I’ve been making music for about 4 years, I started my freshmen year in high school, and I got inspired so much after hearing the song “Changes” by Tupac Shakur. He was talking about everything that was going on with his music, so I thought to myself why not do the same.
QUESTION: Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who are your favorite musicians?
Kafar Myers: My biggest influence in helping me is my older cousin Vince and my friend thats like a brother named pc.
QUESTION: What artists would you like to collaborate with and why?
Kafar Myers: Honestly im not sure maybe like Lupe fiasco or Meek Mill
QUESTION: What do you feel is your best song/project ever released and why?
Kafar Myers: My best song that is out right now is “Remember” because it’s well structured with a bridge, has a great chorus, and the content of the song is extremely relatable! My best project is gonna be the one that’s coming out in January, it’s me on a whole higher level.
QUESTION: What projects can we look forward to in the near future?
Kafar Myers: My newest project is coming out in January available on Spotify, Apple music, Tidal and etc, also I have another Poetry book coming out in spring that will be available on amazon.com!
QUESTION: How do you generate new ideas for your music?
Kafar Myers: Mostly off of walking through the town, or digging deep within past experiences I have had or just me wanting to be creative.
QUESTION: What motivates you and how do you define success?
Kafar Myers: What motivates me is change, being able to provide for those I need to, me being able to save lives through music or books or helping to inspire someone. My definition of success is someone who is not struggling and happy with what they are doing. If someone was a cook at burger king and they are happy and not struggling on bills and providing for their family they are successful in my opinion.
QUESTION: How do you describe your music to people?
Kafar Myers: I describe my music as pain mixed with soul sprinkled in poetry baked with heavy thoughts and served with passion!
Kafar Myers - Long Way Ft. Roll Sumthin' (Official Music Video)
QUESTION: Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?
Kafar Myers: To be honest nowadays I think it’s just about building a connection with your supporters creating that foundation. Also I think it’s also important to have a great team as well.
QUESTION: Who is your greatest inspiration?
Kafar Myers: My mother, making her proud means everything to me. I can’t wait till I get a deal or just blow up and get her her own house.
QUESTION: In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?
Kafar Myers: in my opinion it’s easily Drake if we are talking my era but I was born in 1999 so I can also say Jay Z easily no question of all time!
QUESTION: Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?
Kafar Myers: The emotion that drives and mostly dominates my music is pain, and disappointment.
QUESTION: What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
Kafar Myers: Wow theres so many, a lot of isolated days, a lot of feeling misplaced and yearning to feel and have some people who’s on the same mental space you are on. You have to sacrifice time, friendships, money, your wants and even have to sacrifice your pride.
QUESTION: What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?
Kafar Myers: The part of making music I love the most is recording in the studio! Its my escape from the whole world. Its like all the problems and others things are on mute. Also I love performing seeing people enjoy my music in person. There’s not nothing discouraging at all in my opinion.
QUESTION: Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?
Kafar Myers: I see myself being a top selling author and being one of the biggest and most influential rappers there has ever been! Selling out shows giving back to communities, building schools and much more.
QUESTION: What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?
Kafar Myers: My advice is always believe in self and stay true to self. Keep good company, do it for the passion and the love, then the money will come later. Grind and save don’t ever settle, use let downs and tragedy as fuel, not an excuse!
QUESTION: Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your music?
Kafar Myers: I have a poetry book out right now on amazon.com its called “Soulful Of Me”
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Exclusive | Malcolm Taylor Talks Regaining His Faith and Inspiring People Through Music
Philadelphia rapper, Malcolm Taylor, talks regaining his faith after the birth of his son and using his voice to inspire the world. We talked with Malcolm Taylor in an exclusive interview! Check it out here!
By: Omar Cook
This week's "Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is Philly rapper, Malcolm Taylor! This rapper uses his talents to paint a vivid picture with his lyrics based on his life experiences and uses his voice to spread a conscious, positive message. Malcolm has a versatility in his flow that makes each song feel different and keeps you entranced with the story telling. He remains authentic to his own delivery and separates himself from mainstream artists with his own style. This is an artist you need in your playlist.
Malcolm Taylor - PRAY PRAY PRAY (Music Video)
We talked with Malcolm Taylor in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
Question: How long have you been making music and how did you get started?
Malcolm Taylor: I been making music for over six years now. I can’t really tell you when I started, it’s just always been around me.
Question: Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who are your favorite musicians?
Malcolm Taylor: No one actually, I get inspiration from life, experiences, and what ever moves me. Some of my favorites are Biggie, 2pac, Jay-Z, Nas, DMX, OutKast, Kanye West, and Lauryn Hill just to name a few. I could really go on for days with naming my favorites.
Malcolm Taylor - Heart in it (Music Video)
Question: What artists would you like to collaborate with and why?
Malcolm Taylor: At the moment I would say J. Cole and Ty Dolla. I pick Cole because we would compliment each other by giving our point of views on what ever we choose to rhyme about. Ty Dolla brings a different element and vibe. Simply picked him because I enjoy his music.
Question: What do you feel is your best song/project ever released and why?
Malcolm Taylor: I really couldn’t tell you that, I put my all into everything. The one I have more of a personal connection with is a song titled “Faith” on my 1st project titled Commemorate. When I talk about losing my faith when my mother was murdered to gaining it back when my son was born.
Malcolm Taylor - PITY (Music Video)
Question: What projects can we look forward to in the near future?
Malcolm Taylor: I’m working on so much music that my fans just might get more than two projects from me in 2019.
Question: How do you generate new ideas for your music?
Malcolm Taylor: A lot of times I let the the production talk to me. If it doesn’t touch my soul I don’t write or even want to put my energy towards it. The best is like a canvas and what ever it tells me to paint I just go for it.
Question: What motivates you and how do you define success?
Malcolm Taylor: What motivates me is my purpose. My purpose is to be that voice that inspires others, and motivate them in an artistic way.
Question: How do you describe your music to people?
Malcolm Taylor: It’s a heartfelt experience!
Question: Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?
Malcolm Taylor: Not at all. I feel like everybody has their own path to success.
Question: Who is your greatest inspiration?
Malcolm Taylor: So many things but life, my son, my parents, my fans, music and God.
Question: In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?
Malcolm Taylor: I would have to say Jay-Z. We have to sit back and see everything this guy has really accomplished with his team. It’s amazing to me on so many levels. He just continues to break barriers and open doors for artists to really be moguls and business owners.
Question: Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?
Malcolm Taylor: Passion because without it how can you make people feel where you’re coming from
Question: What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
Malcolm Taylor: Go on a budget and really trim the fat on things I don’t really need.
Malcolm Taylor - Can I Live (Music Video)
Question: What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?
Malcolm Taylor: Creating the music and performing the music gets me excited the most. At the moment nothing discourages me, I’m in love with process.
Question: Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?
Malcolm Taylor: I see my music springing the next generation to do great things.
Question: What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?
Malcolm Taylor: Stay true to yourself because it’s only one of you!
Question: Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your music?
Malcolm Taylor: The New Ep is out now, “Protect your Energy” enjoy it until the next release!
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Exclusive | Alabama Rapper Sullivan Talks His New Album "A Pimp Named Sullivan"
Alabama rapper, Sullivan, talks the release of his new album, A Pimp Named Sullivan. We talked with Sullivan in an exclusive interview! Check it out here!
By: Omar Cook
This week's "Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is a dope Southern lyricist, Sullivan! This up and coming rapper hails from Huntsville, Alabama and attended Tuskegee University. Sullivan has a laid back flow that is shown throughout his music and is definitely an artist to watch out for!
We talked with Sullivan in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
QUESTION: How long have you been making music and how did you get started?
Sullivan: I have been making music passionately for about 4 years. I was always a huge music fan but I started when I went to Tuskegee University and met Scuzzo. If it wasn’t for him telling me I had talent I would have never worked up the courage to release my first song.
QUESTION: Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who are your favorite musicians?
Sullivan: Personally, my biggest influences come from me growing up in the church, old school RnB, and smooth rap. Bootsy Collins, The Isley Brothers, Snoop, Curren$y, Wiz Khalifa, and many more.
QUESTION: What artists would you like to collaborate with and why?
Sullivan: There's plenty of artist that are talented but I would really love to collab with Curren$y and create a classic for the smokers. And I’d also like to collab with The Weeknd. I know our voices on the same track would be crazy.
QUESTION: What do you feel is your best song/project ever released and why?
Sullivan: This question isn't up to me lol. Its up to the listeners! Personally I really enjoy my new album called “A Pimp Named Sullivan”. This album is a product of great timing. My mind was right, my creativity was heightened, and I was really in tune with everything in the universe.
QUESTION: What projects can we look forward to in the near future?
Sullivan: “Evil Scientist” is my upcoming project and it's something for the true smoker and true players. Be careful when you listen cuz it's gone make you like the coolest mf on the world. The album releases on Nov 30th, 2018
QUESTION: How do you generate new ideas for your music?
Sullivan: Before I write or record I always meditate. And smoke a little gas. But if we’re being real, artistic preparation takes place 24/7. I study science, history, philosophy in my free time. I also surround myself with as much positivity and creativity as possible. I explore myself more than I do anything else. All of these things determine what mindset I'm in when I make my art.
QUESTION: What motivates you and how do you define success?
Sullivan: I motivate me and as long as I am still working towards something I will always be successful. Success is a direction, not a destination.
QUESTION: How do you describe your music to people?
Sullivan:: It’s just dope man. I don’t do much describing, I just let the tunes speak for themselves. Anybody who enjoys good music regardless of their preferred genre, can find something to appreciate about my music. Just know that only the smoothest and most playerest mfs listen to my music
QUESTION: Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?
Sullivan: I believe that the formula to manifest anything good is the same. You just gotta believe in yourself. That's easier said than done but once it's achieved you realize that boundaries only exist in your own mind.
QUESTION: Who is your greatest inspiration?
Sullivan: This rapper from Huntsville, Alabama named Sullivan
QUESTION: In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?
Sullivan: In my particular sub genre of hip hop Snoop, Curren$y, and Wiz Khalifa are the most successful. Snoop made it cool to be a smoker in the 90s and then Wiz and Curren$y pushed that even further. Now it's my time to take the torch.
QUESTION: Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?
Sullivan: I would say my music is dominated by the joy of being high on some top shelf gas
QUESTION: What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
Sullivan: I had to sacrifice the negativity. Straight like that. It was very hard because that shit can be addicting. Basically, I had to sacrifice my old life to get this new one.
QUESTION: What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?
Sullivan: I love recording and writing but having to deal with people to get it mixed, promoted, etc can be discouraging but when it’s all said and done it is worth it.
QUESTION: Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?
Sullivan: In 10 years I am the most popular musician in the world. Watch
QUESTION: What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?
Sullivan: Stop asking for advice and trust yourself! Nobody knows more about your path than you do!
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Exclusive | William Prize Talks Overcoming Depression and His Upcoming Project "Mind Games"
North Carolina rapper, William Prize, talks overcoming depression with his music and creating his upcoming project, "Mind Games" We talked with William Prize in an exclusive interview! Check it out here!
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 !!!
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Exclusive | Jeh $inatra Discusses His Latest Album 'B.LA.C.K.'
New York rapper, Jeh $inatra, is the head of independent record label, Broken Hearts Music Group! We talked with Jeh $inatra in an exclusive interview about his latest album, B.LA.C.K., and more!
By: Omar Cook
This week's "Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is Jeh $inatra, an up and coming lyricist from the East Coast! $inatra hails from Syracuse, New York and graduated college in 2010 with a degree in Business Administration. At 32 years old, this artist is married with a 10 year old daughter and owns an independent record label by the name Broken Hearts Music Group. His label curently features 4 rappers including himself and their in-house producer. $inatra is passionate about all the arts, and as a creative he likes to show off his creativity in many different forms. His most recent album B.LA.C.K. can be found on all major streaming platforms (apple music, spotify, tidal) with a new album that is planned to be dropped in March.
We talked with Jeh $inatra in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
Question: How long have you been making music and how did you get started?
Jeh $inatra: 10 years. I got started through my brother who had been rapping since he was 15 himself back in New York. One day he wanted me to rap on a track with him, took me to the studio, I laid down my verse and the rest is history from that point. Haven’t stopped writing/rapping since.
Question: Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who are your favorite musicians?
Jeh $inatra: My biggest influence has been my best friend Tavares. A lot of times when people didn’t quite get the vision or the direction we were going with the music, he never lost sight of it all. He stayed true to what we were doing and what we stood for out of everyone else. Also my wife Candace as well. Huge influence and motivator. Favorite musicians would have to be Frank Sinatra, Bob Marley, Miles Davis, Jay-Z, Nas, Rakim, 2Pac, Notorious B.I.G., Kendrick Lamar, J.Cole...the list goes on and on for me.
Question: What artists would you like to collaborate with and why?
Jeh $inatra: Nas, Pharrell Williams, Adele, a dope R&B singer by the name of Ari Lennox (she has a really dope vibe and sound), H.E.R., Frank Ocean. Why I would like to collaborate with these artists is mostly to pick their brain and the inner workings of their minds. Being around creative minds like these you almost in sense can’t help but want to soak up as much knowledge as possible while given the opportunity. Nas has always been one of my favorite emcees of all time, Pharrell Williams has always been one of my musical idols, and as far as rest of the artists I just love their music.
Question: What do you feel is your best song/project ever released and why?
Jeh $inatra: So far my pick for best song would have to be off of my current album “B.LA.C.K” entitled “ACT III. GLORY”. To me that’s my best song because I was able to channel a more emotional, vulnerable side of myself I never really tap into musically, not to mention recording that record was the only time I spoke on my daughter as much as I did. For an entire song it was me rapping to her my love for her and why I do the things I do for her.
Question: What projects can we look forward to in the near future?
Jeh $inatra: Projects to look forward to in the near future from myself, I’am currently releasing a few singles with other artists leading up to my next major project which is slated to release next year March. I currently have a record set to release 11.14.18 with another artist from the Florida area we’ve been promoting. This is part of the series of singles I’ll be releasing over the next few months. My label also has in the works a compilation album featuring my artists TZO, Liron Dayo, $wayze, Eric King with production by our in-house producer D.A.GonBang.
Question: How do you generate new ideas for your music?
Jeh $inatra: From life experiences mostly. I always find ways to tie in my life into my music as much as possible. I find it to be more organic and truthful, versus just writing from an angle I haven’t really explored. I try to keep as much truth in my music as I can.
Question: What motivates you and how do you define success?
Jeh $inatra: What motivates me would be my Family first and foremost. My daughter, my wife, my mother/father and so forth. My true friends, the artists on my label, other indie artists and just creatives in general, and the sheer love and passion I have for music as a whole. I define success by personal growth and personal goals achieved all the while being able to help others achieve their goals. Success isn’t limited to personal accomplishments, the most successful people in life are those who extend a helping hand to others.
Question: How do you describe your music to people?
Jeh $inatra: “Grown-man rap” lol. Mature rap. In the truest form hip-hop. Not necessarily “backpack rap” or “conscious rap”, but just real rap with real lyrics, real stories, and real life relatable content. Nothing fabricated.
Question: Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?
Jeh $inatra: Yes and No. We’ve all witnessed up and coming artist come from nothing with no formula and blow up to be huge stars, however there are artists like myself who stick to the traditional path and follow that “formula” of hard work, grinding for a long time, not necessarily looking to make the next viral hit. Nothing wrong with that at all, but not every artist is inclined to doing that. Me personal I believe in quality over quantity when it comes to my music and the music our label releases. So to answer I believe there is a formula, I just don’t think it works for every artist.
Question: Who is your greatest inspiration?
Jeh $inatra: My daughter. I’m always striving to create a better life for her.
Jeh $inatra featuring TZO - “ACT X/ FOE”
Question: In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?
Jeh $inatra: Jay-Z, Diddy, Dr. Dre, and there’s a few others. Why because they are the epitome of coming from nothing, working extremely hard, staying dedicated to their craft/vision, and accomplishing honors in the hip-hop industry that rappers only dream about accomplishing.
Question: Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?
Jeh $inatra: Passion. I have an undying passion to succeed and help the ones around me succeed.
Question: What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
Jeh $inatra: Time. Time has been the biggest sacrifice I’ve had to make while chasing this dream. Time spent with family members and loved ones alike. That’s something you never get used to, you can only make the adjustments needed to make it work but you never fully get used to losing out on that time. Sleep lol. Lots of that.
Question: What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?
Jeh $inatra: What excites me the most is working with other creative minds, being able to make something from nothing and give birth to an idea in the physical form. I love writing music a lot. When people say it’s therapeutic it truly is. What discourages me about the music making process is the greed associated with working with those same artists. A lot of artists won’t have your best interest at heart even though you’re working closely with these individuals. There’s not too much I don’t like about the process or being involved with creating period.
Question: Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?
Jeh $inatra: Where do I see myself in 10 years, successfully running this label with more acts/talent, joint ventures with sports agencies, owning multiple lucrative businesses outside the world of hip-hop, in addition to partnering up with some non-profit organizations and really helping the community. I see myself helping to give back to those who need assistance in any way, shape, or form. To be the most well rounded CEO, that’s my end goal.
Question: What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?
Jeh $inatra: Stay true to your art, your craft, stay true to yourself, and your team and the ones around you. The ones who really support your dreams. Never switch up on them. Don’t be afraid to work with other artists. This business is all about relationships and building those, the more you’re receptive to with working with others the more opportunities come your way. Always Be Open Minded to Creating.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Exclusive | TyShawn Dion is One of the Best Lyricists in Massachusetts
TyShawn Dion is one of the hottest lyricists coming out of Massachusetts! We spoke with this dope rapper in an exclusive interview, check it out!
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.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Exclusive | Lauryn Harris Talks the Release of Her Debut EP 'Inside My Head'
Lauryn Harris is a rising singer out of Houston, Texas! We talked with the up and coming singer in an exclusive interview as she dropped her first EP, Inside My Head!
By: Omar Cook
Lauryn Harris is an up and coming singer from from Houston, Texas! At 21, she is currently attending Texas State University and getting her degree in mass communication with a minor in music. Fashion and beauty is another avenue she want to pursue in her career along with music! She just dropped her first project called Inside My Head, but don’t sleep on this artist as this is someone you will want to keep an eye out for in the future!
Check out her new Ep Inside My Head!
We talked with Lauryn Harris in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
QUESTION: How long have you been making music and how did you get started?
Lauryn Harris: Well I’ve always wanted to sing since the age of four and that dream has never left me. As for making my own music I started about exactly this time last year, I never really was much of a writer but I ended up loving it.
QUESTION: What was your inspiration for the title of this project?
Lauryn Harris: My thoughts are always so scattered and I felt that the songs on this project perfectly reflected that. I had no clear vision on where I wanted to go on this EP I just sang and wrote about what was on my mind at that time.
QUESTION: What do you want people to gather from listening to your music?
Lauryn Harris: I want people to get to know me and who I am as an artist. With each song I hope listeners feel the emotions I put into a song and enjoy the overall experience.
QUESTION: What do you feel is a song that people MUST listen to on this album?
Lauryn Harris: Butterflies. This song is about that feeling you get when a new person comes in your life and you just can’t contain yourself. It’s just an overall happy song and makes you wanna dance
QUESTION: Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey and who are your favorite musicians?
Lauryn Harris: I’d say Jill Scott, Alicia Keys, Erykah Badu, and Sade. All of these women have voices that captivate you and they all tell stories in their music.
QUESTION: What do you feel is your best song ever released and why?
Lauryn Harris: I’d say “Chaos” because that was the first full length song I wrote and recorded when I got started making music. I was going through a lot at the time, my grandfather had past away at the time, I was going through depression, so I grabbed a pen and wrote away.
QUESTION: How do you generate new ideas for your music?
Lauryn Harris: I just have to be inspired, and it happens at the most random times, like when I wrote “5 AM”, I was supposed to be studying for an exam.
QUESTION: What motivates you and how do you define success?
Lauryn Harris: I am blessed with an amazing family that has always supported my dreams. My parents have been with me through this journey between paying for vocal lessons when I was younger, never missing my recitals, and constantly lifting me up when I feel down.
QUESTION: How do you describe your music to people?
Lauryn Harris: I’d say an alternative r&b mixed with neo-soul.
QUESTION: Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?
Lauryn Harris: Honestly, this might sound cliché but good ole hard work.
QUESTION: Who is your greatest inspiration?
Lauryn Harris: My mom, she is amazing, when she wants something she goes for it and gets it done. She inspires me do that with my music.
QUESTION: Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?
Lauryn Harris: I think my music is a mix of happiness and sadness, mixed with some attitude. I feel like I have to have a good balance.
QUESTION: What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
Lauryn Harris: I don’t really think I’ve had to sacrifice anything yet, I’m a college student, I work, and I do music. Yes, it gets difficult but life is all about balance.
QUESTION: What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?
Lauryn Harris: I think writing and recording go hand in on making my music. Some days I come up with great material writing and some days my mind is completely blank. I am such a perfectionist when it comes to my singing so when I’m recording I redo something I don’t like about a million times.
QUESTION: Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?
Lauryn Harris: In 10 years I’ll be 31, I hope to be established in the industry by then and hopefully have a couple grammys. I’ll still be making music and hopefully make my mark in this world.
QUESTION: What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?
Lauryn Harris: I’m still trying to break into the industry and I’m still learning but if I could give advice it would be when you get discouraged trying to create sit back, take a break, and come back to it. Whatever you were struggling to find will come back to you.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Exclusive | R&B Sensation Trey Forever is Making Sure His Music Will Be Remembered Forever
This week's “Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is Midwest R&B artist Trey Forever! We talked with Trey Forever in an exclusive interview! Check it out here!
By: Omar Cook
This week's "Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is rising R&B artist Trey Forever! Trey Forever is an up and coming singer from the Midwest; St Louis to be exact! Trey is grinder and is always working on his music and when he's not putting his time into releasing dope music, he's just spending time hanging with his people. "Just like everyone else I just like to really be around good people, even if I don’t say much sometimes." For you R&B fans, this is a name you need to get acquainted with as this is an artist with some real talent and vocals!
Trey Forever - “Good Intentions” (Music Video)
We talked with Trey Forever in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
QUESTION: How long have you been making music and how did you get started?
Trey Forever: I started creating music in 2016. I started, because again, I don’t really say much, and I am pretty much to myself, so music is a way for me to say things that’s on my mind and heart.
QUESTION: Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey? Who are your favorite musicians?
Trey Forever: The Most High has really been helping me on my musical journey. You can get lost a lot of times trying to get to where you wanna be, and God has a way of sitting you down when you move to fast. Besides God, my producer BC, and bro Rell really been behind me musically.
QUESTION: Who are your favorite musicians and who would you like to collaborate with?
Trey Forever: Artists like Usher, Trey Songz, Sammie, and Eric Bellinger are artists I really rock with.
QUESTION: What do you feel is your best song ever released and why?
Trey Forever: Honestly I haven’t took the time to really just enjoy my own music, because I am always working, and on to the next. I am very hard on myself as an artist, it’s crazy. Good question, just not sure I have one yet.
QUESTION: How do you generate new ideas for your music?
Trey Forever: Life alone helps me generate ideas. Watching movies, and listening to other people's stories, also helps me.
QUESTION: What motivates you and how do you define success?
Trey Forever: Music alone motivates me to be great, the people counting on me motivates me, and being able to take care of my family really motivates me. Being able to take care of my family, being happy, and being a help to others in need is success to me.
QUESTION: How do you describe your music to people?
Trey Forever: I feel my music is escape music. It allows people to think, meditate, and visit different places mentally to find a way to figure things out.
QUESTION: Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?
Trey Forever: I hear a lot of artists, and people who been in the game for years talk about formulas, and blueprints, but I have a long way to go, so I'm not sure if I can speak on a formula just yet. I do feel like being strong mentally, physically, spiritually, along with hard work, dedication, and keeping God 1st is a good way to start.
QUESTION: Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc., and why?
Trey Forever: All those feelings are in music, because that’s what we feel. I feel those feelings are very important, so I make sure to put those emotions in my music.
QUESTION: What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
Trey Forever: Everything. A home, stability, some family turn on you. I don’t do any complaining though. Even without a home, I make a way to create, and keep pushing.
QUESTION: What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?
Trey Forever: The creating process of music always excites me. It’s something about working on music to get it right, and perfect that is soothing for me. What discourages me, is when I can’t record whenever I want to.
QUESTION: Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?
Trey Forever: I see myself as a artist that has made a way for himself, family, and other artists. Trey Forever stands for my music and how my music will be remembered for ever. I wanna be unforgettable.
QUESTION: What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?
Trey Forever: I would say believe in yourself, consistency, make music from the heart, and never be afraid to take risk.
QUESTION: Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your music?
Trey Forever: I make what I want when I want, and that’s it.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Exclusive | Rapper Joshua Sheeran Is Charlotte's Best Kept Secret
Joshua Sheeran is an up and coming artist out of North Carolina! We talked with this under the radar lyricist in an exclusive interview!
This week's "Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is east coast artist Joshua Sheeran! This under the radar artist out of Charlotte, North Carolina recently graduated from North Carolina Central University in December 2017! Since his graduation, 22 year old Sheeran has been on the grind pushing his music out. Joshua is an artist of many arts and wants his career to eventually expand beyond just music. His aim is to spread vibes and positive messages throughout his music always and he also hopes to breakthrough and show people love is cool still! Although he is currently in the process of writing and creating his first complete project, Joshua has a lot of dope tracks already out! We can expect a early 2019 release of his first project but many creative visuals and singles to get us by in the meantime! Do no sleep on this artist!
We talked with Joshua Sheeran in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
Question: How long have you been making music and how did you get started?
Joshua Sheeran: 2 years now! I actually grew up around music. Family + Friends. I didn’t take my craft as an artist seriously until 2017. I saw it was much bigger than just me once people started hitting me up saying how much my music helped them.
Question: Musically, what are your biggest influences and who are your favorite musicians?
Joshua Sheeran: Women, conflict/resolution, love and myself are my biggest influencers. My favorite artist right now are Sonder, Bryson Tiller, Drake, Noname, and Smino. All things R&B also!
Question: What musician would you most like to collaborate with and why?
Joshua Sheeran: At this very second it has to be Bryson Tiller. Homie has the vibes and sound. I think our sound would mesh very well.
Joshua Sheeran - “I Love It, She Love It” (Music Video)
Question: What do you feel is your best song you've ever released and why?
Joshua Sheeran: Statistically and one of my favs, ‘I love it, She love it” definitely a vibe and has over 20,000 streams alone. I have some tracks like ‘Niyah’s Interlude’ and ‘Loving me ain't too perfect’ that really resonate with my soul. Just the content and emotional feel.
Question: What motivates you and how do you define success?
Joshua Sheeran: I got motivated from traveling. I went to DC and was like “damn, I’ve been missing out on the world.. I want to get out and do this more.” And music has always been a passion/past time. So why not combine the both and do what I love. Success, to me is changing lives of the people around you and yourself. Digging deeper than financial and helping people on a spiritual and mental level.
Question: How do you generate new ideas?
Joshua Sheeran: Funny! When I’m out the loop…. I go to Twitter for content. I sometimes rap vicariously through the lives of others.
Question: How do you describe your music to people?
Joshua Sheeran: Different -- Calm, thought/emotion provoking. The type of music you take home to mom.
Question: Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?
Joshua Sheeran: I don’t. You never know these days what will and won’t blow honestly. There are right steps to take but formula, no. I do believe we are in the visual era.
Question: Who is your greatest inspiration?
Joshua Sheeran: Definitely has to be myself honestly. I’ve been through so much and conquered so many battles. I feel I owe it to myself to continue chasing music and doing what I love.
Question: In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?
Joshua Sheeran: Drake, he literally has been carrying the torch for awhile now! Definitely has helped so many artist form their careers and breakthrough to the mainstream world. Shoes, NBA, OVO Brand, OVO label, and Apple Music deal to name a few. The guy is really great.
Joshua Sheeran - “fruits // sweet dream” (Music Video)
Question: Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?
Joshua Sheeran: Passion -- to love, to feel happy, to overcome sadness/hurt and to be better. You can blend so many styles into passion.
Question: What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
Joshua Sheeran: Time, money, friendships and occasionally love.
Question: What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?
Joshua Sheeran: The ability to connect with people and getting the chance to see the world one day! It gets kinda disappointing some of the wild things that blow up but no knock to them. They connected with the people. Even in a unconventional manner.
Joshua Sheeran - “whatssssluvvvv” (Music Video)
Question: Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?
Joshua Sheeran: Living comfortable and happy! At peace with my wife and helping others breakthrough!
Question: What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?
Joshua Sheeran: Remain, you. Most importantly stay genuine at heart and lead people right.
Question: Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your music?
Joshua Sheeran: It’s AVAILABLE EVERYWHERE. YOU SHOULD STREAM AND SHARE WITH YOUR BOO, FAMILY OR WHOEVER! A SONG FOR EVERY VIBE! NO EXCUSE.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Exclusive | JB Magix is Set to Release His Debut Mixtape 'Pleasure Island'
JB Magix is set to release his debut Mixtape Pleasure Island. We spoke with this up and coming artist and producer from Cali in an exclusive interview!
JB Magix, which is short for Jamaal Bethea, is an up and coming artist and executive producer based in Fresno, originally from Long Beach, California. JB signed his first record deal at the age of 24 with the The Private Plane, a subsidiary Creative Talent Agency to G.O.O.D Music ran by Kanye West's right hand man, 6 time Grammy Award Winner Malik Yusef!
In 2011 JB received his first real music industry recognition from the release of a remix called "She Craves Me" which hit Top 10 on the charts for 30days and held a top 40 position for 3 consecutive months via MTV's Partnered Website Ourstage.com when he was formerly known as the artist The Kid Bilal. The remix heavily assisted the original song to reaching 30 million views on Youtube. With the help of producer Malik Yusef, JB Magix was propelled into an elite network of talented creatives in the music industry.
JB Magix is set to release his first Mixtape titled "Pleasure Island'' on August 18 with merch accompanied. He also has a near future release which is set for December 12, which is his first commerical EP release titled "Romantic Anarchy." Reminiscent to J. Cole's KOD both records challenge the status quo of the music industry's perpetuation of drugs and violence.The EP is slated to have features from Malik Yusef, Mann, Kevin McCall Jr., Fashawn, Kanye West & Panic At The Disco.
Check out his single Miracles with Kevin McCall below!
https://godrythm.bandcamp.com/releases
We talked with JB Magix in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
QUESTION: How long have you been making music and how did you get started?
JB Magix: I’ve been making music since the age of 9. Back in the day a person could put tissues in cassette tapes and do what was known as “dub” over the tape your own music. I started recording my own mixtapes from radio, and attempted to put my poetry over music, which didn’t initially come out as good as I would have liked lol But it gave me the motivation to know that I was getting somewhere with my art.
QUESTION: Musically, who has been your biggest influence in helping you along your journey?
JB Magix: I’d have to say Malik Yusef Jones.. I was in a very dark place before he discovered me on twitter and offered me a record deal... It was right on the cusp of me developing issues with my hearing which also started discouraging me.. To have someone that has been successful in working with artists like Drake, Kanye West, Ty Dolla $ and more as a frequent collaborator gave me the inspiration to keep pursuing a career in music.
QUESTION: How does having Malik Yusef as a mentor and working with him help with your creativity?
JB Magix: I’ve had the opportunity to work on some Kanye West albums under his direction, network with elite music industry professionals and perform at some of his official Grammy after Parties. That for me was confirmation that I had made it out of my Mom’s house lol But also that I have the potential to add value to something larger than myself.. and from there I never second guessed if there was a limit in the sky.
QUESTION: Why did you choose the name Pleasure Island for your first EP release?
JB Magix: I got the idea from Pinocchio.. A gang of kids, some good and some misguided were tricked into going to Pleasure Island.. A place where good kids are transformed into delinquents, ultimately to come back out into the world and wreak havoc. The concept resonated with me so much that I considered how our very own society is like this island matrix that sucks people into bad situations with influences based on the false senses of pleasure. The narrative I am creating with the mixtape is about a character named Lil Nochio who is out and about in society trying to stay righteous in a world full of choices.. He gets influenced negatively but what he learns eventually assists in his personal reform.. If society will give him a chance that is..
QUESTION: What are you looking to accomplish with the release of your first mixtape and what can we expect as far as features?
JB Magix: I Plan to open people’s minds to something different. It will be controversial.. but it will be different. Everything isn’t always what it seems.. there aren’t many artist in the mainstream telling the truth.. to be completely transparent most of them tell half-truths and say to people things like “well I didn’t say that all women are hoes” without regard to the consequences of their lyrics.. a lot of these young girls now use “Hoe” and “Bitch” as terms of endearment.. largely due to the influence on culture rap music and media has.. Especially when your presence is ubiquitous at some point these artists and executives that have a large realm of influence have to innerstand that the parents can’t close their children’s ears all of the time.. they will find the music or the video.. they will imitate.. they will be brainwashed by the allure and propaganda used to control minds and influence culture (in more negative ways than positive). It’s important to know that there are positive influences out there but how can Lyor Cohen.. an executive at Def Jam records have no consequences when he says he doesn’t respect what he calls “Junkies” drinking “liquid heroin” but condones and promotes the sale and promotion of music that perpetuates that behavior in our culture,( of drinking lean) because he has mouths to feed? It’s hypocritical and dangerous to say the least. When Tupac said “I will spark the brain that will change the world”.. he was talking about me.. and I will pass on that spark. As far as features I definitely will have my bros Kevin McCall & Fashawn on the record.
QUESTION: What motivates you and how do you define success?
JB Magix: Success is truly defined by the individual. I doesn’t have to do with money for sure, but rather the impact a person can make on the people in their community. Knowing that I am affecting people in a positive way is what inspires me to keep doing what I do. I met a young girl I the hood at McDonalds a few years back.. she had recordings of her music on her phone. I was blown away at her resilience to get things done, that I introduced her to Ty Dolla Signs, put her on a few shows with Berner, and I see her booking her own shows today and still making music.. who knows what her life would have been like without that mentorship.
QUESTION: How do you describe your music to people?
JB Magix: I’m coining a new genre called “God Rhythm” it is music on a frequency that’s made to heal and inspire. More melodic, real instrumentation that’s binaural with 432hz & 528 Hz.
QUESTION: Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?
JB Magix: Yes, it requires a intricately designed plan or blue print and consistent execution of actions to gain the desired result. The thing that discourages people is when things don’t go the way they planned.. what they fail to see is that the road to success has many lanes and when one door closes a whole different one opens.. but only you have the key to see whats on the other side.. but don’t forget.. some doors you don’t want to go into.
QUESTION: Who is your greatest inspiration?
JB Magix: My mother and father.. I perceived that I am half of them both literally split down the middle.. my mother is spiritual, in-tune with the universe and compassionate. My father is aggressive, commands respect and takes initiative to get the results he desires... I take after both of them evenly
QUESTION: In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?
JB Magix: Hard to pen point one.. but if I had to decide I would have to say Beyonce because of how much she influences the culture.. in a positive way with the least amount of compromise involved. You doesn’t use drama in head lines to grad her audiences attention.. and from time to time she stands for something. Giving money to HBCUs is on point. She donated to my school lol Wilberforce University.
QUESTION: Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?
JB Magix: It would have to be a combination of Joy and Sadness because those are some of the realist and most relatable emotions.. its hard for me to believe that everyone gets angry because I cant even remember the last time I was.. plus I have certain beliefs and definitely being “Mad” to me is a mental illnesss.
QUESTION: What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
JB Magix: Man… where do I begin lol I had to get straight A’s one semester to have a meeting with the Vice President of Hidden Beach Recordings, ultimately to get an internship marketing for Jill Scott. After that I literally stood outside of Wale’s record label in DC, starting checking in models for a modeling call he was having without anyone asking me to, so they brought me into the label. Couple years back I went behind the staples center at the BET Awards in LA and started helping the staff with no credentials, no sign up, nothing and that landing me doing working for Beyonce, Future, Kendrick Lamar, Bryson Tiller, Janelle Monae, and more for the night lol
QUESTION: What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?
JB Magix: What excites me is that with music I have a voice and platform that gives me the ability to affect people’s lives in a positive way and simultaneously build a legacy for my family.. nothing discourages me but what I don’t like seeing is the exploitation of our people in music, media, the demonization of “Black People” in the media and music serves as a cornerstone for fabricated census statistics on crime, misrepresentation of our excellence constantly and under handed congratulations at our achievements with superficial awards.. we don’t get the respect we deserve for creating advanced civilizations and art forms.. that assisted in building the ones American Society enjoys today.. They like “Black Music” but there is a lack of respect for “Black People”
QUESTION: Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?
JB Magix: I see an Empire.. of new artists, young artists, a community of creatives that are respected and revered for their achievements in mainstream cultural society… all of the arts included.
QUESTION: What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?
JB Magix: Have a plan, don’t be afraid to invest in yourself, no risk no reward, and understand what “ROI” return on investment means. Build a community, there is no I in TEAM, trust the process, get mentorship, find people that can help your weaknesses, capitalize on your strengths don’t compromise your values and morals for a check or opportunity. Innerstand that you are what you say your are.. you’re already a superstar all you have to do make sure people know.
QUESTION: Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your music?
JB Magix: Just listen to it, follow me, ask yourself questions then ask me some.. and I will kindly get back to you at my earliest convenience lol
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Exclusive | Lyricist DFlowetry is Leaving "No Regrets" With His Rap Career
Las Vegas lyricist is leaving “No Regrets” with pursing his rap career! We talked with this dope rapper in an exclusive interview!
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.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Exclusive | Sonta Me'Shay is Chicago's Next Great R&B Singer
Sonta Me’Shay has had major success with her songs You Ain't Shit, Final Goodbye, Friends, And Word To My Ex, all gathering millions of views on youtube! We talked with this Chicago singer in an exclusive interview!
This week's "Who's Hot?" Artist of the week is rising R&B artist, Sonta Me'Shay! Sonta has a voice that this generation needs to hear! The Chicago singer is signed to Machine Group Entertainment which features G Herbo, Tink and more! Sonta has had major success with her songs You Ain't Shit, Final Goodbye, Friends, And Word To My Ex, all gathering millions of views on youtube!
Sonta - Crushing (Official Music Video)
We talked with Sonta in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
Question: How long have you been making music and how did you break into the music industry?
Sonta: I have been making music since I was old enough to understand that I could sing forreal, but I have been releasing music for 3 years. What broke me into the industry was putting music out while also uploading videos singing, rapping and saying poems that I had written.
Question: Musically, what are your biggest influences and who are your favorite musicians?
Sonta: My biggest influences are Michael Jackson, Mary J. Blige, Lauryn Hill & Beyonce. My favorite musicians is this girl named Sonta lol, no but I like mostly Chicago artists, some mainstream and mostly old school RnB. Mary J, Destiny's Child, Cherish, 112, Jagged Edge etc.
Question: You're signed to Chicago’s Machine Group Entertainment which features some other major artists in G-Herbo, Tink, and Queen Key! What musicians would you most like to collaborate with for the future and why?
Sonta: Yes, I am. I would like to collaborate with all of the Upcoming Chicago Artists because it's good for the city. I would also like to collab with mainstream artists like SZA, Jhene Aiko, Tank etc.
Question: What do you feel is your best song you've ever released and why?
Sonta: I love all of my music equally, but You Aint Shit is my baby.
Question: What motivates you and how do you define success?
Sonta: What motivates me is God, my Mom, my Family, My Team, those who believe in me & those who don't. I define success as true peace, inside and out.
Question: What projects can people look forward to seeing from you in the future?
Sonta: In the near future people can look forward to me dropping PART 2 to the video series for my project InMyFeelings. In the Future I will be dropping a surprise Trailer introducing my next project.
Question: How do you generate new ideas
Sonta - “Crazy Over U” (Music Video)
Sonta: They usually just come to me because I use everything as inspiration.
Question: How do you describe your music to people?
Sonta: I describe my music as RnD; Rhythm&Drill. Its like a sweet sound but I'm speaking real sh*t.
Question: What do you believe is the formula to being a successful artist in today’s hip hop culture?
Sonta: I mean just be yourself and if people feel you they feel you.
Question: Who has been your greatest inspiration?
Sonta: My Mother, and Sister! Also the people who saw greatness in me in my younger years.
Question: In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?
Sonta: Beyonce because now that I'm pursuing the same career, I know how hard she works. Have to give credit where it’s due.
Question: Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?
Sonta: I would say Passion and just emotion period because I go off of how im feeling at the moment.
Question: What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
Sonta: The sacrifices I have had to make are mainly with time with loved ones and working long hours in the studio.
Question: What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?
Sonta: Just coming up with new sounds and networking. Nothing discourages me.
Question: Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?
Sonta: I just take it day by day like SZA said.
Question: What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?
Sonta: The advice I would give is to stay focused and stay true to yourself.
Question: Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your music?
Sonta: I don't consider myself a Singer or Rapper. I am a Writer. So what you hear are my Thoughts.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Exclusive | Lijah Turner Talks Leaving Behind Football to Focus on Music
West coast rapper, Lijah Turner, talks leaving behind football to focus on his music career! We talked with Lijah in an exclusive interview!
By: Omar Cook
We talked with West Coast rapper, Lijah Turner, in an exclusive interview! Originally from East Oakland, California, his parents relocated him and his siblings to North Las Vegas, Nevada where he grew up. Turner initially had sports dreams and had aspirations of playing in the NFL or running track in the olympics. An ACL injury in 2016 caused him to turn to music which has been his focus ever since. Turner now lives in Los Angeles and is looking to make a name for himself in a region that is rich in hip hop culture! Lijah Turner brings a west coast sound with dope lyrics that is sure to turn some heads in the near future!
We talked with Lijah Turner in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
QUESTION: How long have you been making music and how did you get started?
Lijah Turner: I’ve been making music since september of 2016 right after I torn my acl at Cal Lutheran University.
QUESTION: Musically, what are your biggest influences and who are your favorite musicians?
Lijah Turner:: My favorite musicians are Dj Quik, Dom Kennedy, Curren$y, Tupac, and k-Dot.
QUESTION: What musician would you most like to collaborate with and why?
Lijah Turner: Nipsey Hussle because honestly he has shown how to build yourself behind a brand without a record deal and now look at Nip, he is really a self-made legend in South Central.
QUESTION: What do you feel is your best song you've ever released and why?
Lijah Turner: The best song I’ve ever released is SMOOTH N***A because it shows my creativity and my alter ego(Tino Daddy) the cold pimp himself haha!
QUESTION: What motivates you and how do you define success?
Lijah Turner: My nephews motivates me and success is defined as meeting and surpassing your own expectations.
QUESTION: How do you generate new ideas?
Lijah Turner: I’m a cali kid so I’ll be honest I’ll roll up and it get my mind racing!!
QUESTION: How do you describe your music to people?
Lijah Turner: Real feel hip hop honestly that trap music, autotune mumble rap bullshit don’t come out my mouth.
QUESTION: Do you believe there is a formula to being a successful artist?
Lijah Turner: Staying true the game, your close loved ones, and most of all yourself.
QUESTION: Who is your greatest inspiration?
Lijah Turner: Honestly my grandmother that passed away in 09, our birthdays were only two days apart and when I was younger her and myself was that close, but as I got older our bond got stronger then ever. And the crazy part is I was the last person to talk to her on the phone and she was really young when she passed so she inspired me to live my life to the fullest because you don’t know when your time's coming
QUESTION: In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre today and why?
Lijah Turner: K-Dot, through the years he shown why is the next GOAT of our time he literally takes you through every emotion in his music and he is brilliant
QUESTION: Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?
Lijah Turner: Honestly every emotion, (next pac in the making) haha lol jk
QUESTION: What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
Lijah Turner: Man a lot of sacrifices missing out on family events because of shows, spending my last on studio time, ignoring a lot of people to finish my last project I did (Baby To The Game) and man I know more will come it's just how you handle the situation and if you close ones stay down through the hard times
QUESTION: What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?
Lijah Turner: Everything excites honestly hell I’d sleep at the stu and to be 100 nothing discourages me music wise I really don’t care if you like my shit as long as I do I could give two damns nothing phases me
QUESTION: Where do you see yourself and your music in 10 years?
Lijah Turner: Shit, hopefully chillin with my loved ones living the best life I can!
QUESTION: What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?
Lijah Turner: I mean the only advice I can give right now I sticking to it and being consistent cause if you not getting better you're getting worse
QUESTION: Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your music?
Lijah Turner: Man I just want everyone to take a listen to it thats all!
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN:
SHARE TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Exclusive | WAASIKeso is Hip-Hop's Next Great Rap Duo
WAASIKeso is a dynamic hip hop group with lyrical talent that gives you hope for the future of rap! We talked with this Florida rap duo in an exclusive interview! Check it out here!
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.