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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Question: How do you generate new ideas?

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

Question: How do you describe your music to people?

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

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

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

Question: Who is your greatest inspiration?

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

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

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

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

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

Lona - “Charge it 2 the Game” Music Video

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Exclusive | Lijah Turner Talks Leaving Behind Football to Focus on Music

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!

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

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

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

WAASIKeso - “NAME” (Music Video)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Question: How do you generate new ideas?

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

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

Question: How do you describe your music to people?

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

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

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

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

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

Question: Who is your greatest inspiration?

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

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

WAASIKeso - “Soul Food”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WAASIKeso - “Lights”

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

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

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

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

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

Jiggy Keso: Owning and successfully operating a record label.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Exclusive | Elijah McClinton Turned a Passion Into Deathtoheartbreaks Clothing Line

By: Omar Cook

Our "Who's Hot?" Entrepreneur of the Week is Elijah McClinton, co-founder of Deathtoheartbreaks clothing line! McClinton is a 19 year old fashion designer from Anaheim, California and raised in Lawrenceville, Georgia. He was a not so good high school student, but fought to turn it around and is now in school for journalism. Writing and drawing have always been his passion since he was young and while in high school, McClinton was a part of the school’s film program that won a couple of awards throughout the state. This opportunity opened his eyes to videography and the possibilities it could provide for him!

Check out the brand here www.deathtoheartbreaks.com

Deathtoheartbreaks For LA Fashion Week 2022

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

Question: What sparked you to start your business? How did the idea come about?

McClinton: I always had a passion for clothing and just putting certain looks together. But, my junior year of high school is when it all started. My two friends at the time, Dejuan Barney, who is still a part of the group, and Ashton Graham, had an idea that if we turn our hardships into creativity that nothing could stop us. And that’s the definition of our brand Deathtoheartbreaks. “Death to anything destructive or harmful that can be turned into creativity.” Since then we have added a few other members in Monty Chino, Ian Courtney Ferguson, and Jon Davis along the way.

Question: What advice would you give to young people looking to start their own business?

McClinton: I would say to trust yourself. That no one knows you like you know you. There have been plenty of times where I’ve been told, “that won’t work, or this won’t work” and you just got to have the fortitude to do it your way and to block out anyone or anything telling you to do otherwise.

Question: What are some of the necessary skills that you've seen are needed to run a successful business?

McClinton: TO HAVE THE RIGHT CONNECTIONS! It’s not what you know it’s always who you know. You have to be unafraid to put yourself out there. You can’t just be a figure behind the screen all the time. “Be Somebody, Be Somewhere.” – Dan Lok

Question: What have been some of your failures, and what have you learned from them? 

McClinton: Interestingly enough, I don't think I've hit that wall yet. Of course, there are always obstacles in the way. But I would say the only thing would be trying to wear too many hats at one time and communication between members at times. I know it stems from me liking things a certain way and never really relying on other people to do anything for me. But I would say it’s gotten better to a point where I have a great team around me that all know their roles and play them well.

Question: What motivates you?

McClinton: The once local stars that made it out. I think it’s so fascinating how the same people from my home area have found a way to make it out and are now making a name for themselves. They were once in the same shoes I’ve been in. And now they have become the ones where you can look to and say, “you can do it too.”

Question: How do you generate new ideas?

McClinton: Idea’s come from life experiences and the people that I meet in passing. Ideas and concepts are always flowing through our minds and it wouldn’t be us to not be thinking what’s next.

Question: How do you define success?

McClinton: Success to me is doing what you love and not having a care in the world what anybody has to say about it. Life is what you make it out to be. You can choose to make a great, or shitty. It’s your choice.

Question: How do you build a successful customer base?

McClinton: I seem to get this question a lot and all I have to say is to find your niche. Find your target audience and roll with it. If you aim for athletes and you actually have a skater crowd. Roll with what works. Don’t overthink your game plan just go and execute.

Question: Do you believe there is a formula for being a successful entrepreneur?

McClinton: There isn't a particular formula no, but all entrepreneurs have to go through one thing. And that's pain and hardships. It’s always going to be a struggle. Whether you not having the correct resources, money, people, equipment, there is always something that will be missing. You just got to learn to live with that and move along.

Question: Who is your greatest inspiration?

McClinton: Pharrell Williams by far. Ever since I was little it's been N.E.R.D and The Neptunes all day. The way he seems to be everywhere and do everything still amazes me. He's what I call a humble flexer. He knows he's the shit, but he will always play it off like it's nothing, it's so amazing.

Question: What is your favorite aspect of being a business owner?

McClinton: My favorite aspect is always the reaction. It’s really cool seeing someone react to your ideas, whether it be good or bad, any reaction I receive, I learn something from it. 

Question: How do you go about marketing your business?

McClinton: Conducting interviews is one, connecting with people who have the same minds as us, and just staying relevant. One of the greatest things about conducting interviews is you also learn something as well. You get to pick their brain and hopefully, you can come out of it and learn something from the conversation. 

Question: What sacrifices have you had to make to keep your business running?

McClinton: I wouldn’t call them sacrifices if you want it that bad. But it’d probably be the usual not going out to eat, partying, and impulse buying. Spending all the money you earned in a two-week period just buy some materials. Being late on some bills, the usual.

Question: What company or business do you admire most other than yours and why?

McClinton: Their two companies that I admire the most. And it’s one, they have a great story of overcoming great obstacles and two they’re just great companies. You would be a fool to not say Apple and BMW. These two companies have overcome the then dominated Microsoft company and the booming American car business into oblivion. From both being the laughing stock of the industry, on the verge of bankruptcy, too now pure luxury and excellence. You cannot beat that. Another player in the game would be Under Armor. Don’t be surprised if Under Armor becomes the leader of not just sportswear but casual wear as well.

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

McClinton: My plan is to bring something unique to the industry while also being true to myself. Bringing all different mediums together. I see myself and the brand as a stepping stool for other young and ambitious artists like myself a platform to branch out. Ultimately my future goal would be to have a fashion show here in Atlanta with other artists I appreciate to create something bigger and brighter for the community, while also making a name for myself in the industry.

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

McClinton: Season 09 shop is now open, make sure to go to our website at www.deathtoheartbreaks.com and subscribe so you can be the first to be up to date on new updates, releases, and articles. We have something special planned for the summer as well so be on the lookout for that.

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Exclusive | Laolu Talks Overcoming Depression and Her Return to Music

We talked with U.K. singer, Laolu, in an exclusive interview! This hot new singer was born and raised in South East London, and developed a kinship with music that has spanned much of her life. Laolu graduated in Commercial Music Performance, and it wasn’t long until Laolu was writing her own material and performing across a wide variety of venues including the Indigo O2, Somerset House as part of the ‘What Next’ Campaign supported by Bigga Fish, Cargo, Proud Camden, Street Fest London and the Queen of Hoxton. 

Her involvement in the ‘What Next’ Campaign saw her work with the likes of Little Simz and Katy B, supporting acts including Chipmunk, Ghetts, The Wombats and Miss Dynamite. Laolu worked with DJ and producer Blinkie at the very beginning of her career, who also introduced her to the artists J Warner and Benjamin AD. 

Laolu - “All In Me” (Music Video)

Laos is an honest soul who openly shares a struggle with depression, which  through her music she hopes she can inspire others going through similar issues. 

With her return to music, Laolu discovered a new understanding of the direction she wanted to take her sound and her music. The struggle with depression served as a source of inspiration for her upcoming release ‘All in Me’ which talks the listener through the journey she has experienced.

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

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

Laolu: I first starting singing in primary school around age 10, and started songwriting shortly after. The first time I ever sand was in the school choir and we sand ‘oh happy days’ from Sister act, I just remember everyone coming up to me after saying “oh my gosh you can sing, you can sing!”

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

Laolu: I am a huge fan of Brandy, Andre 3000, Kelis and Faith Evans, new school I like SZA, H.E.R and Toro Y Moi and I’m a huge Janelle Monae fan.

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

Laolu: I really would love to collaborate with James Fauntleroy or Syd (The Internetz) both are extremely talented and I feel we’d just vibe and create something special.

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

Laolu: If I’d have to choose I’d say my latest single ‘How To Feel’ I feel I really tapped back into the original R&B that only a few artists are still doing and I just love how the song develops from start to finish.

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

Laolu: I just love creating and being around others who have genuine love for the art of music, nothing beats being around musicians and just seeing the enjoyment on their faces. The love of music motivates me and overcoming depression and making music again.

Question: How do you generate new ideas?

Laolu: I go off what I experience in life, what my friends experience, sometimes it’s the energy I get when I’m in a session and the producers start creating.

Question: How do you describe your music to people?

Laolu: Honest R&B with a hint of alternative and raw lyricism, I don’t sugar coat what I write or sing about.

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

Laolu: No, I think some are lucky but longevity is granted to those who never stop loving what they do and always strive to grow and learn as a musician or artists. I feel right now we are in a time where people just want good music they’re not fussed about popularity they just want real music.

Question: Who is your greatest inspiration?

Laolu: That would be my family, we haven’t had it all the way easy but we never allowed things to deter us from what we all wished to achieve. My sisters a lawyer, my brothers a photographer, my other brothers in music and real estate and my mums been successful in all she’s done as single parent, I only hope to make them all proud.

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

Laolu: Probably Daniel Caesar, I believe his talent is so raw, his vocals are amazing and so effortless I believe him and H.E.R the singer are really doing solid R&B for the younger generation.

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

Laolu: Right now it’s a bit of everything, my E.P ‘All In Me’ that’s coming out later this year, is based off things I experienced whilst battling depression, I speak on every and about where I am now. 

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

Laolu: I don’t really have a social life, I’ve always been a home body but I have to invest in my music and my dream so not seeing friends and going out is a sacrifice I’m willing to make. All my money goes towards music so I don’t really see it as a sacrifice more of an investment.

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

Laolu: Most exciting process is getting the music out and performing live, seeing people vibe and just letting you know they appreciate and like what you’re doing. Discouraging aspect would be working towards a timeline and things getting pushed back, you know when you’re excited about a release and when it doesn’t go as planned it frustrating but I believe everything happens for a reason and just to trust the universe.

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

Laolu: Doing tours and being successful, I believe that the best is yet to come and I will continue to make music that’s honest and music that connects with people.

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

Laolu: Always look towards the end goal, remember why you started and keep going no matter what, it will not be easy some days you’ll question ‘why am I doing this’ you won’t always see results straight away but every seed planted will yield results at the right time. Remember to love what you’re doing and not to lose yourself in the hype.

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

Laolu: Please support my music, it’s literally been what helped me out of depression and I hope my music helps anyone else battling through it. Thank you for taking the time to listen and share xX

Laolu, Category: Artist, Singles: How To Feel, All In Me, Top Tracks: How To Feel, All In Me, Biography: Born and raised in South East London, Laolu has developed a kinship with music that has spanned much of her life., Monthly Listeners: 126, Where People Listen: London, Ilford, Brooklyn, Jacksonville, Cologne

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Exclusive | Nayome Discusses Her Debut EP and Pursuing Her Music Career

Nayome is an up and coming singer out of Texas! The 21 year old sing artist was born and raised in Tyler, Texas, but spent her teenage years growing up in the Dallas Metroplex city of Irving, Tx in the Valley Ranch area where she graduated from Ranchview High School. Nayome currently attends Texas State University and is pursuing a degree in Marketing. She loves to sing and dance and owns her own dancing organization called Queen Empire Dance at Texas State where she teaches heel dancing!

Check out Nomi's first music video to her single See You ft Vonte!

Nayome - “Fair Warning” (Music Video)

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

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

Nayome: Music has always been a part of my life and it’s in my DNA as I come from a family of aspiring musicians.  Growing up I always participated in school choirs from elementary to high school. It was in college where I discovered my love for writing song lyrics. Back in November 2017 I made a decision to step out of the shadows and write my first single “Missing You”. It was my first time going public with a song I wrote and I’m glad I made the move. I just wrote down how I felt in that moment in my notes on my phone and I didn’t actually record or finish up until 3 months later. Ever since I recorded that song, I’ve been so eager and motivated to write more and to share with the world!

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

Nayome: Honestly, there are too many to even list out as I have so many musical influences! For creative inspiration I listen to Erykah Badu or Bryson Tiller.  Beyoncé has been one of my favorite artists since Destiny’s Child. Her drive to keep outdoing what’s expected of her is truly amazing. At the moment, some of my favorite artists in my daily playlist consist of H.E.R, Alina Baraz, Xavier Omar, DVSN, Jhene Aiko, Ella Mai, SZA, Kehlani and so many more.  

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

Nayome: I’d love to collaborate with Alina Baraz one day!!!!!  I’ve been listening to her since 2015 and I love the way she writes her songs and the structure of her songs are simply amazing. She has that R&B/Electric Vibe that you can really feel while listening to her lyrically. Her most recent project “The Color of You” has been on a repeat since the day it came out. She’s truly a distinctive artist with a distinctive sound and I would love to see how our two styles mix together. 

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

Nayome: My best song so far in my opinion is my single “Fading.” This song is the second thing I’ve released and I pour a lot of emotion to the track. “Fading” is a relevant sequence of events that went on in my life that also played a part in my growth and it means a lot to me. I could say that it is the best yet most underrated song that I have released. I hold a lot of confidence in all my projects but when growth happens in my life it become a creative force to me and I think that’s a big motivator for me to keep going. 

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

Nayome: Knowing that I can do everything through Christ gives me a faith that constantly motivates me to keep pushing towards my passion. My mom is also someone who told me from the beginning to pursue my passion for singing.  I also want her to have everything she wants so if it takes me there that would be such a blessing to have the opportunity to bless her and others. Also, I still find it very surprising that people look up to me. I’ve had people tell me that I’m very inspiring by the way I go so aggressively towards my passions. If what I do with music motivates someone else to pursue their dreams then I think that’s all the success I need. Success is doing something that makes a person genuinely happy in life and everything that comes from that is just a benefit. 

Question: How do you generate new ideas?

Nayome: When it comes to my music I get inspired at the most random moments. One way of generating creativity is reflecting on my growth from life lessons and from there I will shut myself up in my room and focus on writing about my experiences. Another way is  I’ll be in my bed thinking about my day and I’ll turn on YouTube,  my TV and type in “R&B Type Beats” and just write down my feelings. I’ll generate new songs/ideas in the most random moments. It’s almost like my instincts tells me to stop what I’m doing and write about a feeling I have. 

Question: How do you describe your music to people?  

Nayome: I think my music is defined as “Vibey.” I would even go as far to say it will put you in the mood and make one feel like they have experienced the emotion I’m portraying in the song. 

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

Nayome: I don’t think there is a formula to success other than you HAVE to believe in yourself, stay consistent, and most of all to have FUN. 

Question: Who is your greatest inspiration?

Nayome: I would most definitely have to say Beyonce. She’s a hard worker and she goes above and beyond in everything she does, and not to mention how incredibly talented she is!!! She literally masters singing and dancing like its nothing major to do! 

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

Nayome: Once again, I think Beyonce is the most influential artist in the game right now because of how she simply changes the game every time she does something musically. Her live performances are unmatched!!! I’ve had the pleasure of attending her Formation tour and the experience was unreal and being there actually pushed me a step closer to pursuing my passion because one day I would love to sell out arenas and bring happiness to every single person that comes out.  

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

Nayome: Currently, I am writing music that reflects happiness, but it always changes. It depends on what I’m feeling when I’m writing but every time I’m writing the goal is for my listeners to feel like they are in my shoes experiencing the emotion that is reflected in my songs. 

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

Nayome: Sleepless nights taking a toll on my academic studies as well as taking a hit on my social life as I’ve lost some friends as I began to focus more on pursuing my music.

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

Nayome: I think the most exciting thing of making music is overcoming challenges. There are so many obstacles I face when writing my music/ recording my music. It’s the greatest feeling to overcome the obstacles that I face. I have become very quick to take on challenges as well such as making a song on a beat I’m not used to or just stepping out of my comfort zone in general, it’s a very fun process. Feeling discouraged is a type of mindset that I try to avoid having. I have to remind myself constantly that I can do anything I put my mind to. 

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

Nayome: In ten years, I see myself inspiring my generation and the generation behind me through my music. It’s a huge goal but with consistent growth in this industry I have no doubt that it can be achieved. 

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

Nayome: Don’t quit, stay consistent, and to stay true to themselves. The music industry is tough and it’s so easy to get discouraged and to remember to have fun with the process. Grow from the obstacles and keep pushing through.  

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

Nayome: I would like people to know that it’s very important to go for their passions. We only live once and it’s a better life when you are in control of your own life. I will try my absolute hardest to make sure my passion in singing/ writing is a part of my day to day life. I am working on my first EP. R E C O V E R Y+ that releases this Summer! I’m so excited to show the world what I’ve been working on and I hope that they catch the vibe!

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Exclusive | Robert Smith is Changing the Sneaker Game With Sole Simple LLC

By: Omar Cook

Our "Who's Hot?" Entrepreneur of the Week is Robert Smith a current NFL free agent and co-founder of Sole Simple LLC. Robert was born and raised in the Clifton section of Staten Island, New York and later relocated to Carteret, NJ for high school. He continued to further my football career at Saint Francis University in Pennsylvania. After graduating from Saint Francis, he went on to continue his masters in Technology Education at Jackson State while also finishing his last year of college football as a redshirt senior.

After finishing his college football career, Robert continued to pursue his dreams to play professional football. Smith went on to compete in the Washington Redskins Rookie mini camp, played professional football for the Hamburg Huskies in Hamburg, Germany, and recently did a private workout for the Baltimore Ravens.

While still pursuing his professional football career, Robert and his cousin Ryan came together to create a sneaker boutique business called Sole Simple. "We created  the business together because we both have a passion of collecting sneakers throughout the years since we were in high school. Now, we have our online web store open and we are soon to expand our brand to our first store front."

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

Question: What sparked you to start your business? How did the idea come about?

Smith: What made me want to start up Sole Simple is my motivation to find a way to pay myself when I couldn’t find a job. I always had an obsession for sneakers growing up as I was constantly going to sneaker conventions all throughout NYC when I was 16. Meeting people to trade, sell, and buy sneakers from others was an experience at a young age. When the job hunting was tough, I would sell some of my sneakers from my own collection to pay myself. After I graduated college, I came up with the name “Sole Simple” because to me it is a very unique name and also the idea of turning a hobby into a paycheck is really easy and simple. 

Question: What advice would you give to young people looking to start their own business?

Smith: I advise all the young entrepreneurs to make sure that they’re 1000% invested into themselves first before they invest in their brand. Too many people try to start a business and are not confident in their brand which leads to failure in the long run. Confidence is a big factor because you have to stand firm on why your products and or services separate your brand from others. If potential customers see that you are not confident in your brand, they will take their money elsewhere. If you don’t believe in yourself, why should someone else believe in you?

Question: What are some of the necessary skills that you've seen are needed to run a successful business?

Smith: Some skills that are I’ve personally seen that are needed is time management, self discipline, assertiveness, and work ethic. If you can master those four skills in your business, it will lead to great success throughout the years.

Question: What have been some of your failures, and what have you learned from them? 

Smith: The failures that I’ve faced in the business is sometimes investing in some sneakers that end up being easily accessible which everyone in the market calls “bricks”. Sometimes being caught up in the hype too much can lead to no gain in the return of the investment. The good thing about it is that sometimes you can return them and get your money back. One thing I’ve learned is to always do research extensively before you put your money in it. Self assurance is the best insurance in my book. 

Question: What motivates you?

Smith: My mother really is my motivation. She is the one who instilled great values as a man to always strive to want more for yourself and to never be content in anything I do. She really is the MVP in all of this!

Question: How do you generate new ideas?

Smith: I tend  to read books, listen to music, and create time for myself to think on how I can make my brand bigger than what it is now. I have a strong tendency to overthink every situation and that’s where I start thinking outside of the box. I try to create at least 2-3 ideas for my business everyday. 

Question: How do you define success?

Smith: Success is when you realize that your blessings will always be bigger and better than your burdens. Financial success is great of course but making sure that you are mentally and spiritually wealthy is even better. You can have all the money in the world but if you’re not right within, how do you expect to win? I believe that everyone is successful in their own way, shape, or form.   

Question: How did you build a successful customer base?

Smith: A great customer base starts off with a great reputation on social media. I started my customer base on social media where I would post up pairs of sneakers I wanted to sell on Twitter and Instagram. I started selling locally at first and gradually I would have random people hit me up on social media all throughout the U.S to purchase. I would write up an invoice and when they paid me, I would ship the sneakers to the address the customer provided. My customer base grew even bigger when I was playing professional football in Germany. When people in the U.S  couldn’t get their hands on a pair of sneakers that sold out, they would hit me up on Twitter and paid me to ship it to them from Germany.  

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

Smith: Besides supply and demand, I don’t believe there is a set formula to be a successful entrepreneur. Nowadays, there are so many people who have became successful entrepreneurs in their own way that it is hard for anyone to duplicate it. Just because your formula is working for your own company, doesn’t mean it will work the same for someone else’s brand. You have to find your own niche and capitalize on it in every way possible. 

Question: Who is your greatest inspiration?

Smith: As an entrepreneur, I would have to say Jay-Z because he embodies the definition of a businessman all the way. That transition from being a rapper to a successful business owner is something I strive to have especially being that I’m a professional athlete. As I listen to some of his old albums, I realize that he always had a mindset that separated him from other rappers in the industry. 

Question: What is your favorite aspect of being a business owner?

Smith: It’s a beautiful feeling being able to pay yourself and not having anyone tell you what to do or how to do it. Being your own boss and having your own hours is nothing short of immaculate to say the least. 

Question: How do you go about marketing your business?

Smith:  I balance social media marketing with traditional marketing. While marketing on social media, My partners and I would attend sneaker conventions, entrepreneur mixers, and other social events handing out business cards to people who fit our target market. I’m a firm believer in making sure to marketing the business on all avenues as much as possible. 

Question: What sacrifices have you had to make to keep your business running?

Smith: I sacrificed my social life. I’ve been so busy that I have less time to hang out with friends because every minute and hour has be productive towards expanding my brand. The party life ain’t going nowhere and I rather spend my money on my business than to spend it on things with no value. I treat my business as if it was of child of my own. 

Question: What company or business do you admire most other than yours and why?

Smith: Flight Club. They’ve been successful in the industry for several years and still continue to be. I aspire to have that longevity and strong reputation that they have in their business. 

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

Smith: I can see myself opening several locations outside of NYC with my partners and changing the sneaker head culture to something better than it ever was. People will see Sole Simple globally!

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

Smith: Yes. We have an online store up right now and I need everyone to follow us on all of our social networks. We are doing sneaker preorders on each release and we sell high end streetwear brands as well. 

Follow Robert Smith on twitter @solesimplellc

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Exclusive | Bradley Coleman is Taking PÄsCHer Clothing Line to the Next Level

By: Omar Cook

Our "Who's Hot?" Entrepreneur of the Week is Bradley Coleman, a 25 year old Father, Entrepreneur, and Football Coach. Bradley Coleman is the CEO and creator of a hot new fashion line called PÄsCHer. A Georgia native, Coleman grew up surrounded by culture the richly talented area of Atlanta. He is a former division 1 athlete where he attended college at Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and lettered 4 years in football.

Coleman also serves as a high school football coach at Peachtree Ridge HS in Suwanee, Georgia where he serves as the wide receivers coach. He has a one year old daughter (Amara) and spends alot of his free time on his own,  to reflect and plan out his business. "I like doing what I can to help others" says Coleman.

Shop PÄsCHer at  http://www.paschercollection.com

pasCHer Collection Clothing Line | CEO Bradley Coleman Interview

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

Question: What sparked you to start your business? How did the idea come about? 

Coleman: Having my daughter sparked me to go ahead and start my business. I had already been thinking about the idea. Once I found out she was on the way, I knew it was time. The idea came from Jesus. He woke me up out my sleep one night at 4 am and the first thing I heard was pascher. So I start researching everything and spent a year working on it before I even told anyone. 

Question: What advice would you give to young people looking to start their own business? 

Coleman: It’s not sweet. I feel like alot of people now a days want to start their own business which is a good thing; I love seeing people doing that but its alot of hard work that goes into it. It's not impossible, it's something you have to be willing to work hard at day in and day out. No matter how hard it gets, always keep your faith. Believe in yourself and your product or no one else will. 

Question: What are some of the necessary skills that you've seen are needed to run a successful business? 

Coleman: A good work ethic. Having good customer service skills and treating people the right way will take you and your business farther than you think. Being honest also. 

Question: What have been some of your failures, and what have you learned from them? 

Coleman: Not sending all my paperwork in to the IRS on time. I’ve learned that you have to read everything carefully, sometimes twice to make sure you have a clear understanding. Thats always important in business. 

Question: What motivates you? 

Coleman: My daughter Number one, just putting myself in a position to be able to always provide for her is the thing that motivates me most. I want to be able to give her the world one day. I know I can’t do that if I don’t get up and get it. My family also. My parents have been through alot and I put them through some things that I’d like to pay them back for. And I just want to be able to take care of them and my people. Not making it to the NFL motivates me because I let one of my dreams fail; I won’t let this one fail. 

Question: How do you generate new ideas? 

Coleman: Thinking about things I’ve seen around me on a daily basis and turning them into creative ideas to express myself. Brainstorming while listening to music. 

Question: How do you define success? 

Coleman: Success isn’t the result of making money, making money is a result of success. You determine your own success. Just because you have a million dollars, that doesnt mean you are a success. Being successful is doing something because you wanted to do it not because you had to or feel like you are forced to. If you always wanted to be a school teacher and you go on and become a school teacher THAT'S being successful. Setting a goal at something you want to achieve and doing it. 

Question: How do you build a successful customer base? 

Coleman: By always having good customer service and letting/showing your customers you appreciate their support and business. 

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

Coleman: Yes I believe there is. Hard work, faith, and will. Being able to see your vision when nobody else can. 

Question: Who is your greatest inspiration? 

Coleman: Eric Thomas 

Question: What is your favorite aspect of being a business owner? 

Coleman: Being able to do things exactly how I want to and when I want to. If something goes wrong then its on me. 

Question: How do you go about marketing your business? 

Coleman: I do alot of social media marketing, passing out business cards, networking at different business events around the city. I only wear my brand. So I kind of feel like a walking billboard. 

Question: What sacrifices have you had to make to keep your business running? 

Coleman: Going without, just so my daughter and business can have the things that they need. Putting all my money into it, having faith that it’ll turn into more. Staying up two and three days in a row just to make sure everything gets done. 

pasCHer Collection | “Welcome To The City” Commercial 2018

Question: What company or business do you admire most other than yours and why? 

Coleman: Ralph Lauren, because his company is in the same field as mine and he’s managed to stay at the top of the game for a long time. His fashion pieces are timeless and that’s something that I always aim for. 

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

Coleman: I see myself being a very successful entrepreneur and pasCHer at the top of the fashion industry. Being the most worn clothing line around the world. 

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

Coleman: PäsCHer is how you walk, how you talk, or how one carries or conducts themselves among others. It’s your approach or attitude. PäsCHer is the pronunciation of the French influenced word posture, originated in the late 16th century. Creative thinking, individuality, and elegance are some of the many characteristics that make up what we like to call “päsCHer.” We are a new trend-setting, international timeless fashion house, influencing lives and culture on a daily basis. päsCHer is a lifestyle. 

Follow Bradley Coleman on twitter @pascher_

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Exclusive | 2 Milly Talks His Hit Song "Milly Rock" and the Release of His Debut Mixtape

New York rapper 2 Milly hit instant success when his hit song "Milly Rock" blew up the airwaves. It all started during a block party in Brooklyn three years ago when Spike Lee was celebrating the 25th anniversary for Spike Lee film Do the Right Thing. 2 Milly felt the energy of the crowd, became possessed by the music and jumped on top of a car, and began performing his “Milly Rock” dance.

Fans in the crowd began to film his performance and uploaded it to social media and youtube and instantly he became an overnight sensation. The videos went viral which sparked a craze of people uploading videos of their versions of the milly rock dance. The craze had gotten so popular that even Chris Brown, Wiz Khalifa and Rihanna joined in, uploading their own rendition of the “Milly Rock.” 

2 Milly - “Milly Rock” Music Video

“The dance has always been around. It was just a turn up with me and my friends. It was just a good vibe,” 2 Milly explains. “I’m drinking Bombay and orange juice so I get on top of a car and start milly rocking for like two or three minutes. The next day, they’re hitting me up like ‘you’re famous. I was like I only did that in front of 90 people. Imagine if I could do that in front of 90,000 people. So let me make a song to it.” And that’s exactly what he did.

 A year later, 2 Milly released the anthem for the dance, titled "Milly Rock." By the end of the summer, the video reached over a million views on YouTube. He had garnered so much attention that platinum rapper Travis $cott brought Milly and his Sturdy Gang/Stack Paper crew on-stage during his performance at the influential New York City festival Hot 97 Summer Jam. He is now traveling the country on his Sturdy Way Tour and awaiting the release of debut mixtape Only the Sturdy Survive.

Born in Brooklyn and raised in the Bedford–Stuyvesant neighborhood, 2 Milly came up hard like every other kid in the hood. Crammed in a two-bedroom apartment with his mother, father and three brothers, growing up was “really rough,” he recalls. So to ease the stomach rumblings, he jumped into the streets at age 13, engaging in illegal activities for survival.“We did what we had to do,” he clarifies.  And while many of his friends and members of his Sturdy Gang/Stack Paper crew were catching cases left and right, Milly managed to keep his nose clean, which helped him earn his nickname. 

We talked with 2Milly in an exclusive interview, check it out below!

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

2 Milly: I’ve been making music since I was 13 when I lived across the street from the studio but I took it serious when I made Milly Rock, the dance is what really got me started.

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

2 Milly: My biggest influences are Fabulous, Lil Wayne & Biggie. My all time favorite musician is Camron but right now Migos, Jay Critch, and Meek Mill are on my daily playlist.

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

2 Milly: I would most likely collaborate with someone of my character such as Migos, Jay Critch, Rich The Kid, Rihanna, Travis Scott and Desiigner.

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

2 Milly: Best song ever released hmmmm personally I think it's “Sleepin” Ft PNB Rock, but I would definitely say Milly Rock because of the amount of success.

2Milliy - “Sleepin” featuring PNB Rock (Music Video)

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

2 Milly: My family and friends motivate me but mostly my daughter just knowing I came from a struggle I never would want her to go through.

Question: How do you generate new ideas?

2 Milly: I travel, go to different places, I read and just get high. I go somewhere by myself and smoke and think.

Question: How do you describe your music to people?

2 Milly: My music is pretty much my life so I’d say it’s a description of me.

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

2 Milly: Nowadays I can say no, pretty much anything is acceptable. It’s color ya hair, tat ya face, and repeat the same words or auto tune.

Question: Who is your greatest inspiration?

2 Milly: Greatest inspiration is Migos, they my brothers probably the realest ni***s I met in the industry.

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

2 Milly: I’ll say P. Diddy, his numbers don’t lie lol.

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

2 Milly: Passion I actually speak my story, I actually tell my stories in the form of music. 

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

2 Milly: I stayed away from home on Christmas thanksgiving, yea I missed a few events lol.

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

2 Milly: Success and failure, pretty much explains itself.

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

2 Milly: Soundtrack for multimillion dollar selling movies through the nation, platinum records and just a billion dollar brand.

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

2 Milly: Hard work beats talent.

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

2 Milly: Listen and don’t just skim through it. 

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Exclusive | R&B Newcomer Damar Jackson is Putting on for Louisiana

R&B newcomer Damar Jackson is a star. The talented singer out of DeRidder, Louisiana has an  impressive confidence that makes it clear he knows exactly where he belongs. As a young prodigy who began playing the drums and keys at his church at the age of 9, Jackson stood in awe of great vocal performances as far back as he can remember, watching greats like Prince and Michael Jackson. His mother, also a singer in the church, fully nurtured his talent, enrolling him in music lessons as soon as she discovered her son’s innate talent.

By the time he was in high school, Damar knew exactly where he was headed; the only question was how. “When I was in high school, if you wanted to get money you were either selling candy, selling drugs or selling mixtapes,” he recalls. “So I had this song I wrote with my boy. And I figured out how to record it on my keyboard and put that one song on blank CDs.” 

A band scholarship would lead him to the University of Louisiana at Monroe, and while there, Damar continued to create opportunities to promote his music all while honing his craft. “The whole time I was in school, I was creating my sound,” he says. “So I turned my room into a recording studio.”  He booked and promoted his own shows, which would lead to opportunities to open for artists like Bobby V, Day 26, and Ludacris. 

As he prepared for graduation as a Mass Communications major, a chance Twitter encounter lead him to an internship with Def Jam Record’s Atlanta office. His intern days were not without their share of challenges as Damar recalls sleeping in his car after events to make sure he made it to work on time. Damar continued to perfect his craft as a songwriter and producer, contributing to K-Camp’s success with songs like the hit single “Comfortable.” 

His debut single “ Crazy, ” in which he revisits the last days of the relationship that sustained him during his early years in Atlanta, is an emotional rollercoaster both musically and lyrically. “We got to a point where she saw the success coming,” he explains, “but even though I thought we had been preparing for the late nights and work trips, it started driving her crazy.” As he puts the finishing touches on his debut project, from which the single is drawn, Damar promises more of the same “I be trying to tell both sides of everything. There’s a lot that comes with the decision to choose to take it there with a woman that you don’t plan on marrying. But a lot of guys aren’t honest about the consequences, not just what you’re doing to her, but how it affects you too.” 

With his debut project nearly ready to hit the public, Damar Jackson is set to make his mark on the music industry as a singer, songwriter, and producer.

Damar Jackson - No Protection ft. Kash Doll (Music Video)

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

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

Jackson: For 8 years and I got started playing the drums. I discovered my gifts early and kept sharpening my tools. 

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

Jackson: R Kelly, Ryan Leslie, Static Major, T Pain, Usher and more and every artist that made an impact in the game I studied and have been influenced by. 

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

Jackson: Kanye West and I think he might inspire me to create something different if we get in the lab. 

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

Jackson: I don’t have best song yet, I’m still growing with the music but my best project so far is Unfaithful. 

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

Jackson: My gifts motivate me, and everyone that’s depending on me. Success is defined by your goals. Being happy with your life and decisions. 

Question: How do you generate new ideas?

Jackson: Always brainstorming and being a forward thinker. 

Question: How do you describe your music to people?

Jackson: ratchet, passionate, raw, soulful 

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

Jackson: there’s no formula but there are some basic principles you should know and practice 

Question: Who is your greatest inspiration?

Jackson: God

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

Jackson: Chris Brown, he’s still out here cutting up. Making hits, clothing line, movies etc. salute CB

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

Jackson: passion, it’s a real story.   

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

Jackson: Too many to name, going broke, missing moments with family, losing sleep, working desperately but now working out of confidence. 

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

Jackson: Nothing discounting me because I love the whole process. I’m a real artist so I make the best, mix it, pull up pro tools, record and mix it and upload it to iTunes. 

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

Jackson: One of the biggest icons in the world. 

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

Jackson: Don’t stop grinding and connect the dots. Stay prayed up. Make the right sacrifices and believe in yourself no matter who doesn’t support you.

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