1.What inspired you to pursue a career in music, and when did you first realize you wanted to be a musician?
My main inspiration is the simple fact that I KNOW i can succeed at this! I am the full package! When teachers tell their students "You can be whatever you want to be as long as you work hard and stay dedicated," that is true for me. I first realized I wanted to rap back in 2006. but i didn't start to take it SERIOUSLY until 2020.
2.What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced as an emerging artist, and how have you overcome them?
The biggest challenge I have faced is financial! The most important thing for an artist is marketing and promotion, which is also the most expensive! I also deal with depression which makes it very difficult to stay motivated and focused at times. And of course being a father and working a 9-5 takes time and energy away from my music as well.
3.Who are some of your biggest musical influences, and how have they shaped your sound and style?
My three biggest influences are 2pac, T.I., and Nipsey Hussle. I loved 2pac's versatility, T.I.'s delivery, and Nipsey Hussle's authenticity. I try to incorporate those attributes into my music as much as possible.
4.How do you approach the songwriting process, and where do you draw inspiration from for your lyrics and melodies?
I usually listen to a number of instrumentals and as soon as I hear one i like i begin to write to it. And what i write depends on the vibe of the beat and how it makes me feel.As far as inspiration, it can come from literally ANYTHING! I can go from being born and raised in Compton to gangbanging to going to catholic school to being in love to being a father.... I've learned to really dig deep and pull from my knowledge and experiences.
5.What can listeners expect from your upcoming album or project, and how does it differ from your previous work?
My next project is more of an R&B vibe. Really getting into the details of a relationship. I really had to dig deep and draw out those feelings and emotions that we all deal with when we are in a relationship/in love. My previous work i feel has led up to me being more open with my perspectives and emotions from this point on.
6.How has your background or life experiences influenced your music and artistic vision?
You can definitely tell I am all the way WEST COAST! That is all i really know! Born in '88 and raised in Compton my introduction to rap was NWA and then 2pac soon after. My life experiences make me who I am! My MUSIC IS WHO IS AM!
7. Can you talk about a particularly memorable or inspiring performance you've had, and what made it special?
My first performance on an actual stage was EPIC! prior to this show i was always on the ground floor performing, level with the audience. But this show gave me a whole different feeling! My crowd control, energy, engagement, and stage presence were on 100! From that point on, my energy has only gone up!
8.What do you hope listeners take away from your music, and what message do you want to convey through your art?
I would like listeners to see the picture i am painting for them, be able to easily view things from my perspective, understand that perspective even if they do not agree, and also learn the lesson i am trying to articulate to them (without me being to preachy of course). Every song i create has it's own message. Whether its is to be proud of who you are and where you are from, respecting the culture and each other, having fun, being aware, etc...
9.How has the music industry changed since you first started, and how have you adapted to those changes as an artist?
It has become much easier to reach the masses with all of the streaming platforms. And with companies like TuneCore and DistroKid, it is much easier for up and coming artists to reach the masses. And when u find the right marketing and promotion company to work with to get your music in front of people and learn how to get the most out of social media, the possibilities are endless!!!
10.What advice would you give to other emerging artists who are just starting out in the industry?
Emerging artists should know that you MUST INVEST MONEY INTO THIS PROFESSION ONE WAY OR ANOTHER! Recording, mixing and mastering, artwork, distribution, videos, show slots, marketing and promo..... You can still make it if you aren't rich or have connections, it will just take more time, work, dedication, and sacrifice.