1. Can you tell us about your latest project and the inspiration behind it?
Answer: My newest and latest project is entitled the “Ex List”. The inspiration came from me wanting to be a voice for men when it comes to my R&B style. I feel women have had many amazing voices that represent them well and I want this project to present an unique perspective on how women have come into my life and have touched and shaped the way I view life, love and the essence of being loved.
2. How has your music evolved since you first started in the industry?
Answer: Through my years of doing music, since I was 9, my writing style and my willingness to be vulnerable has completely changed. I have become more willing to tap into different genres of music. At the beginning I was trying to find a sound to fit me, now I look to myself and my own feelings to bring my music to life.
3. What sets your music apart from other artists in the hip-hop scene?
Answer: I feel my music sets me about because I’m not defined by one genre of music. My taste in music has become eclectic over the years and I bring those elements into my own music. I feel through my music people will be able to step out of comfort zones and set new standards of emotions and feelings.
4. Who are some of your biggest musical influences and how have they impacted your sound?
Answer: I would say my biggest musical influences would be Prince, Tupac, Lil Wayne, Partynextdoor and Chris Brown. All of these artists are unique in their own rights but Prince would be my absolute biggest. The way he made music that he loved and allowed the world to follow, hit home when I was growing up. My sound is impacted by these artists because my sound is mine and I’m not defined or limited by industry standards.
5. How do you navigate the challenges of balancing artistic expression and commercial success in your music?
Answer: Like I stated in the last question, I don’t want to be defined or limited by industry standards. I’ve always told myself and those around me that there are 8 billion people in the world, there is a market for everybody and if the masses don’t see it, it doesn’t mean you won’t gain commercial success, but staying true to yourself as an artist should always be our number one priority as an artist.
6. Can you share any memorable moments or experiences from your career so far?
Answer: I’ve been doing music since I was 9, as stated earlier, and my first memorable moment would be singing in front of my mom for the first time and watching her cry and having this overwhelming feeling that I want to do this for the rest of my life. Another moment would be meeting multiple already famous artists and getting positive reviews of my music.
7. What can fans expect from your upcoming performances or releases?
Answers: I want my fans to look forward to more growth in my music and in my performances. I want them to know that they have found an artist that will never change or sacrifice and always give them the best I have to offer. More music and a ton of albums.
8. How do you stay connected with your audience and engage with fans, both online and offline?
Answers: With fans I like to send snippets online to get early perspectives, my DMs are always open for any kind of conversation. Offline is a little harder for me unless I catch them at a venue. Outside of the spotlight and online, I’m sort of a private family guy.
9. What advice do you have for aspiring artists looking to make a name for themselves in the industry?
Answer: My advice would be to understand the ins and outs of the industry and you don’t have to sacrifice yourself in order to be heard. Find your sound, push your music, get in the audience’s face and don’t feel you have to conform because what you see is popular now. Stay true to your gift and shine in your light. The world will greet you and bask in the light you create.
10. Lastly, how do you see the future of hip-hop evolving, and where do you see yourself fitting into that landscape?
Answer: In my opinion Hip-Hop is transitioning into a great place where it is almost as if the old is meeting the new. The love from past generations and the art itself is becoming greater. The samples that we are hearing is refreshing and nods to where we came from and how far we have to go. I honestly feel I do see myself fitting right in and helping take this music we all love to greater heights.
