Let's introduce you to our readers? Tell us a bit about yourself.
I've been into Hip Hop since I was 6 years old. Before I got into creating music I was just a super fan. I have a degree in audio engineering and I am the owner/operator of Hella Loud recording Studio in Long Beach, CA. I produce music for myself and other independent artists. I am also the host and creator of the Long Beach, CA. public radio show "all things DOPE"
What inspired you to start creating music, and how has your journey evolved since you began?
I had friends that were rapping in high school so I started rapping. That evolved into recording myself and making beats, Then I eventually went to school for music to make it my profession since it's what I'm passionate about. The way my journey has evolved since I began is that my priority has shifted from myself to others. I started out rapping and trying to push my own career. Over time, after becoming an audio engineer, I found joy in using my knowledge and skills to help bring other creative's ideas into reality. I still push myself as a solo artist and creator, but for the purpose of building my name and making people aware that I'm available to collaborate, produce, mix, and master music.
How would you describe your sound and style to someone who has never heard your music before?
I've lived through different eras and am a fan of a lot of styles of music and sub genres of hip hop. I'm influenced by a lot of things and I channel them into my own sound that's a blend of different styles and eras but it always slaps.
What’s your creative process like when producing a track or writing music? Do you have any unique rituals or habits?
I like starting without a plan and just seeing what happens. I might have a specific sample or drums I want to start with but from there I just kind of feel it out. Sometimes a song is completely done in my head then I just take whats in my head and make it a reality. I have a lot of records so I also like to grab random records and see if I can find something to sample to make tracks too.
Who are your biggest musical influences, and how have they shaped your sound or approach to production?
my biggest musical influences are the 90's 2000's Hip Hop songs I "grew up with" I'm influenced by the greats so I strive to make music that's at that level. I make music I like, and I feel like the great MC's of our time would listen to and be like, "I want to rap on THAT."
What challenges have you faced as an independent artist, and how have you overcome them?
My biggest Challenges have been getting my music to the public. I've managed to get a small online following and book some shows around the LA/OC area, but I still struggle to build a fan base. Like most independent artists I wear multiple hats. I'm the artist, producer, engineer, graphic artist, camera man, video editor, social media manager, booking manager, etc. The creative energy to make music is always there but the other stuff doesn't always happen just because I get occupied with doing other things that I need to do survive. To help overcome this I just do what I can when I can on my own time to promote myself.
What’s been the most memorable moment in your music career so far?
There was a show that I was added to at the last minute. I performed last and had a great set. The handfull of people in the crowd were giving me great energy. The energy of that feeling of the crowd being into it as much as me was amazing.
What can fans expect from you in the near future, and how can they best support your work?
I'm hosting a weekly radio show on 99.1 FM Long Beach, CA. public radio. The show is called "all things DOPE" and airs Thursdays @ 4PM CA. time. Fans can support the show by listening to the show online at www.klbp.org. I also have been making music with a couple of artists. These collaborations will be released throughout 2025. Fans can support by listening to and sharing the music.
To wrap things up, we’ve gotta ask—what’s your all-time favorite sci-fi movie? It’s practically a Beats Freaks Geeks tradition!
Close Encounters of the Third Kind
Thanks for sharing your story with us! We look forward to seeing what's in store for the future!
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