1. What drew you to the music industry?
For as long as I can remember I have always had a love for rap and hip hop. As I entered high school I met a couple students who were heavily involved in the Hip Hop culture who also shared the same passion as me, but in a different way. Their involvement with the craft was driven by the desire for money, fame and respect, I however, had different motives. Soon after, I sought the voice of the Lord and heard the calling God had placed on my life. I then understood what I was called to do, and from then on pursued my passion to make rap with a reason. I aim to take a primarily evil form of entertainment used by the enemy and flip it in such a way that it will give God his all deserving glory, challenge and encourage all those who listen and most importantly reach the lost who do not know Jesus to be their Lord and Savior.
2. Who are you inspired by?
First and foremost my Lord and savior Jesus Christ and what he exemplified in the Bible and what He has done in my life. In addition to that my inspiration comes from my life’s journey; rather it is the trials or the triumphs. Both of those play a huge part in my music.
3. Is your family musical/describe your family member’s musical interests and abilities?
I wouldn’t say that my family is musical; however my dad does have a love for playing the guitar and piano. I would definitely attribute him as a part of my passion for music.
4. Please explain your creative writing process?
Generally, I will feel led to do a song and speak on a specific topic. Then the writing process begins after I find the beat or “instrumental” that fits the vision for the song I have in my head. I always prefer to write my lyrics to a beat that way I can flow with it accordingly.
5. What are your fondest musical memories? In your house? In your neighborhood or town?
My fondest musical memories in my house just happened recently. As I was putting the final touches on my most recent single “Victory”, my kids were having the best time and so much fun just dancing around the studio and singing along with the song! It was awesome to see.
The fondest musical memory in my town, would have to be in 2009 at my “Triumphant” album release party, which was my first studio album. The impact of the message was huge and went such a long way in encouraging people at the show and through the CD. In addition to that the crowd in attendance was huge! It was an awesome time!
6. Who are your favorite musicians? Groups? CD’s?
My favorite rapper would have to be Flame. I have been a listener of his since around 2007. He continues to put out fantastic Christ centered music and his message of Jesus has never been watered down. I love his musical style and passion!
7. Do you collaborate with others? What is that process?
I have collaborated with several people in the past and still continue to do so. Generally, when I’m in the process of writing a song and I get a feel for it, ill then know who to call upon that will end up being a good fit for the song, or match the style of the song. I love to build relationships with other like-minded artists that grow into a friendship and have them feature in my music.
8. Have you ever dealt with performance anxiety?
Thankfully and all glory to God, I wouldn’t say that I have ever dealt with performance anxiety. I have however gotten some butterflies in my stomach and a little bit of nervousness but that’s about it. Whenever I get on stage, I simply let go and let God!
9. Tell me about your favorite performance venues?
I cant say that I have a favorite venue, but I will say whenever it is a big event like an album release, those are my favorite! There is just an energy in the air!
10. How do you handle mistakes during a performance?
I don’t really sweat it. All glory to God, I haven’t made many mistakes while performing. If I do I just brush it off, mistakes happen and nobody is perfect.
11. What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?
Work harder than anybody else! Try to be as innovative and creative as possible when it comes to marketing yourself and creating your music. Don’t be afraid to give away cd’s and merchandise. Give out your contact info as much as possible and be yourself, don’t try to copy anyone else! Take every opportunity you can get (within reason) and make the most out of it!
12. Could you briefly describe the music-making process?
I begin the process by finding the perfect beat to fit the song concept I want to write about. After I write the song, I schedule a time to go to the studio and record it. Once the recording process is finished, I bounce all the tracks and send them off to be mixed and mastered. From that point I will continue to finish the album (unless a specific song will be used as a single) and then I will send my music to distribution.
13. How has your music evolved since you first began singing and writing songs? My music has evolved drastically in every way possible, from my writing style to my confidence to my quality and everything in between.
14. What has been your biggest challenge as an artist? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how?
The biggest challenge I’ve had to face as an artist is to get the proper exposure. The market is so saturated with music and upcoming artists its very much an uphill battle to get noticed. You just have to be persistent and market yourself adamantly!
15. Which songs do you perform most frequently?
The songs I perform most frequently would have to be “Never Give Up”, “Victory” and “Salute”. All of them are very upbeat and motivational, when I perform these songs, the crowd loves to participate.
16. What are the main themes or topics for most of your songs? Do you think these topics will change over time?
I feel as if my music has many different “themes or topics” but if I had to choose I would say the theme of being triumphant and an overcomer in Jesus.
17. How do you balance your music with other obligations – such as family?
I am very blessed in this area, because I have such a wonderful and supportive wife and family. My wife is very understanding about my being passionate for music. She actually loves to help me in everything that I do and loves to be involved! My children also love to be “a part” as much as they can be, which typically means dancing around the house singing one of my songs!
The music ministry can definitely take a lot of time and energy but it’s very important to always prioritize. The Lord and family come first, then music and everything else.