RocSteady
Today, we sat down with our artist Rocsteady for an interview. Here is what he had to say:
1. How has your hometown shaped who you are as a musician today?
My hometown helped shaped me. Through its underground music circuit which my older cousin was apart of. He was always my mentor when it came to music and art. He introduced me to people that were pertinent in Rochester New York’s music scene. Some of them coached me on how to work out my lyrics and put songs together. My town’s underground scene when I was growing up was always that gritty boom bap street knowlege kind of sound. My music reflects that just from my view point and story.
2. If you could single out one artist or band that has influenced you, who would that be and why?
J cole influences me the most. Because his come up reflects my come up. He was a kid rapping at home went to college graduated. Worked many part time jobs did music on the side until he finally just said forget working and went to the source got denied. Didn’t let that stop him re worked his music and tried again. It’s so crazy because I listen to not only his music but his story toward his dream and it’s really a reflection like I’m doin the same thing. I’m at the step now we’re I’m ready to just say forget a nine to 5 and go to the source. Difference is I’m not tryna get a deal with Roc Nation but I want one from his label. I’m ready to literally go to the source and take that leap with J cole just as he did with Jay Z.
3. If you won the lottery tomorrow, what is the first thing you would buy?
First thing imma buy if I hit the lottery is definitely gonna be a house. Then I’m goin to pay off my debt. Then I’m goin to start a label and invest mad money into promotion for my music.
4. What is your advice to fellow underground musicians in regards to remaining discipline in your craft?
Advice I would give fellow underground musicians is never take no for an answer. If there’s a will there’s a way. Always look out for yourself first before you do anyone else. Invest in your self wether it be time or money always invest. Create on a daily because practice makes perfect. Always promote your brand in anyway possible. And network network network!!!!
5. Do you have any songwriting or recording tips you’d like to share?
When it comes to song writing, I tend to do a mixture of things. I listen to my favorite artists for a few hours. Then take my beat for the song upload it to my phone. Grab headphones and go for a walk and listen to that beat on repeat while I walk I freestyle ideas for songs hooks or a verse. Then once I find a hook or a verse/song idea I start the writing process. When it comes to recording I always come prepared especially if I’m paying by the hour I always have my music written. Never go to studio to write music. It wastes time that could be used to record.
6. How does your family and close friends feel about your music career? Have they always been supportive or have there been issues in the past?
My family and friends want me to stay independent as a hip hop artist. They believe that if I get signed to a major label, I’m goin to get taken advantage of and never be happy. My family has backed me since I started making music.
7. If you could open up for one famous artist or band, who would that be and why?
If I could open for anyone in the music industry it would be J cole. I say J cole because I have a similar sounds As far as music goes. I would also use the opportunity to pitch my music to him.
8. If you could have a dinner with one musician who is no longer living, who would that be and why?
I would go to dinner with Tupac Shakur. I could only imagine having a conversation with him about current politics. It just would be interesting to hear what pac views on current society are.
9. In your time with LiquidSound Records, what is the number one thing you have enjoyed the most? Also, what is your advice to those artists who would be interested in joining the roster in the future?
I really enjoyed the fact that there is constant consist communication. Any information was given directly to me which made me feel connected on more personal level. Advice I can give anyone coming in to the roster is just to continue to work hard and be persistent. If you need help, don’t hesitate to ask. They are here to help build you in the right direction.
10. In ten years, where do you see your music career?
Where I see myself in the next ten years is that I’m way farther with my music career. I should be able to live off my music. From my streams to my shows. With that being said, I’m goin to continue to grind.