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Artist Spotlight: Nick Nubz

Nick Nubz

Today, we sat down with our artist Nick Nubz 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 actually had a big play in the musician I am today. In the beginning, the local a scene was almost all punk, no rapbbv at all. There was a few white kids who tried to rap but nobody taking it seriously as a craft and an art. I came up into the local discussion around 10th grade and by senior year… everybody and their mother was a “rapper”. This geared me more into recording others including myself from a home studio. I went to school for Audio and graduated 2013. I heavily maintained my home studio while performing at local venues in Asbury like The Stone Pony, The Saint & and Strand Theater in Lakewood. Meeting bigger local acts and event coordinators like Chris Rockwell helped my act transform into a tangible brand and not just the ideas in my head charting back to 14 years old. To this day, I still perform rarely, but my company Nublife Entertainment aims to push New Jersey into the rap conversation. From my experience Ocean County in general has produced some quality material and I believe there’s something here in this tiny state. My hometown Lacey is filled with my supporters and friends as well. It has shaped my music and myself as a man.

2. If you could single out one artist or band that has influenced you, who would that be and why?

Eminem is the obvious answer being that I’m white and he had a big play on the rapping end of things but honestly.. Childish Gambino was more of an influence on me and my music. The man is versatile, clever, rhythmic, innovative and more than anything he’s honest. I love that, I look for that in other artist and I expect it out of myself. Hopefully what I’ve released so far under the Nick Nubz name has made that at least somewhat visible to my listeners.

3. If you won the lottery tomorrow, what is the first thing you would buy?

Hmm after taxes takes their piece of the pie, I’d probably pay off all of the debt I’ve ever acquired throughout my life and take one long breathe of relief.

4. What is your advice to fellow underground musicians in regards to remaining discipline in your craft?

My advice is never look at this lightly. Never take an opportunity at face value and follow the plan God has laid out for you. Any show, any sized crowd, any reason to be loud in what you do and why, take it! If you don’t have a why additional advice would be to get one because you already barely have a chance let alone with an under-developed act. DON’T BE COCKY/ARROGANT & RUDE because you think you’re fire, kiss any relationship worth anything beneficial later goodbye. Oh and be real. If you lie to me in your song, I will immediately feel you are a liar and honestly dismiss it as some clown sh*t.

5. Do you have any songwriting or recording tips you’d like to share?

Sure, always double check, triple check, run through it until your sick of it because that’s when you’ll see what the song/beat/mix whatever needs to improve. You may change your delivery, the mix, the overall recording itself, anything needing to be re-done, shows you what could be better or what you liked more after the changes, change back. Take the hours needed to perfect what you’re doing, overall check over everything.

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 brother Christopher Alu is a professional actor so we’ve always had a connection in our respective fields. My uncle Donny was a musician and he has always heavily believed in me. My father and I don’t really speak and he doesn’t like rap but he has enjoyed a handful of songs. My Mom on the other hand has always been extremely supportive of all of us. She was wearing a neck brace and still jumping front row at The Stone Pony years ago, we’ve never had a lot of money but she’s been a big help since moving out and living on my own with the music/business life. Some friends are real big fans and crazy supportive, some good friends became enemies, it goes that way when you give your everything for a vision.

7. If you could open up for one famous artist or band, who would that be and why?

I would kill to open for Eminem or Childish Gambino with the same enthusiasm. I feel like our sets could be the same vibe plus #biggoals.

8. If you could have a dinner with one musician who is no longer living, who would that be and why?

Hmm I’m going with Tupac, I feel like we’d have some great lively conversation and I know I’d leave that table and would have learned a lot.

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?

The thing I’ve enjoyed most would be just the fact that they are consistent. The feeling of growth is in every message and opportunity and it’s a wild notion to me that we are across the country and yet able to rely on one another. My advice for the new artist joining the roster is don’t say yes to working together unless you are ready to put the time in necessary and the sacrifice needed to make the big doors open!

10. In ten years, where do you see your music career?

If all goes according to plan in 10 years, I will have at least 5 or more full length albums released following the 3 I have already made. A large catalog of commercial singles that I also like. The tickets will be less than what my show would be worth and I am hopefully still building and only growing more. I hope in 10 years from now I’ve not only made it into the mainstream discussion but I have earned it through the very hard work I mentioned multiple times in these answers. Famous? who knows. Successful? Absolutely.

Artist Spotlight: Krystal Brown

Krystal Brown

Today, we sat down with our artist Krystal Brown for an interview. Here is what she had to say:

1. How has your hometown shaped who you are as a musician today?

I am from Chesapeake, Virginia originally. Things are a bit slower there. It is not like LA or New York. Maybe that is why I really don’t jump on trends. I make the music that I consider good music. I don’t worry about “is trap hot now?” or” is this hot?” or “is that hot?” Everything is hot to someone I suppose. I just make what I consider good. Being that the music scene is not really “happening” here, you really have to put yourself out there and promote, promote, promote. You just cannot rest on your laurels. This is not a town where people get a lot of big breaks. Things don’t happen by accident here. If you want to be great, an opportunity just doesn’t fall in your lap. You’ve got to really pursue it.

2. If you could single out one artist or band that has influenced you, who would that be and why?

I try not to copy anyone. We can only be ourselves….all other positions are taken, you know? That being said, I have always liked Depeche Mode. They make good moody electronic music. Their songwriter Martin Gore is just phenomenal. He has written songs that have dealt with almost every facet of the human experience. I do admire them and the fact that they’ve put out good music over a period of decades. They are not a flash in the pan. And they’ve overcome a lot and have not given up. They’ve dealt with cancer, alcoholism, drug problems etc., and have not given up. I also admire Solange Knowles a lot. Growing up in the shadow of Beyonce had to be a bit difficult and even when she grew up and released her own music, people still compare them. She just does her own thing regardless of what is trending and I admire that. She also have a very beautiful and soothing voice.

3. If you won the lottery tomorrow, what is the first thing you would buy?

To be honest, I probably would buy some land and open up an animal shelter/sanctuary. I am a major animal lover. Animals are my other passion besides music. I have a bearded dragon, a cat, a crested gecko and several different types of toads. I would also do a lot of music promotion, record another album and do some investing. I am not the type of person who likes to put all of her eggs in one basket.

4. What is your advice to fellow underground musicians in regards to remaining discipline in your craft?

I would advise them to be yourself as everyone else is already taken! The most interesting musicians are the ones who don’t try to be the next Rihanna or the next Beyonce. Those positions are taken. Just be yourself and don’t worry about the trends. Also just persevere. It can be depressing to think that you are putting all of this time and effort into making music and that people aren’t listening. But you never know who you might influence or when that big break could come. And you want to be ready for it.

5. Do you have any songwriting or recording tips you’d like to share?

I always use index cards to help me in songwriting. I will have one for the pre-chorus, one for the chorus, one for the first verse and so on. You can then put the cards in the right order and then you have your song together. And if you need to switch up the order, you can do that easily. I find it easier to write by hand than on a computer for some odd reason.

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?

They’ve been supportive. But at the same time, sometimes people believe that you will not ever really “get there”. Which is understandable because a lot of people don’t make it and are unable to make a career out of their music. A lot of times people lose interest or stop paying attention because they think it is not going to happen for you and they want you to have a back up plan. So, you cannot take it personally. You have to believe in you and just continue to do your thing.

7. If you could open up for one famous artist or band, who would that be and why?

Kelly Rowland. She has done everything from R&B (“Dirty Laundry”) to dance/EDM (“Commander”, “When Love Takes Over”) to rock (“Stole”). Her tastes are very eclectic and so are mine. She has also been in one of the biggest selling girl groups of all time, so I know she has some good tips on longevity in the industry.

8. If you could have a dinner with one musician who is no longer living, who would that be and why?

Jeff Buckley. I loved “the Last Goodbye” and his cover of “Hallelujah”. I think he was a very talented musician and songwriter. He also had a fantastic vocal range.

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 have enjoyed the fact that someone is always checking in on me multiple times a week. A lot of times, people are not that attentive to their artists and you feel like people are really slacking on trying to help you in your career. At LiquidSound, they do really try to help you and personalize their program to fit your needs. My advice is to go for it and give it a shot. You could easily waste the same amount of money or more trying to “go at it alone” so you might as well give that money to someone who knows what he is really doing and has been there and done that with regards to pushing artist careers. Ryan Katz is really great and does try to help his artists!

10. In ten years, where do you see your music career?

I see myself selling albums and singles and doing very well. I will be financially stable and releasing the type of music I want to release….the type of music that is true to me. I want to have at least one platinum record or EP. I am speaking it into existence. Our thoughts create reality!

Artist Spotlight: Cheef Bali

Cheef Bali

Today, we sat down with our artist Cheef Bali for an interview. Here is what he had to say:

1. How has your hometown shaped who you are as a musician today?

Funny I was just telling my brother in law this. Although I’m not from the suburbs I wouldn’t change growing up in Newark for anything.The city has taught me how to survive,How to think on my feet, how to appreciate community and family there’s a certain pride that comes with being from Newark and Jersey Period.

2. If you could single out one artist or band that has influenced you, who would that be and why?

Stevie Wonder personally is the greatest singer/songwriter ever! The way he visioned (ironic) words and the texture of his songs and how they were written still to this day is incredible. Jay-Z would be my second.

3. If you won the lottery tomorrow, what is the first thing you would buy?

Major stock in something.

4. What is your advice to fellow underground musicians in regards to remaining discipline in your craft?

Always stay current. I never get when rappers say they don’t listen to other artists when they are asked. To me, there’s no basketball player on earth who doesn’t watch basketball lol! Always stay 5 steps ahead of your competition by staying current and innovative.

5. Do you have any songwriting or recording tips you’d like to share?

Find your voice, meaning don’t be afraid to be you. When recording if you think it record it it just might be a smash or a great idea. Remember, you can always edit it later if not.

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?

Shout out my whole 420ent and 8squadrebelradio family and my M.O.B squad. I am blessed to be surrounded by much love and support for years.

7. If you could open up for one famous artist or band, who would that be and why?

Jay-Z. He is the greatest rapper of all time to me. It would be an honor to open up for him. I already opened up for Kool Herc which was a milestone for me.

8. If you could have a dinner with one musician who is no longer living, who would that be and why?

James Brown/Kurt Cobain. Both because they created new sounds and genres in music. The impact of their personal lives and music has inspired generations.

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 have enjoyed all the learning and useful info that LiquidSound Records provides. Outlets that I didn’t know existed, and my advice would be to stay consistent and take advantage of all the opportunities they present you with.

10. In ten years, where do you see your music career?

In 10 years, I see my music being impactful and therapeutic like it is to me for people. Music has always served as a way for me to vent and or tell my truth without feeling like it wouldn’t be accepted or valued.So I would hope that I could share that same gift with someone that listens to my music and or the world eventually.

Artist Spotlight: Justo

Justo

Today, we sat down with our artist Justo for an interview. Here is what he had to say:

1. How has your hometown shaped who you are as a musician today?

My situation is rather unique, due to partially being raised in multiple cities. I would like to explain how each city has influenced my musical background. First, New York City in the 80’s was full of culture, from Hip Hop to Latin Jazz. Growing up and being able to witness street musicians and having a DJ’ing uncle, who taught me how to mix vinyl and use a turntable, gave me a head start. Once I felt the power of spinning vinyl and selecting songs in which I liked, this is a major contributing factor of later creating my own music. My second home town is Detroit, which blessed me with further exposure by having a DJ’ing cousin. My cousin was spinning Hip Hop and I was able to provide him with the newest Hip Hop songs from my summer trips back to NYC. Detroit’s music scene with deep rooted in R&B, Techno, and later Neo Soul, which helped build the foundation of my current style. This is why you’ll hear lots of instrumentation on Boom Bap lyrics.

2. If you could single out one artist or band that has influenced you, who would that be and why?

LL Cool J, Nas & The Roots have influenced me the most. From mid-80’s -90’s it was LL Cool J with his lyrical abilities to come hard and story tale, and he always had a song for the ladies. His videos were always state of the art and he was ultimately a great performer, and who has become a great actor. LL figured out the formula for a hardcore street MC to cross over without losing creditability. Nas — his first album, Illmatic was life changing.

3. If you won the lottery tomorrow, what is the first thing you would buy?

The first thing I would do is pay off our current home. Next purchase would be land, preferably by water, and I would build homes for family members.

4. What is your advice to fellow underground musicians in regards to remaining discipline in your craft?

First, develop your own style. Stay true to your art and the fashion in which you have been blessed with. understand your gift in your lane. Continue to work on improvement, but also add to the skills that you already feel efficient in. Never be afraid express your art from your heart. Ultimately don’t lose passion and having fun.

5. Do you have any songwriting or recording tips you’d like to share?

Writing: Stay on topic. Stay relevant. Have purpose to each song. Recording: Be prepared, practice, and fully know your song prior to recording at a studio, I’ve written a couple courses at the studio, but the majority of my work has been prerecorded and perfected at home.

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?

Family and friends have always respected my music career, but very minimum support.

7. If you could open up for one famous artist or band, who would that be and why?

The Roots, just because of how much of an influence they have meant to me and inspired me. To gain their respect and potentially have an opportunity to rock with them, would be a dream come true.

8. If you could have a dinner with one musician who is no longer living, who would that be and why?

I would say Prince, and why because he’s fucking Prince. He is one of the greatest artists ever. He is a great musician, composer, writer, producer, coach, business man… performer. A very close second would be J Dilla, although I was able to go to his home and hang out with him, I wasn’t able to have the in-depth conversation, I would have with him today.

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?

Knowledge, and the almost daily updates and the opportunities are astounding, which leads to me answer of the second part of the question, please get an assistant to help you with these opportunities.

10. In ten years, where do you see your music career?

In ten years, I hope to have a minimal of 1 dozen full length releases. This includes personal LP’s and instrumental albums. I also hope to have multiple lines of businesses revolving around entertainment. I hope to have multiple artist, which I’ve developed, as well as a diversified stream of revenue coming in. I also hope to have major support from the music industry, have a Grammy or two, and have movie credits. Lastly, I hope to have a chain of community centers in Urban areas, that teach music, and have sports as an outlet.

Artist Spotlight: INF Black

INF Black

Today, we sat down with our artist INF Black for an interview. Here is what he had to say:

1. How has your hometown shaped who you are as a musician today?

Well im from Parkhill, STATEN ISLAND NEW YORK….known as the fifth borough. Home of the WuTang CLan. I grew up under some of those guys…knowing members personally. Back when i was a lil sponge…growing up…when they made it….i wuz about 11 yrs oLd. Seeing them on television….and shooting the music videos around the way….gave me alot of inspiration. See where we come from in that section of Staten Island…many dont make it. Not onLy is it politicaL being from Staten Island as compared to BrookLyn….which is rite across the bridge. …In the music worLd….itz also a geographical thing. So in a nutshell….we have to fight harder to be heard….within the 5 boros of New York City. Politically…the people in power always wanted Staten Island to be considered a clean…no crime area. MeanwhiLe…itz full of Dope heads…and several low income areas where the people…mainLy of my complexion suffer the most. Unlike Brooklyn….Bronxx …etc….we dont get no light….but aint no difference on them streets….onLy difference is the agenda. WuTang had to open them doors and really let the worLd know wat was goin on. Being from SHAOLIN…also where Caucasian sneva wanted us there anyway. Most black families in Staten Island since the 70s…were not born in Staten Island….they migrated there from the other boroughs.(HarLem..BrookLyn…Bronx…Queens)

2. If you could single out one artist or band that has influenced you, who would that be and why?

It would have to be the WUTANG CLAN. I grew up knowing Method Man…Raekwon…UGod…etc…and alot of their famiLy members. Goin to shows….being back stage…was all great experiences for me that made me. Also if yall remember “KING JUST”…from Black Fist…which was distributed by Select Records back in the 90s…..is also from my neighborhood. Grew up younger than them dudes….but rite under them….gave me alot of inspiration.

3. If you won the lottery tomorrow, what is the first thing you would buy?

If i won the lottery tomorrow….i would buy my momma a house. She deserves it. WouLd take her far away from these project buildings….pissy staircases and elevators. Make her comfortable….for the rest of her precious years.

4. What is your advice to fellow underground musicians in regards to remaining discipline in your craft?

My advice to my fellow musicians on the come up. Same advice I keep telling myself. Stay studying your craft. Stay diligent….persistant… neva give up. Everybody is someone special….in their own way.

5. Do you have any songwriting or recording tips you’d like to share?

I usually…listen to a beat for a couple of days….sometimes…something might hit me as soon as i hear the beat. It all depends. But i always follow my heart and vibrations. Some words come out non stop…some take a min…..but i zone in on my topic…and constantLy…tryin to catch the rhythm as i go along.

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?

I get alotta support from my friends…who constantLy tell me to keep going….think deeper. My family iz there. Sometimes itz difficult for certain people to see happening….especially if itz not there DREAM. Especially when less then 5 percent…or lower actually can sell tickets or generate a fan base…to create a suitabLe income….u dig.

7. If you could open up for one famous artist or band, who would that be and why?

If I could open up for an artist….it would be NAS… AZ….or DMX….because….i respect real raps and reaL personas…..real life….speakin on real shii. A couple of my favorites. Plus i feeL like those guys were big influences on me as a young fan.

8. If you could have a dinner with one musician who is no longer living, who would that be and why?

If i couLd have dinner…wit a deceased artist….i probably could name a few….but i would have to say….NatKingCoLe…Miles Davis…and Tupac & BiGGie…to name a few. Legends*

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 enjoy the information that LiquidSound provides. If you are an independent artist like myself….you need all the help you can get. Everything from information ….to know how….promotion and marketing….and most importantly….”THE PLUGS”. The bridges or links we need to success….that we probably cant attain on our own… A link to one meeting….conversation….or event*

10. In ten years, where do you see your music career?

In ten years i see my music career growing…wit every fan …person…or consumer….i can touch. I also see my music growing. If you compare my verses from ” UGOD PRESENTS THE HILLSIDE SCRAMBLERS”…COMPILATION ALBUM BACK IN 2005….THAT I DID WIT UGOD OF WUTANG CLAN….DISTRIBUTED BY SYNERGY DISTRIBUTION…..TO MY DEBUT SOLO MIXTAPE “CONCRETE JUNGLE”…RECENTLY RELEASED….THEN YOU KNOW WAT IM TALKIN BOUT. IN TEN YEARS….I SEE MY MESSAGE BEING PLANTED ACROSS THE GLOBE. I ALSO SEE MY MUSIC IN TELEVISION..AND CINEMA. I SEE MY CAREER GOIN FROM MUSIC TO FILM. I ALSO SEE MYSELF INVOLVED….CONSTANTLY LEARNING…AND EMBRACING ANY NEW ENDEAVORS THAT RUN PARALLEL.

Artist Spotlight: Big Blaze Propane

Big Blaze Propane

Today, we sat down with our artist Big Blaze Propane for an interview. Here is what he had to say:

1. How has your hometown shaped who you are as a musician today?

My home town helped shaped who i am as a musician by allowing me to see and feel the struggle. Waking up everyday to death by violence, by police, by suicide made me see how much help we really need. If there’s one thing i know about music is that it lets out energy and vibes and in this world we need good energy and eerie vibes, so with that being said. I speak the unspoken. And its only unspoken because when spoken about. Nothing changes.. We need more people to stand together.

2. If you could single out one artist or band that has influenced you, who would that be and why?

Let’s see, if I could single out one musician whom expired me hands dow it would have to be slim shady aka Eminem. I feel like Em went thru a lot of stuff for me learned and shared his experience
With me and showed me no matter what you have to say, say it. Doesn’t matter how anyone else feels because those are your feelings that matter also. He showed me that if you fight for what you believe in, Miracles can happen. Shout out to 8 mile. Ya’ll raised a real one. #salute

3. If you won the lottery tomorrow, what is the first thing you would buy?

If I won the lottery, the first thing i would buy is studio equipment and a place to record, lol thats a lot of first I know. I sleep music, think music, feel music, i love music. Its been to many nights were I’m just up with music in my head but i cant record because I’m on others time. So in order to do what i love because i love what i do, i have to invest in self. You must invest in self, remember that. If it’s handed to you it can be taken from you. Own it. Make it yours, thats my plan.

4. What is your advice to fellow underground musicians in regards to remaining discipline in your craft?

My advice to underground artists in having discipline in self is simple. Remember what you’re doing it for thats the easiest way to stay focused. If what you’re doin it for means that much to you trust me, you’ll stay focused. Will it be hard? Yes. Because anything worth having is not going to come easy, but once you’ve obtained what you desired it’ll all be worth it. Just remember as you progress step by step, pat yourself on the back every accomplishment as you deserve it.

5. Do you have any songwriting or recording tips you’d like to share?

My tips for songwriting and recording is to just put your heart in it. Once you grab somebody’s feelings it’s hard for them not to listen. Don’t be ashamed for what you’re about to say because there’s someone out there who wants to say the same thing but don’t know how. Singing your lyrics can help the next person become stronger. Or help them see that they’re not the only one, i believe if you have the gift of music its for a reason, you were chosen to be apart of this world. The question is, what are you going to do with your blessing.

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 really supports me in my vision of becoming one of the greatest. My lil brother (DroopSmith) is also a musician so we really help each other out if need be. My mother actually designed my logo for me and has my shirt hanging up on her wall. My close friends love seeing me perform on stage it be a straight turnup. Do right by you people they’ll do right by you.

7. If you could open up for one famous artist or band, who would that be and why?

This might be a little short but I’d love to open up for Eminem so he can see that he helped shaped somebody in an awesome way. If you never felt that feeling before. Its like a feeling of accomplishment and if you’re still wondering why i chose em.. He’s the G.O.A.T

8. If you could have a dinner with one musician who is no longer living, who would that be and why?

If I could eat dinner with one deceased musician, it would have to be the great Michael Jackson. When he passed, I dropped a tear then I asked myself why but i think its because at that moment i felt he was like my family. My daughters twelve now and she loves MJ. She doesn’t know much about him i even had to pull up his younger songs like (candy girl) and ( Rockin Robin) MJ put a lot into a lot of us he was so loved man, you ever walk into a room and people start passing out? Lol didn’t think so. Somebody like that i would love to meet over dinner.

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?

My time with LiquidSound Records has been great but the one thing I love most is not feeling like I’m to alone out here. Being independent is hard because its people out here that doesn’t have your best interest at heart. For future artist who might want to join LSR, do your research on them first. Once you see its legit get ready to be a part of the family. And I only say do your research because thats what I did. Then I fell in love with the thought of having backup.

10. In ten years, where do you see your music career?

In ten years, I see my music career where I want it to be. I want people to see me and know me from my music which I aim to inspire people. I see people talking about how I helped them through hard times with my music. By then, I would have dropped a few country albums, yes country. To me music is music. Longs your soul bleeds music notes you can do whatever you want. Im not settling for any stereotype.



Artist Spotlight: Hypnosis

Hypnosis

Today, we sat down with our artist Hypnosis for an interview. Here is what he had to say:

1. How has your hometown shaped who you are as a musician today?

Well to be honest it wasn’t my hometown, it was the experience I received working with several producers. They helped me understand the background of the music, taught me to write and flow a lot better as well as learn to have a little fun with the music. Can’t be serious all the time.

2. If you could single out one artist or band that has influenced you, who would that be and why?

In all honesty I would have to select a few artists, Eminem for his lyrical methods and word play, NF and Enkay 47 for the connection they make with their fan base, MGK before he ruined his career because he made me believe it is possible to make a movement and make it from nothing. Tech nine, the way he flows and the tongue twisters he pulls off are amazing and a huge influence on my music.

3. If you won the lottery tomorrow, what is the first thing you would buy?

First thing I’d buy is a new home for me and my family.

4. What is your advice to fellow underground musicians in regards to remaining discipline in your craft?


The only advice I can give is to stay focused, and let the haters hate. However, listen to the constructive criticism.

5. Do you have any songwriting or recording tips you’d like to share?

I don’t really have tips other than to extend your vocabulary as well as to have fun with your music and to express all of your passion… never hold back.

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 has been very supportive to be honest and they also like to pick on the fact that I “yell at the mic” . But they always try to make me do better and they’ve had my back since the get go. Much love and appreciation for them.

7. If you could open up for one famous artist or band, who would that be and why?

I would love to open up for NF, Strange Music or Eminem. Those would be dreams coming true!

8. If you could have a dinner with one musician who is no longer living, who would that be and why?

I would choose Bob Marley to be honest. I would like to get his insights on many questions I have.

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 would most definitely choose to be a LiquidSound Records member. It’s been a great experience and I know this is a great team to be in.

10. In ten years, where do you see your music career?

I honestly don’t know where I will be and I don’t care for the fame. Music is a passion of mine, I just want to keep making music.

Artist Spotlight: Mic Breeze

Mic Breeze

Today, we sat down with our artist Mic Breeze for an interview. Here is what he had to say:

1. How has your hometown shaped who you are as a musician today?

Being from Durham, NC I had to grow up with tough skin. I was never the biggest kid in the bunch so I got picked on a bit. I grew up in the hood and was raised by my Guardian. I learned how to hustle by any means in Durham and got praised for my craftiness and swift tongue.I got to witness things at a young age that many don’t understand. I think it made my music come off as dark and dangerous. I was a wild kid who was in and out of trouble and my friends were just a rough. The Bull City can be difficult to survive.

2. If you could single out one artist or band that has influenced you, who would that be and why?

I grew up listening to Eminem, Outcast and Red Hot Chili Peppers. I related to a lot of Eminem’s past with my biological mother and his anger helped me through a lot. Outcast music was always fun and over the top which appealed to my humour and the beats always hit hard with the most creative flows. My guardian who I call Mom used to blare Red Hot Chili Peppers in her old Toyota Supra so I think that expanded my musical horizons and gave me an open mind to quality music of substance.

3. If you won the lottery tomorrow, what is the first thing you would buy?

If I won the lottery I would hire a team to market my music and manage my social media. I would invest 25% of my earning into stocks and bonds. I would start a clothing line with art created by troubled youth to encourage positivity and focus beyond the streets. I’d also buy an RV so I could travel as far as the roads extend sharing the music I’ve dedicated my life too.. I’d like to pay off my guardians car and house. Of course I’d buy some type of expensive car to stunt in.

4. What is your advice to fellow underground musicians in regards to remaining discipline in your craft?

Don’t worry about who supports you locally. Research the industry, focus on your craft and invest in yourself. Pin point your niche market and exploit it with everything you have to offer. Your friends won’t support you until people you never met before do. Create momentum and run with it.

5. Do you have any songwriting or recording tips you’d like to share?

My writing process is odd. I’ll write to 2-3 different tracks at a time so I don’t get writer’s block on one subject. I typically write a verse then switch the beat and write another. Only time I write a track from start to finish is if it really resonates with me and I’m trying to get some thoughts and feelings off my chest.

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 guardian supports me from afar. Like many of my friends she thinks it’s a long shot for me but she recognizes my talent as do most anyone who takes the time to listen to my music.. I have some friends that I consider family and as a team we all keep each other grounded and driven.

7. If you could open up for one famous artist or band, who would that be and why?

I would love to open up for Joyner Lucas or MGK.. I think we would complement each other well and I’ve always wanted to kick it with them and the vibes are there!!

8. If you could have a dinner with one musician who is no longer living, who would that be and why?

Mac Miller. I was never a huge fan when he first came on to the scene but his music grew on me and the deeper I listened to more of his pain I began to feel. I want to know how becoming famous changed him for better and worse and I want to know what I should watch out for. I’d want to know his secret to blowing up as an independent artist cause that’s my dream over being signed.

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?

The number one thing I have enjoyed is the consistency and communication. Artist who are interested I’d recommend that they enter with an open mind. There’s a lot of valuable info to be had and many opportunities to submit for.

10. In ten years, where do you see your music career?

In 10 years I can’t call it. I’m 29 years old and life is a roller coaster. I’d hope to see myself as a full time artist. I don’t have aspirations of being a mega rich A List celebrity although it would be an amazing accomplishment. I just want to wake up and get paid to do something I love. I’ve always heard if you live what you do you’ll never work a day in your life. I live music and I have sacrificed a lot to remain consistent in my craft.

Artist Spotlight: Jay-Day

Jay-Day

Today, we sat down with our artist Jay-Day for an interview. Here is what he had to say:

1. How has your hometown shaped who you are as a musician today?

Growing up Ive always knew this was the only thing i cud do. With Choir and Vocal Jazz in high school; my Singing started my persona. My rapping followed behind as it slowly progressed as would hang out with some friends of mine. I would like to say overall my hometown gave me and shaped me a different perspective on my own reality and how i see things in life based on the music I grew up around.

2. If you could single out one artist or band that has influenced you, who would that be and why?

Oooh. thats a tough one theres a lot of artists that influence me both living and/or dead. If i had to truly choose ONLY 1… id say B.O.B. He seems like a pretty chill dude and we kind of have the same type of mindset. To me what he represents spitting truth, being u, and changing the world. In the end of the day i keep this mindset daily which helps me “strive for excellence”

3. If you won the lottery tomorrow, what is the first thing you would buy?

I would buy the perfect house for my family. A nice mansion with 3-4 levels. Got to have a nice rec room for the family. A big pool in the back fenced in so My dogs can run freely. Get myself a professional Studio and green room in the basement not to mention a room for my wife so she can start her business. And a 6-12 car garage.

4. What is your advice to fellow underground musicians in regards to remaining discipline in your craft?

Stay focused. Keep Consistent. If u have a dream; no matter what it is never stop. Always strive for what u expect in life. Your vision is your supernatural gift that u can use it to create your reality. Make the right choices/investments to improve yourself or your career. In the end in the wise words of Notorious BIG, ” We cant change the world unless we change ourselves.”

5. Do you have any songwriting or recording tips you’d like to share?

I would say when it comes with songwriting do what feels write. Stay true to yourself but still be creative. theres no need to write about stuff you didn’t do or accomplished. people want to know/hear who you are; not about what u don’t have but say in a track to sound cool. Some people might not like what you write, but keep in mind in the end music is how you perceive it.

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 has always supported me. Since the age of 2 from me singing in the shower to now slowly transitioning my craft to a more professional setting i get nothing but love and support. With growing up, raising a family, work, and my music; most of my friends have mixed feelings. Some give me gratitude, some hate. A couple started falling into drugs and blame me for their failure cause my focus was more on my craft and my life rather then dealing with their drama and hanging with them. I don’t need that negative vibe around me. Positive vibes only.

7. If you could open up for one famous artist or band, who would that be and why?

If I could open up for one famous artist i would have to say B.O.B. Southmatic to me was amazing. The way he flows and his lyricism is crazy. I believe that my music intertwines or is comparable with his fanbase along with his music being in a way in between generations. He says what is on mind along with myself when it comes to songwriting.

8. If you could have a dinner with one musician who is no longer living, who would that be and why?

XXXTentacion, God bless his soul. id have a dinner with X to understand more of what went on in his mind. X to me had a lot of theories and facts that not a lot of people don’t like to OR don’t want to talk about. X just like Tupac kept it real. Just to be able to sit across from the dude as he expresses the depths of his conscious would not only be entertaining but would be very informative.

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?

With the time I’ve been with LiquidSound Records the #1 thing I love the most is the support and constant communication. Being independent can be difficult especially if u have no true support. In the 10 years of doing music none of my friends I thought were there to support me and help me grow did not give the support and help I needed. With the help of LSR I’ve learned more of the business aspect of things when it comes to looking more professional along with a team that helps with distribution and media art. The opportunities that have been provided to me makes me more determined and motivated than I’ve ever been. Thank You LSR! To the artists of the future: take a risk, you only live once “Strive to be the best of you!”

10. In ten years, where do you see your music career?

In ten years, I see myself successful in all areas along with getting signed to a major record label. My clothing line StriveWear will be global. My music will be viral streaming on all platforms. I will be certified on Youtube, Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. I will have a successful shoe-line called StriveSteps. I will no longer have to worry about nothing cause I stuck to what I believed in and all my work and dedication finally paid off.

Artist Spotlight: Premo Predican

Premo Predican

Today, we sat down with our artist Premo Predican for an interview. Here is what he had to say:

1. How has your hometown shaped who you are as a musician today?

Fort Worth, Texas made me into the artist that I am today because of diversity of different cultures growing up in my city I had to learn to adapt urban struggles.

2. If you could single out one artist or band that has influenced you, who would that be and why?

If I could single out one artist that influenced me it will be Prince because he was a innovator that did music people were scared to do.

3. If you won the lottery tomorrow, what is the first thing you would buy?

If I win the lottery the first thing I would do is hop on a plane to Amsterdam or Egypt then I will start figuring my plans out.

4. What is your advice to fellow underground musicians in regards to remaining discipline in your craft?

The advice that I will give a underground musician is be original do not sell short or let no man tell you what true or not cuz if you believe you will achieve.

5. Do you have any songwriting or recording tips you’d like to share?

When writing always keep original concepts to paint a picture on what your displaying an art form the biggest thing about recording is do not let the moment intimidate you some people get scared when they stand in front of that microphone.

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 have been highly supported of my career and they still push me to keep going because they feel I have something that I can offer the world.

7. If you could open up for one famous artist or band, who would that be and why?

If I could open up for one artist it will be Anderson Paak I am a big fan he is my favorite artist of this time it will be honor his energy his performance.

8. If you could have a dinner with one musician who is no longer living, who would that be and why?

It will be Prince because I would like to pick his mind ask him questions what drives him.

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?

The things I enjoy about LiquidSound Records is that Ryan work personally with you and help build your brand all work is done in a professional manner true guidance as long as you put in the work results will show.

10. In ten years, where do you see your music career?

10 years from now I want to be known as a innovator the whole concept of the world to bring forward true of existence for those who don’t know universal consciousness.