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Artist Spotlight: 66NOCID6

66NOCID6

 

 

Today, we sat down with our artist 66NOCID6 for an interview. Here is what he had to say:

 

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

I think it made me and my music very diverse because growing up I was friends with anybody and everybody and with that comes listening to many different types of music and understanding different styles, likes and dislikes. Its a small town and i grew up poor so i think it also taught me how to survive and make the best with what ive got. Because of that i learned how to get things done with whatever i had available so now i can make all my own music and merch by myself, whenever i want.

 

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

Its really tough to single out just one from a ton of artists I could list but I guess I’d have to say the Insane Clown Posse because they have a wide range of songs that include funny, violent, poetic, political and more. And I’ve always been really impressed with the massive, supportive and welcoming following that they created, in the time they did, with the look and reputation they had, its pretty crazy when you really think about it. They showed me that anything is possible if you really invest your heart and mind into it. Violent J is one of the top lyricist of our time but he unfortunately almost always gets overlooked when people discuss good lyricists.

 

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

I would buy my grandmas house for her. She raised me there and I helped her take care of my great grandma in her final days in that house too. Now my grandma needs some help herself as she is getting older and is battling cancer but her landlord passed away recently and the new one is really making her life miserable and it hurts me to know I cant do anything about it all just because I don’t have that kind of money.

 

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

Talent doesn’t make virtuosos, 10,000 hours of practice makes virtuosos. Always try to challenge yourself but first and foremost just keep doing it and eventually you’ll be a pro and you’ll make it to wherever you want to be in this profession. If you’re hitting a wall, what works for me is to try to find inspiration in that field. For example if you cant find the words you need, don’t be afraid to use a dictionary or thesaurus, or read anything that you might be interested in and that might spark the idea or words you’re missing. If you’re not sure how to write about a certain subject or make a specific style of beat then just start researching it as much as you can, dig deep and eventually you’ll get it.

 

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

Don’t let anyone tell you that you need specific programs or brands of equipment to make good music. It can all get very complicated and people can be very opinionated when it comes to this but if the music you’re making sounds good in the end then it doesn’t really matter what program(s) you used or what speakers, headphones, mic or any other equipment you have may be. If it works for you then work it to the fullest.

 

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 have a pretty big family but unfortunately none of them support me or my cousin that I do all this with. I think a lot of people feel like I’m wasting my time, money and efforts chasing music as a career. I’m not sure if any of them even believe that I could actually make it one day. I’ve had people that are close to me tell me that music isn’t a real job and even if its bringing money in its just a hobby till it can fully pay my bills., Ironically those same people don’t support. As for my friends, i did have a ton of friends that supported me in the beginning but for one reason or another most of them don’t or can’t support anymore either.

 

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

Eminem, because he’s one of my favorite rappers, he too has greatly inspired me to do what I do, and if I’m opening up any show he’s a part of then ill know I finally made it.

 

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

Joey Jordison, because he was an amazing drummer that inspired me to pick up a set of drums myself. I got to meet him a couple times and he was an awesome person. I’ll never forget the first time I saw him tear it up while his entire kit lifted into the air, tilted vertically and then spun around in circles. What a show! R.I.P. Joey.

 

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 enjoy all of the opportunities I have now to get my music out there and I don’t have to spend the time hunting it all down myself so I can focus more on my music now. If anyone out there is thinking about joining or is still a little reluctant, id say just try it for a month, you more than likely wont regret it!

 

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

Hopefully I’ll be performing big arenas and festivals and maybe even inspiring the next generation of musicians the same way my idols did for me. Hopefully music will be paying my bills, but even if it doesn’t, I know ill always make music because its just a passion of mine.

 

Artist Spotlight: Shocace

Shocace

 

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

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

Yes, my hometown shaped me as a musician. I’m a product of my environment, which simply means, growing up in the ghetto and inter-city had a lasting impression on how I did music. I lived in poverty, surrounded by gang violence, drug dealing, and lack of jobs and opportunities. I was introduce to hip hop, and begin to write and rap about what I seen and what I had to go through.

 

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

I have 2 artist that influenced me growing up. That was 2pac Shakur and Notorious B.I.G. These 2 rap artist was the best rappers at the time. 2pac inspired me to what about real life and things I was going through, and Biggie inspired me to be witty with words, using metaphors and similes to entertain the audience.

 

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

A house for my wife.

 

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

Perfect your craft. Write songs everyday. Develop a fan base. Record at the studio. Take your music serious. Invest in yourself.

 

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

As for as recording, memorizing your songs are key to not wasting studio time. Time is money. The more you are prepared, the more you can get done. As for as writing, do it daily. The more you write, the better you get. Find the best song writing format that works for you.

 

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 are my biggest supporters. I have a great support system. Not everyone love my music, but everyone respect my grind and hard work. I focus only on those who support me, and not the folks that don’t.

 

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

I would open up for Jay Z. He’s the greatest rapper in todays hip hop arena.

 

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

It would be 2pac. I believe 2pac was prophetic, and since I’m also a prophetic rap artist, I have a few questions I would as him concerning the path he choose that cause him to lose his life, and not the path God had for 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?

LiquidSound records is very professional. They keep their word on what they can do for the artist. My experience has been great. I have seen opportunities open through the help and services of LiquidSound.

 

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

In 10 years, I see my self on tour performing my music in front of thousands of fans. I see my music transcending through out history by entertaining people, and saving lives.

Artist Spotlight: Bear

Bear

 

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

 

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

What a great question! I come from a small country town in Michigan, and to be completely honest you do not see many people “make it big” around here. So being in the position to have done that and being able to go even farther with it really motivates me. I had a kid from my town come up to me after I performed at a local festival a few years back. He said to me very calmly but with seriousness “You are what gives small town kids like me hope”. I did not realize it at the time just how impactful that was to me. When I feel discouraged or defeated by this industry i just remember what that kid said to me and the fire burns a little hotter inside.

 

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

That is a tough one! There has been a few who have influenced me at different parts of my life, but IF i have to choose only one I would have to go with Eminem. Cliche? Maybe, BUT we are from the same state and Marshal has helped me through some extremely tough times in my life and just as many great days. I look at him as the mentor i havent met yet. We will eventually, i am FOCUSED. There is so much to this for me. I want to learn from the best. Lets be solid here, Em is the best hands down. Just to be able to have a conversation with him would be so dope. I look forward to it. The stars will align.

 

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

The very first thing that I would buy would be, well not buy but I would pay off my mortgage so I owned my home outright. And then I would put money aside for my kids so that when they turned 18 they would have enough money to never worry and generations to come would be set up for success. The first “material” thing i would buy after those things are taken care of would be a brand new cadillac escalade with all the bells and whistles. I always wanted one. Im a big dude and big dudes should ride big bodies.

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

Just with anything, practice makes perfect. Masters are made when when time and effort is put in. It takes patience and consistency. Treat your craft with love and respect and it will treat you the same back. Most importantly we as artists are very powerful, our words and music hold extreme power. So be conscious of what you are putting out into this world. Also always stay true to you but be able to adapt the best way that you can. No music made is a mistake because there is no one like you and if you don’t create the music then it would not be heard.

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

When it comes to song writing sometimes simplicity is needed. Don’t over think the process that’s when we get writers block. Almost like giving the situation to much attention before its even made. Write where you are comfortable, write where you are inspired, go into nature, or into your car or go for a walk and brainstorm. When it comes to recording there is beauty in imperfection. Sometimes we try to be so perfect with vocals that we forget that we are human. Now im not saying be sloppy with songs and not be on point. What i am saying is dont be afraid to be a little rough around the edges when it comes to some things. Another huge thing is how many vocals you record. 90% or artists layer the vocals so much that it masks imperfections or makes it sound very muddy. Practice laying 1 main vocal, it will help you gain confidence in your flow and sound but also make you sharp.

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?

This is another great question. To be completely honest family and friends havent been supportive since the beginning. EXCEPT for a select few on both sides. I can count on one hand who really been there since day one. I have so much for those people for never doubting me. One of the biggest issues when it comes to this specific area is the sharing and showing up for shows. Most friends and family will not share or show up to a show. It will be complete strangers who really rock with you and support you. When you blow up or make a name for yourself thats when the friends and family who didnt pay no mind to you will come out of the wood work and be like “I always knew you would be big or I always supported you, etc” when in all actuality that wasnt the case. I dont feel any type of way about it though because i will always still move forward regardless. But they dont realize that if they would really share you like they share and support the mainstreet artist we could and would be alot farther ahead than we currently are. Teamwork makes the dream work.

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

In all honesty i would want to be the headliner and have my own openers! In due time right? But until that time comes, i would love to rock a stage with Adam Calhoun, Struggle Jennings and JellyRoll, Big SMO, Ryan Upchurch. That would be one heck of a combination. The vibes and energy that this show would bring would be insane. I love all of the music i hear from them and each one of us is unique and incredible.

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

I would have to say Tupac. I have so many questions. When you put creative people together in one room in a one on one setting, knowledge plays a huge key. We learn from one another all while being the stars that we are. Pac influences me to this day on how powerful his music is to the consumer. It would be awesome to spend some time with him and get to know him as a person. And I would be curious of the type of food he would get. Is it simple or is it complicated. Maybe someday he will let a country boy like me sit at the table in thugs mansion.

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 have to say the most enjoyable part of it would be conversing with Ryan. He is super down to earth, strait up with you and has that industry mind that is essential for artist growth. Outside of that I have had great success with LiquidSound, and I look forward to more growth and seeing where we can take this. For the new artists I would say trust the process and remember consistency is key here and LiquidSound can help you stay consistent. Its hard to juggle everything independently, Let LiquidSound help you.

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

I hope to be somewhere tropical preforming hit after hit, networking with industry giants molding myself into the next industry giant. Longevity is key. Make a career out of something that you love. That’s the goal. I want to touch stages and air waves all around the world. In the next 10 years that is so doable. Just have to stay focused.

Artist Spotlight: DaꓘK Da Maven

DaꓘK Da Maven

 

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

 

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

Well I’m from partially rural America, so since its a small town everyone knows everyone. Music was always considered a hobby and not a career. Everything is a struggle here. From building a market to finding someone to listen to it, most think its a joke and tell you to get a real job. In that regard though, it builds character along with perseverance. To make it out of Arkansas and put Rogers on the map for music is what made me the artist I am today.

 

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

This is a harder question for me to answer so simply. I like and listen to a lot of different genres. Each of them add to my inspiration. If I could choose one it would be Lupe Fiasco. He is the definition of an artist in every way. From simple similes to overly complicated metaphors, relatable stories to history lessons . He encompasses hip hop as a genre and as a pure art. Also shows that evolution in art is needed.

 

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

A house with a studio fully built into it. Along with my little list of things like cars and equipment. I’d definitely want a permanent place for me to be able to work from without worries. The house would have enough rooms for the crew to come through and record professionally as my record studio would be ran out of it.

 

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

Always learn. Don’t ever think you know it all. Music is ever changing. It slows and stops for no one. The second you believe you know it all, it will change and you usually fall. Now, I’m not saying to delete your ego but be reasonable with everything. That’s why you learn and adapt.

 

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

Only two tips honestly. First, be moderate with yourself. you are your worst critic. write the song then proofread and edit. Remember perfect doesn’t exist.
Second, practice and remember there are multiple edits it will go through in the process. it can sound rough at first then get mixed and mastered and be absolutely amazing.

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 didn’t like it until they saw the progress. My dad backed me, along with my grandma but passed that it didn’t make money so it didn’t matter. I was blacksheeped for the longest . I still don’t know some of the family on my dad’s side because we were basically too poor for them. My friends on the other hand support me. I rap with my friends though. that makes them biased to me in a way.

 

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

Honestly, Lupe fiasco Or Kendrick Lamar . They have the best fans. If you’re lyrical they bump it. if you’re crazy on just swag they bump it. its art but they also appreciate the show as well. They don’t deal with artists being boring . you have to encompass the art otherwise you won’t make it .

 

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

Roger Miller would be the guy. I know he is country but he wrote most of all the old country that is revered today. he was also catchy and could freestyle country off the top and be good at it. He was a master of vibe. along with inspiring everyone of his day.

 

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 ability to talk to someone who offers solutions to problems. Most management I’ve dealt with just causes issues for the artist. They also don’t have any interest in the artist and just want as much money as possible from it all. With Liquidsound Records. There is a level of care that is nice to see. When issues arise or questions pop up, it’s not hard to get answers or solutions. most of the time they are already sent to you in the daily messages. As far as advice , Use everything if you can. Or Atleast try to apply it in someway.

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

Running my studio along with selling out shows. along with performing i might add. making new fans and experiencing New areas is the best part. along with helping people get through their daily lives.

Artist Spotlight: K-Note ThaGod

K-Note ThaGod

 

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

 

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

Really, my hometown is not very supportive of local music. All other artists do here is tear each other down. I feel like if we would all work together, someone may actually make it out and make it big. But even with all the negativity, it really just makes me want to go harder.

 

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

I’ve got a wide variety of music tastes. But if I had to single out an artist or band, I’d have to say Hopsin in hip hop. That’s when I started making my own beats etc, and Lorna Shore as a band, due to their wide vocal ranges, melodies, etc.

 

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

If I won the lottery, I would invest in a business. Probably a restaurant. Because when everything else starts to fall off, people will always have to eat.

 

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

The best advice I could give for fellow musicians, is to keep at it. No matter how bad things get, keep working and mastering your craft. Once you decide to quit or slow down, there is always going to be another artist ready to step in and fulfill your place.

 

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

When I write songs, I always sit down with a dictionary, and thesaurus, I like to know the meaning of every word I’m trying to use. And you can find words that fit better than the one you were originally trying to use. But that’s about 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 and friends are supportive to an extent. But when it comes to ACTUALLY supporting, buying merchandise, tickets, etc. It’s like tryna pull teeth.

 

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

I’ve opened for a lot of famous artists already, Montana of 300, Boondocks, ICP, Twisted, Twisted Insane, LSP, Jarren Benton, Jellyroll, I could go on and on. But one I would like to open for, that I haven’t, I’d probably have to say Millyz or Hopsin.

 

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 with one musician who is no longer alive, it would be a toss up between Bob Marley and Kurt Cobain. Both of them influenced me heavily in my younger days and teenage years. I still bump their music constantly.

 

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?

In my time with LSR, what I have enjoyed the most about the whole experience, is the professionalism, and the consistency in content and communication.

 

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

It’s hard to say where I see my music career in 10 years, I try not to worry too much about the future, and to just focus on the present. I’ve already hit many milestones, so I guess it’s time to make some more.

Artist Spotlight: Reflection

Reflection

Today, we sat down with our artist Reflection 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 was always a moving concept because I was always moving each place though was a piece of my puzzle in Yreka, California was where I became aware of loss because the things I gained where always short lived ether be people or things but in various towns in Montana is where I would come to understand why those losses where happening things would come and go so much it was hard to keep track of my stuff and theirs my stuff being the stuff on my back and theirs being what I had till someone took it away such as home and family.

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

Even still I found influential people to be inspired by such as 50 cent, tupac and twizted when I was feeling beaten and week pac taught me how to survive 50 taught how to thrive and twizted well they taught me it was ok not to be ok win or lose I always wanted my music to reach out in that same way to speak at the same volumes to make pain seem like a tool not a short fall in the way sometime my influence by artists was as good as asking family for advice because music was and is my family.

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

If I were to win the lottery I suppose I’d try and create a platform where I was living not just surviving something to take away the temptation to look back standing alone and standing strong would be paid off indefinitely because theres no guarantee anything we do in our moments of strength and perseverance will ever pay off other than just another day to do it again.

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

If I were to give advice to someone in my shoes I suppose I’d say maintain the best you can as cheesy as it sounds but what else you gonna do when giving up isn’t an option there is no easy way to say just do this or just do that we just do what we can I guess other than that I would say budget and pay attention nobody is gonna do it for you from my experience this is all mostly business and some music but if you love it actually you’ll figure out how to do both well.

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

When I write music I try and keep track of when I’m writing from my heart and when I’m writing from my head the too are very important for different outcomes and messages when it’s from the heart I go slower because its important not to stumble and to not sounds fake when it’s from the head I suggest you use your head don’t just say things just cause they rhyme words speak to people whether from the heart or from the head I know writing from the heart sounds romantic and strong but it’s not the only place that can say something impactful and important.

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 friends have always been my family and in general they support me they way they understand to sometimes its saying I did great some say they would do different but most of the time its patience for the outcome which can mean a lot when you feel like nothing is happening for you it helps to be reminded that it’ll be ok and to just breathe my family has for the most part just allowed music to be in our lives everyday as a way to communicate so when they hear me I think they understand it’s my love for the craft that pushes me and they don’t have to say much else.

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

If I was able to open for someone it would be twizted because I’ve been a juggalo for years and the fan base is family and while I don’t identify as a juggalo rapper I do identify as a rapper who is a juggalo the love and friendship within that community is outstanding and unlike any other fan group I’ve seen twizted on top of that has saved my life more times than I could count so it would just be an honor to be a part of any show they did hands down they are my favorite rap group by far.

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

If I was able to have dinner with any past artist who was no longer with us it would be pac hands down pac was a teacher and a leader and I would love to hear what he had to say about pretty much anything I’d ask him he was a life changing force in the world not just for me but for millions life only gives you so many people like pac and you don’t just let that go if I could do half of what pac did for the world I would feel completely satisfied in my career he was and is a legend that deserves as much respect and admiration one could give rest in peace most definitely.

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 being a part of LiquidSound for many reasons first and foremost it has help me stay afloat in a music world that sometimes seems fleeting to me especially with my personal hardships I’ve had to deal with as of late so much appreciated for that aspect also I feel like there is a lot of hard work put into me and I can see a measure it in the weeks that have past it is definitely an eye opener when life is breathed into a dream like this I have gotten further in music with the short few months I’ve been on the roster then ever before so I definitely appreciate everything they do for me.

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

In ten years I just hope to be in a place where music in my main income and my main passion doing what I love for a living is my dream in ten years I hope to have done so much and be able to show all the hard work I’ve done and be able to measure the road I’ve walked in miles of successes a lot can happen in one year let alone ten so I have hope for that future and I have hope for my career I wanna keep at it till I’m satisfied then keep going and with any luck make something of myself along the way.

Artist Spotlight: HTX_Z

HTX_Z

Today, we sat down with our artist HTX_Z 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 didn’t shape me into making music. Most of my inspiration came from other cities and artist within them. In many cases people believe I’m from the Midwest when I’m actually from the south. I have a lot of favorites from that region and the east coast as well.

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

The artist that has me doing what I wish to achieve right now is Kanye West. When he started out, he seem like a kid that was fresh out of school or college. I saw myself as that type of person, whenever I got older. He has his hands on a lot of things now when it comes to songwriting, making beats and so. I want him to take it to the next level though like Jay-Z who is also another influencer of mine. I want to have my palm on some executive stuff like film, companies and estates. The business mentality is what I’m looking forward too.

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

If I ever won the lottery, I wouldn’t do anything with it except invest in stock.

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

One thing I would tell other artist of my stature, is never let people distract you from what you’re trying to obtain. If you plan strive for success, go for it. Family will be supportive no matter what, friends come and go. But you as the artist need to stay on the ball.

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

No.

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 don’t have the best support within my own home, but outside, it’s splendid. Sometimes I’m just walking into a store a people notice me and point me out. It’s crazy, they be asking for signatures and shows and much more. These are moments I can definitely say that I cherish.

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

It honestly doesn’t matter to me. I’m just enjoying the moment with the artist, the crowd, and family as well.

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

From a business and mentor perspective, HOV. He’s the guy that’s going to tell it to you straight. He tells it to you in the music and so much more. Why not take the chance to listen to him and hear his advice. That’s a type of investment that should be acknowledge, and it will pay off in the long run.

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?

So far with this agency, my time hasn’t been as extensive compared to some others, but the interaction with the team is A1. I have work that I’m stacked on, and they help out as much as possible every time. If any artist decides to come along, the experience is worthwhile.

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

In ten years, I plan to be on the status of Grammy awarded, nominee, and an educator of the industry.

Artist Spotlight: FireWater

Firewater

Today, we sat down with our artist FireWater 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 in Decatur, IL showed me that i was different from other individuals both musically and mentally. At the age of 13 after the death of my mother, I started to hear music differently. After awhile i started to hear my thoughts inside of the beat, so i started to write them down as poems. then one day i found out that one of my older cousins and his homeboy were in a rap group by the name of TOTAL CHAOS. I used to watch them then in my head would freestyle along with them. Then one day I found myself inside of a make shift recording studio, while I was there I started fitting my poems to random beats and while doing so found that it was quite therapeutic it was. I have been recording music ever since.

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

Tupac Shakur, because he showed me how not to give a fuck about the consequences for being truthful. Also, he taught me how not to give a fuck as an artist. One that I heard from Pac, that always stuck with me believe it or not was a lyric that he spit on his best album in my opinion, Makaveli (the 7 day theory). The bar was “It’s not about east or west. It’s about niggaz and bitches, power and money, riders and punks. Which side are you on.

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

If I won the lottery tomorrow, the first thing that I would buy would be upgrades to my recording studio.

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

The only advice that I have to offer is to make sure that this is what you want to do before you head down this path. Once you start, it’s a one way street that at times it does get lonely, and a lot of time gets spent being misunderstood. On the other hand, if you are one of the lucky ones passion that’s gets misunderstood becomes a tool to help the people that get misunderstood. That feeling is unexplainable.

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

Actually I do, if you don’t feel it, don’t drop it. If you don’t buy it as the seller, they won’t either.

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?

At this point, they all just have come to terms with the fact that this is who I am. They realize how making music makes me feel as not only an artist, but as a person. Basically as long as it don’t interfere with business they don’t have a personal opinion about it. Plus, they know that I make dope music.

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

Anybody that let me get my point across honestly, I don’t feel like I”m an opening act kind of talent. I would coexist with anybody. 

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

Same answer as the 2nd question hands down (2pac). It would be an honor to be able to pick his brain and get some insight on his life as an outlaw. Plus, I would like to used that time to thank him for unknowingly motivating me to ask questions and find out things for myself, rather than just taking somebody’s word for it.

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 haven’t been with them long enough to honestly answer that, but what I will say is that I respect everything that they are doing with and for artist. Any advice that I would have to future artist considering joining the roster would be to just keep it 100 with your intentions and that’ll limit miscommunications.

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

In 10 years, I see my career will have become a self propelled machine in itself. By the point in my career, I will have hoped to have influenced others to ” talk they shit.” Also to be at a point where whatever I say will help anyone that needs it.

Artist Spotlight: VCK SODAH

VCK SODAH

Today, we sat down with our artist VCK SODAH 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 is a rough area with all the gang activities. I’ve grown to become strong.

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

THREE.6.MAFIA because their beats have a ton of motivation and meaning behind it. The message I received was to keep it legit with your peers.

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

Mouth grille, body guard, and in-home studio.

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

Hear my thoughts. Can you imagine how I feel hahaha it’s just new horror sounds.

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

Yes. I have a few secrets about writing, but I can’t share that information. As far as any recording tips – ‘try not to stop talking in the middle of saying your verses & don’t take breaks, Get them records right.’

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 people’s love my music and my close friends thinks it’s actually good. I get my fair share of support!

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

Travis Scott, because he is the top dog in the game. I support his music.

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

Lord Infamous, because he is the creator of CRUNK ”my favorite musician”.

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?

Facts! I get live help from music experts to accelerate my career.

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

On stage or on a tour bus writing 1# hits.

Artist Spotlight: Justin Case

Justin Case

Today, we sat down with our artist Justin Case 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 has helped shape me as a musician today because of the diversity I endured and the struggles of being a white boy growing up in predominantly African American schools.

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

It wasn’t one band or artist it was 2. Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg. When I was younger, I heard them growing up listening to Led Zeppelin and the Beatles then all of sudden I hear Ain’t nuthin but a g thang I was hooked my world had changed.

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

If I won the lottery, I would buy a house for my family.

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

Never ever listen to haters, stay on your grind, keep going, never give up on your dream.

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

Yes, if it feels right, put it down on paper, then start building til you create something special.

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?

Well being my age and a real grandfather, not a lot of support but I defy the odds. There’s only one Justin Case Rapping Grandpa so why be normal its boring.

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

Kevin Gates or Travis Scott or Lil Wayne or Drake

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

Man, if I could have dinner with Eazy E or Tupac or Biggie, those were the creators and the beginning it would be like meeting Hugh Hefner at his mansion and women everywhere and you have never been laid.

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?

In my time with LiquidSound, I have enjoyed the creativity and guidance and mentorship to help me grow as an artist, and would recommend this to anyone in the struggle this is building and growing.

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

In ten years, I hope to be heard in 80 percent of the world and as big as Biggie Smalls, Big Pun, Tupac, Dr Dre, Snoop, and more.