Q. Good day, L1FEL1NE! We appreciate you taking the time to speak with us. The first thing we want to know is How did you get into making music?
A. Music became my fallback plan after pursuing football as the primary dream. Unexpectedly, I became a father in high school, prompting the need for a quicker degree. I made the bold decision to drop out, earned my GED with high honors within a week, and entered college a semester ahead of my peers. While I always had a knack for rapping, I never considered taking it seriously until my friend Prince Jay brought me to his studio. That experience ignited a passion in me, and I immersed myself in every aspect of the industry. From free-styling in my earlier days, I evolved into a sponge for knowledge about the music world. Surprisingly, I found myself handling tasks like mixing and mastering, creating the exact sound I had envisioned. This year marked the culmination of my journey, where everything fell into place.
Q. Who are your musical influences and why?
A. My musical influences are diverse, thanks to my parents who exposed me to contrasting worlds. My dad introduced me to Dr. Dre and Pac, shaping my love for hip-hop, while my mom shared artists like Erykah Badu, Bone Thugs, and various talents beyond hip-hop. This eclectic mix, including Linkin Park, has profoundly influenced and inspired my musical journey. In fact, Linkin Park’s “Hybrid Theory” was the first CD I purchased with my own money, and I still regard it, along with The Chronic 2001, as two of the best albums ever made.
Q. What has been your biggest career highlight so far?
A. A significant career milestone for me was being recognized as one of the three Young Mogels by Under-views. This acknowledgment, predating my rebrand, meant a lot as it highlighted not just my music but also my efforts in building a brand and contributing to the music community. It was a gratifying moment to be acknowledged for the broader impact of my work.
Q. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A. In five years, I envision being omnipresent and enjoying the freedom that comes with success. The behind-the-scenes effort in the music industry is often underestimated. My goal is to achieve success without tying it to a specific location. While remaining present in the moment, I'm constantly working towards substantial achievements, prioritizing personal growth, my unique path, and financial stability over fame.
Q. What Is One Message You Have for Your Fans and Supporters?
A. My message to supporters and fans is simple: extend the same support to your friends and peers as you do to big artists. It's incredible to witness someone's journey from the bottom to the top, and supporting each other costs nothing. That's the ethos behind my collective of artists called SupportArt. Wholeheartedly back your people, because you never know when it might be their last project or the one before they take off. Genuine support matters, and if someone can't stand by you during the grind, you can't trust their support when you succeed. Spread love authentically, and it will naturally come full circle.
