#WHM PROFILE : KENYADA NIKILE
A staple songstress and rising star amongst Buffalo's growing r&b scene, Kenyada Nikile is claiming her space as a deeply soulful act that can shift from classic 90's r&b to more experimental sounds that integrate strong alternative and hip-hop elements. Her powerhouse of a voice, which we've most recently witnessed both live and in-recording, shares gut-wrenching pulls of sharp croons, distinguished storytelling, and feel-good melodies. With all the makings to be a great r&b act in 2022, and a super enjoyable recent project titled Therapy already making its rounds, Kenyada Nikile is on her way. Check out her brief answers to our questions in honor of #WomensHistoryMonth!
Sneakvibing: Who is your biggest inspiration?
Kenyada Nikile: “My biggest inspirations are my children!"
SV: How would you describe your music?
KN: “I would describe my music as gospel, hip-hop, r&b! I call it Bluesy!"
SV: What is your favorite song on your most recent project?
KN: "My favorite song - that’s a tough one! "Remember" - "YADA YADA" - "Breathe" - "Life is what you make it!"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJqQM1jwV2Q
FOLLOW KENYADA NIKILE on ALL SOCIALS!
Instagram: https://instagram.com/kenyada_nikile?utm_medium=copy_link
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxwfQewk7K0buMIdTEyx4RQ/videos
Check out KENYADA NIKILE on the #BUFFACOLD2022 Playlist!
#WHM PROFILE: GRACE GREENAN
Grace Greenan's delicate, sometimes somber voice is one that is breaking boundaries. Performing and collaborating with a range of artists in various genres from pop, edm, to new age hip-hop, the rising singer-songwriter is adding refreshing dimensions to her indie sound. With Greenan's genre-bending approach to almost all of her music, we're looking forward to discovering her more and seeing her progression. Take a listen to her 2021 effort, Eden! We briefly spoke to her in honor of #WomensHistoryMonth about her inspirations.
Sneakvibing: Who is your biggest inspiration?
Grace Greenan: “My biggest inspiration in the industry at the moment is Billie Eilish. Her art not only acknowledges environmental issues and the presence of sexism in the industry, but makes all people feel welcomed, loved, and included.
SV: How would you describe your music?
GG: “I’d describe my music as alternative pop, but I like to refer to it as “sad girl music” because it has always been my way of escaping my own struggles with mental health."
SV: What is your favorite song on your most recent project?
GG: “My favorite song from my most recent project 'Eden' is Sticks and Stones, which outlines my personal experience with anxiety and depression."
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FOLLOW GRACE GREENAN on ALL SOCIALS!
Instagram: https://instagram.com/gracegreenan?utm_medium=copy_link
Check out GRACE GREENAN on the #BUFFACOLD2022 Playlist!
#WHM PROFILE: JAZZIE JAY
An energetic spitter amplifying her own style and sound, rapper Jazzie Jay's high-octane music is on our radar. Mixing street tales with intriguing POVs, the young emcee, has been collaborating with rising, young artists like 14 Mafia, Audi3k, and Waniebop just to name a few. With her recent project The Hoodrat Playlist, making its rounds, we're looking forward to hearing was she's doing next. We briefly spoke to her in honor of #WomensHistoryMonth about her inspirations.
Sneakvibing: Who is your biggest inspiration?
Jazzie Jay: “My biggest inspiration musically would have to be Beyoncé, I’ve always admired her work ethic, creativity & talent she is the queen!”
SV: How would you describe your music?
JJ: “I would like to describe my music as real n**** music - no matter what subject, what beat, what topic, I like to always remain myself and be the most-raw hardcore emcee."
SV: What is your favorite song on your most recent project?
JJ: “My favorite song that’s out right now would have to be 'No Letting Up Part 1' on The Hoodrat Playlist which you all should definitely check out all bops all vibes."
#WHM PROFILE: EMREIGN
Emreign's slow-simmering music is subtle but still packs a punch. Mixing vibey moods with elements of hip-hop and alternative sounds, the lowkey songstress's music is a style were excited to tap in with! Give her album Diaries a listen. We briefly spoke to her in honor of #WomensHistoryMonth, read below.
Sneakvibing: Who is your biggest inspiration?
EMREIGN: “Mac Miller."
SV: How would you describe your music?
ER: “I'd describe my music as free of regulation. It's somewhat euphoric/atmospheric, & full of sounds/harmonies that create emotion. The goal is to produce something captivating that I've yet to hear. It has a powerful, but still, relaxed sound so it's really easy to connect with or just chill to."
SV: What is your favorite song on your most recent project?
ER: “Alone time."
FOLLOW EMREIGN on ALL SOCIALS!
Instagram: https://instagram.com/dabaddestguy?utm_medium=copy_link
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyjuGTIIx5iZFjLmkdmodcA
Check out EMREIGN on the #BUFFACOLD2022 Playlist!
#BUFFACOLD: JULES YJ$ CELEBRATES TRANS-VISIBILITY DAY
Jules YJ$ is empowered by Buffalo hip-hop. Whether he’s modeling for Hoolyboi, collaborating with on-the-rise artists like 3lie, or supporting notable acts like Money Set, Spacebound, or Freak The Miighty, the 20-year-old artist is involved. With a strong identity aligned with hip-hop music, Jules is also looking to strengthen his identity as a trans-man in this space. With today, March 31st being Trans Visibility Day, it’s important to recognize how important trans voices are a part of our world and how we might overlook their significance and contributions to our communities.
“I just want to tell the world I'm trans because I want to be an example for nonbinary and trans artists,” Jules explained.
Staple rappers Hoolyboi & KPi$tol recently released single "Lobster & Steak" earlier this month. Jules is a major fan of Hoolyboi and modeled for his new clothing line.
On the cusp of adulthood and beginning to dive deeper into his artistry, this is a significant moment for Jules. Building his confidence by celebrating the holiday every year since 2017, the young artist understands the importance of representation. It was during watching the TLC series about a transgender teenager I Am Jazz, that Jules could put vocabulary to how he felt as a person.
“I related so much to being born in the wrong body and feeling disconnected from myself. I did not feel like a woman at all,” Jules recalled.
Interestingly enough, around the same time Jules began to identify as a transgender person, he also found Buffalo hip-hop. His discovery started with AP YCM and Dripstarr (formerly known as Kid Kev). Then it progressed to following more local artists like King Loot, Kid Sparxx, and Way2WavyBaby- Now an all-around fan to a plethora of artists in the town, Jules is a major supporter who consistently shows love to the hip-hop community. Also, experiencing the grandeur of the SoundCloud era and discovering many Buffalo gems at the same time inspired Jules to pursue music as well.
Alternative Hip-Hop artist AP YCM released his highly anticipated project in late 2021. AP is another major influence on Jules music taste.
First spitting on a 21-Savage sample to dropping his first EP last summer titled Take Two and most recently releasing his single “5 am in Buffalo,” Jules is finding his footing as a trans-hip-hop artist who is also on the spectrum. Understanding how unique his position is as an autistic, trans rapper and producer, Jules wants to be visible and this time it’ll be a celebration.
“For the past 4 years, I’ve kept it on the low…It’s hard for me to come out again but this time I'm making poster boards, I’m taking pictures of myself, and re-coming out again so people know. I'm a trans man…I'm not gonna hide myself anymore to satisfy others,” concluded Jules.
From left to right: Jules modeling for rapper Hoolyboi, hanging out with rapper Zaywop, and sporting hip-hop collective Goodneighbor's new clothing line.
As we mentioned earlier, Jules has been a fan of Buffalo Hip-Hop since 2016, With that said, we asked him to gather his top ten favorite songs from local artists! Check it out below!
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5aAc2kI163Y4W1hsLFG46M?si=s2Wk2Uc_T0q0X7kb2FOGRQ
FOLLOW JULES YJ$ on ALL SOCIALS!
Instagram: https://instagram.com/julesxpri?utm_medium=copy_link
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wu9ZF33y-r4
Check out JULES YJ$ on the #BUFFACOLD2022 Playlist!
#NEWVIBES: GAINE$ & SKOOB RUN LYRICAL EXERCISE ON "BARS & BREWS"
Fully produced by rising rapper/producer Wizzle, lyricists Gaine$ and Skoob joins forces on the energetic 6-track EP Bars & Brews. Building anticipation for the project's official release later this month, the artists' gave us a first listen. Here's what we think.
Gaine$, Skoob, and Wizzle join forces for Music Visual to "Bomb Threat" & "Follow Me." Filmed by Sky Dweller. Local Artists, Genecist, Iyam, La Reiz, and other artists make cameos as well in the visual.
1.This Is Enjoyable Lyrical Exercise
Both Gaine$ and Skoob never disappoint when it comes to lyrical agility and style. Between Gaine$ swanky, reserved flow and Skoob's colorful wordplay, we find the master wordsmiths' playing off of each other really well, while still embracing their lyrical identities. Standout tracks like "Follow Me" and "Bomb Threat" ( which they also made a visual for) are simmering streams of braggadocio, and rightfully so. Touching on liquid courage to street runs on "Bomb Threat" to more introspective and trance-like songwriting on "Follow Me" - filled with pockets of cautionary tales and teeming confidence, this duo makes great artistic choices.
2. Wizzle's Production Is Solid
Whether it's blazing trumpets, sharp bell rings, or soulful melodies, Wizzle's production always finds a nice pocket. The balance he finds in measuring the fullness and minimalism of a beat is most evident in "Shinobi" - despite the slim percussion, and spacey piano keys, it's just enough to give richness to the song. "You & Me" is also an impressive track especially for its production. The tinges of hyper-pop elements and R&B sounds make the song feel timeless. Wizzle is very solid, but we're also looking forward to seeing his progression in beat-making.
3. This Is A Vibe Setting Project
The underlying playfulness of this EP is what we vibe to the most. Between Skoob's expressive adlibs, Wizzle's sly samples, and Gaine$'s melodic hooks, you can tell this project was built with strong chemistry. There's a comfort and confidence that is apparent because of this collaboration. With that said, it is the perfect soundtrack for a party, a longer-than-usual car ride, or background music at home. A vibe setter for sure.
Take A Listen to Bars & Brews on all streaming platforms 4/20/22!
Follow Our IG To Stay Up To Date With Theses Artists/ @Sneakvibingblog
#BUFFACOLD: G Premacy is leveling up with latest album drop “The Transition"
From the first track (which features Dave East) to the last, G Prem’s latest album, The Transition consistently conveys themes of fortitude, patience, and growing pains:
“Transition applies to anything you want it to/ The key is to remain fluid and unafraid of change/ Achieving your goals is easy once your thoughts are rearranged.”
Credit: TheIndievisuals.com
“I enjoyed making the album’s title track the most because it was the first project that I ever had a mainstream artist be a part of,” said G Premacy.
Although it’s the first song, the album’s title track was one of the last to be written, and it acts as an update to listeners on what G has been up to for the last three years.
The Transition has been in the works since before the pandemic, and it was nearly finished right around the time the world shut down in March of 2020. “I was coming off a really strong 2019 run commercially,” said G who was signed by Roc Nation’s independent distribution branch which ultimately ended up falling through around the same time. “We parted ways, took that momentum to do our own thing and put out the G.O.A.T. video,”which received close to 50,000 views on YouTube.
Watch G Premacy ft. TW1TCH – G.O.A.T. (Official Video)
G Prem first announced The Transition in an interview with Lord Sear at Sirius XM's SHADE45 in Feb. 2020. But the momentum came to a screeching halt when COVID hit.
Adapting to the new normal, G and his team continued working and reshaping the new album, The Transition, until the world began to open up so they could properly release this extensive work of art he worked so long and hard on, integrating themes of the pandemic into the album.
“There were pros and cons to the situation but you have to see the positive,” G said. “I took this opportunity as I’m transitioning to commercial for a little bit of a re-brand to give myself more of an edge to my delivery and my message – a little more direct than how I was doing things in the past.”
The Transition by G Premacy
The Transition’s album art is a motif of the central themes throughout the album’s songs, particularly the isolation of the pandemic as well as the loneliness that comes with the perseverance, integrity, and determination to keep climbing to the top – in G’s case: the top of the hip-hop music industry.
On one side of the steps there are high-rise buildings and bright skies as a representation of wealth and success, juxtaposed by humble buildings that represent poverty. G is the figure climbing the stairs in the middle of poverty and wealth.
“Nobody can walk your path with you,” said G of the album art and what it represents. “Those stairs were only set for me, so I’m the one walking those stairs.”
The transition that the album is named after is “a triple entendre” said G. The first layer, and the most apparent, is a nod to the two-sided album. The transition from A- to B-side of the album signifies G’s transition from being an underground artist to his current elevated status.
“As you listen, the album transitions from a more standard Buffalo sound (gritty and dark production) into a more polished, clean, commercial sound.”
The album’s title pays a second homage to G’s transition from the underground hip-hop world to the commercial hip-hop industry, as told and enhanced by the album’s three skits. The first skit is a reference to G’s stint as a car salesman who, in his spare time, would ravenously search for upcoming music festivals and other performance and network opportunities.
“I had the vision in mind, but I didn’t have the steps laid out until this point,” said G. "I didn’t know this type of feeling really existed three or four years ago.”
The other two skits signify G’s business savvy and entrepreneurial mindset that helped him make that transition into the commercial hip-hop industry.
“More people are listening because it almost demands your attention. Hip-Hop is a competitive sport; you have to stand on your own and you have to have that confidence and energy of being the best rapper in Buffalo.”
The Transition also represents the comparison between the album’s sound and today’s hip-hop music.
“In comparison to today’s music, it’s a more aggressive tone and very direct and not necessarily melodic. But it’s meant to be a piece of work that people can grasp something from and relate back to their own lives,” said G, who hopes the album inspires listeners to improve for the better.
In other words, not only does his album include amazing cadences, impressive deliveries and flow changes, but listeners can count on G to provide substantial content as well.
"The Transition" produced by Beats Anonymous is the title track off G Premacy's latest album.
“I try to use my gift to help whoever I can because me helping other people doesn’t take away from what I’m doing. I finally got to a place of peace and internal confidence, that not much can bother me. That’s what I try to get through to everybody,” G added. “Hopefully they understand it this way. If they don’t understand it this way, I hope they understand it the next time I say it a different way.”
One of the other ways G Premacy plans to use his gift to help others through an informational seminar for other local artists so that he can share what he knows about the industry. The seminar will be held on the anniversary of The Transition release, May 21st from 5-8PM at Milkie’s on Elmwood.
G will also be performing a new project release at Milkie’s July 2nd from 8-12PM. Both events are 21+ per venue requirements.
FOLLOW G PREMACY on ALL SOCIALS:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GPremacy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/G_premacy/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/GPremacy
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/G%20Premacy
Check out G Premacy on the #BUFFACOLD2022 Playlist
#BUFFACOLD: KING TRAV JOINED GAINE$ ON "FUNNY FACES" SINGLE
King Trav's impressive work last year showed him in a different light. A concrete bar lyricist that floats under the radar, Trav's 2021 projects The Thesis and The Summer's Over, amplified the rhymer's versatility as not only a wordsmith, but an artist. The poetic feel and textured productions on The Thesis felt surreal, but oh so satisfying - listen to "Free Lunch," "Breathe," and "Fish on The Line." Then with The Summer's Over the gritty rapper took more experimental approaches and delicately integrated his trademark style - Listen to "Dangerous," "Bloodsport," and "Truffle Fries." With that said, Gaine$ slow-simmering, lyrical braggadocio on "Funny Faces" puts King Trav fully in his element.
King Trav The Thesis Teaser
If you don't know by now, Gaine$ raps like a Don, and King Trav is on the same frequency. Spitting over an oozy, hymnal swoon by producer/rapper Flexxbabyy, Gaine$ talks about his endurance, hustle, and credibility as a rhymer.
Gaine$ ft. King Trav - Funny Faces
"My N**** I came from up under the fire, address me as sire/ slow up your vitals/ I'm on Shopify, Spotify, boy you know I'm on Tidal/ Get this paper from everywhere. I'm just playing the Iso/ I'm better now. I survived on noodles and chicken rice bowls."
Touching on his struggles while also flexing his muscles, Gaine$ ushers in King Trav's extra quaint flow.
"Hell is hot. I walked flames and never changed/ They be sayin' its love but it don't feel the same/ What you 'sposed to do when the joy turns into pain/ It's like I'm dancing in the rain/ I been praying for better days/ Letters from the court back to back got me stressed out/ I do my drop-off, smoke some weed and poke my chest out."
From societal woes to cocky wordplay Gaine$ and King Trav do not disappoint with their lyrical banter. You can listen to the full single here.
FOLLOW THESE ARTISTS ON ALL SOCIALS:
Instagram: https://instagram.com/gaines90?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
https://instagram.com/fingertribe?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
https://instagram.com/flexxbabyy_?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
Youtube: https://youtu.be/sefa63xzb3E
Check out GAINE$ & KING TRAV on the #BUFFACOLD2022 Playlist!
#BUFFACOLD: LME ARE UNDERCOVER SUPERSTARS
I first spoke with rapper K.ROB around this time last year. The LME collective spearhead and creator had just finished his impressive series of solo album releases with projects Everyone's Enuhmee, Duh Ones Who Play..., and Buhtween Us in 2020 and was tightening up his roster of artists. With talent spanning multiple states, K.ROB was preparing himself and his artists to debut new music throughout the Spring of 2021 into 2022. And they did just that.
Kicking it off with a group visual from the collectives' 2020 single "Runnitback," featuring Kami.Torah, Spadeo Nation, and JayWorld, K.ROB ushered in a dynamic rollout. James Wynn released his energetic single "I Know" in May of 2021, A fresh-faced Brian Gonsr dropped an EP with avid collaborator Joshiii titled Picture Day 2 in late July, Spadeo Nation offered up a fiery single titled "Natural Select" in September, and both K.ROB and Joh.E released singles in February 2022. Despite their hefty rollouts and significant collaborations - LME interestingly floats under the radar, partly with intention. But why?
As the heartbeat of LME, K.ROB is finding balance in time. Establishing a strong foundation and presence in Buffalo during the earlier part of his career, the LME leader is pacing himself and his team because, in all honesty, they could strike gold at any time.
“I want a mystique around K.ROB…I feel like some artists make the mistake of making themselves too accessible and I know it’s early for me, so I still wanna give people enough of me, but I don’t wanna give them too much," the artist shared.
K.ROB is all about strategy and in many ways had a headstart. Born in Maryland, but raised mostly in Buffalo, a product of the city's Performing Arts High School, and deeply inspired by his mother (Known as Asia Star), who's been rapping for years, the rising lyricist's approach is molded by experience and observation.
Entering Buffalo's Hip-Hop scene in 2014, K.ROB's participation in the music community solidified swiftly. Recalling his first show, with close friend and fellow artist Spadeo Nation - the young lyricist performed at Ujima Theatre among some now musical heavyweights like Ponzo Houdini, Ballistic Man, and Sxreammvker to name a few. Quickly forming close relationships with longtime artists in the Queen City, K.ROB gives nods to early supporters and collaborators like Richslave, Ghaf, Chill Ali, and Mile High.
But it was his 2018 effort Duhmmy that gave him that citywide stamp of approval. The 9-track opus, full of both spirit and angst showcased K.ROB's aggressive flow, lyricism, and captivating presence. With a few select features from r&b talents Labrina, Charlie Vocals, and influential artist Gu Razer before he passed, Duhmmy's release was both pivotal and mystifying. For one, the creation of Duhmmy was partly due to K.ROB's travels in Georgia and Maryland, among other places. Duhmmy also went through phases of critique from friends and fellow artists like James Wynn and Shakamania X (who he made a novelty hip-hop Christmas project with called Santa's Not Real...We Are) which ultimately led to its success. It didn't take long after though for K.ROB to go back in hiding. His movement between states was partly due to forming a new LME.
K.ROB's most recent single "Nobody" features cameos from fellow artists Joh.E and James Wynn
“I always wanted to be a part of a wave. You know early 2000s rap and late 90s rap. Death Row, Ruff Ryders, Later on, Oddfuture," the rapper mentioned. "I grew up on rap crews. That energy, I’ve always been attracted to that.”
As LME - Love. Mastery. Elevation. - continues to find form and footing, it's exciting to know that this rap group and record label is working, moving, and shaking right under our noses.
Check out LME on the #BUFFACOLD2022 Playlist!
Stay up to date with them here: https://instagram.com/thelmecollective?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
#NEWVIBES: DAZE, THE LEADER DROPS "BAD MANNERS"
Leading with passion, vigor, and his grungy staple rhymes, Daze The Leader's new single "Bad Manners" is an anthem full of intentional braggadocio. The hook tells it all, - "You don't want no problems/ You don't want no problems with me n****/ Cuz then I gotta solve them/ And who better to solve them than me." Touching on stories of "making it out the mud" to his experiences being a boss to referencing the streets of Buffalo, Daze, the Leader's message reinforces his realness and place as a rising talent in the city. With a visual to match, shot by videographer Danny Vista, the lyricist intros his own song with another original "MOMW" or Man Of My Word. Produced by Roc Marciano and Ken Rutkowski, who is cameo'd in the visual, Daze reminisces a sunny day down Bailey Avenue - a staple in the town, finding truth in his duality and leading with strength. The visuals for "Bad Manners" turns up the energy, and find Daze The Leader and his crew vibing and getting some hits in. Watch the full video below.
Daze The Leader reintroduces himself with new single "Bad Manners" featuring another original song "MoMW"
Want to hear more from Daze,The Leader? Check out his 2020 EP The Leadership. The gritty rapper intertwines stories of the Buffalo Streets with an interesting perspective. Listen below!
https://open.spotify.com/album/4AJKAofVTa6a0cG2SjWdR0?si=1LuW1_R4Sc6brz0drdIUZw&utm_source=copy-link
FOLLOW DAZE, THE LEADER on ALL SOCIALS:
Instagram: https://instagram.com/dazetheleader?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/DazeTheLeaderVEVO
Check out Daze, The Leader on the #BUFFACOLD2022 Playlist
#BUFFACOLD: CMARP DEBUTs First SINGLE "FEEL ME"
Buffalo-based artist CMarP has been a wallflower within the hip-hop community for a while. He's watched, observed, and absorbed the culture, but now he's fully arrived. Dropping his debut single "Feel Me" early last month, the rising lyricist takes his time against brisk boom-bap production by staple producer Anna West. From the early beat breathe, to explaining his journey, to the infectious chorus "Just hoping that they feel me/ through the rhymes, between the lines is the real me/ I'm only focused on the things that fulfill me," CMarP intentions are riddled throughout the track. It's a song you'll have to give a few listens to just for the sheer artistry. A well-crafted introduction for an someone who's here to stay. Listen below.
CMARP Debut Single "Feel Me," Produced by Anna West.
FOLLOW CMARP on SOCIALS:
Instagram: https://instagram.com/therealcmarp?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y
Check out CMARP on the #BUFFACOLD2022 Playlist
#BUFFACOLD: 3 REASONS TO WATCH THE R&P PODCAST
It was in the midst of quarantine and experiencing the pandemic that artist Plax and commentator Rick joined forces to create the R&P Podcast. Sharing their views on pop culture, video games, music, and everything in between, the interesting duo is creating a space for people to enjoy light-hearted conversations filled with strong perspectives and humor. As black digital creators, they're providing enjoyable commentary on everything you could think of. Here are 3 reasons to watch the R&P Podcast right now.
The Hilarity
Whether it's TikToks, sketches or short clips on their Youtube, Rick and Plax always find a way to bring humor to situations. Some funny clips to watch are their most recent StockX sketch, the Jay Aquarious interview, and almost all of their reaction videos - they're sure to make jokes ensue.
2. Creating moments with their guests
From talking about politics with local activists to digging into life's philosophies with musical artists, both Rick and Plax create conversations that are entertaining and informative. Some of their featured guests have included Outwest Records, Busy B Love, Flxgdd among many others.
3. All of their reactions are genuine and thorough
The coolest thing about Rick and Plax is that they are consistently thorough when it comes to their reactions on new video games, movies, or any other thing they review. You don't feel lost when it comes to characters or happenings. They share interesting info that is both exciting and interesting. Their knowledge is shared effortlessly and their chemistry is on point!
FOLLOW R&P PODCAST on their Socials!
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0bcFMJgE7zSLQx2OX2MQUA
Instagram: https://instagram.com/rnp_podcast?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
#KEEPONVIBIN
#BUFFACOLD: BACKSTAGE W/ IMYOUNGWORLD
Buffalo-bred rapper and artist Imyoungworld has been on top of his game. With the support of the BSF (Black Soprano Family) record label, the success of his most recent album BLEU, and the standout single from that project, "WINS & LOSSES" featuring Sy Ari Da Kid racking up over 100k views on YouTube, the rapper is reaching critical mass. Earlier this year, I went backstage with Imyoungworld at his highly anticipated headlining show at Buffalo Iron Works. With an impressive lineup featuring rising talents like Brother Tom Sos, Flexxbabyy, and Bizzle On Da Beat, it was clear Imyoungworld is tapped into who's next up, and he's leading the charge.
Imyoungworld ft. Sy Ari da Kid - Wins & Losses
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Upon entering backstage, there was a sense of communal energy. Tucked in leather couches and spare chairs the rapper's entourage laughed, ate, and occasionally glanced at a small television that was playing the 2nd episode of Kanye's now highly acclaimed Netflix doc series Jeen-yus. Imyoungworld was zoned in though. Sitting in front of a mirror, while a barber edged him up, the artist was quiet, focused, and mentally preparing. As friends dipped out just before our interview, family eased in. His parents, loved ones, and many others were intentional with their embrace. There was a silent comfort in the air that ushered in our conversation.
“Music for me is all about feeling…I try to evoke whatever emotion I'm feeling," the rapper shared.
Curtis Vance aka Imyoungworld's musical roots are distinctly soulful, which explains the passion you hear in his music. Growing up in church, the rapper has always been deeply inspired by gospel music. With that as his foundation, it didn't take long for Imyoungworld to lean into music-making, and he cites his father giving him a beat machine as the beginning of that journey. Already equipped with a sense of musicality through playing instruments and then venturing out in electronic programs after conquering the beat machine, Imyoungworld beat-making continued to progress. Also, observing who his family and friends listened to informed his skill not only as a producer but as a rapper.
Imyoungworld performs songs from his project Sol live.
“I was influenced by everything that was coming my way musically. My older cousins listened to a lot of hip-hop and rap, same with my dad - DMX , 50 Cent were big influences for me rapping. And then my mom listened to a lot of r&b and soulful music and she was a big Prince fan…It’s just a lot of influences," the rapper shared.
Integrating his talents as a producer and an artist, Imyoungworld's approach, style, and guidance in his music is through observation, creation, and education. Teaching himself what sounds good, how to sing, and accentuating his rap style are all skills he's developed over time.
“Sometimes if I rap a song, it sounds different than if I was to sing the same lyrics," Imyoungworld mentioned. "It gives it a different feel so just learning how those two things become tools to kind of get across what I'm trying to do. So, it’s a little bit of influence, you know, just natural God-given ability, and then also there is some conscious decision-making.”
BSF IN B-BOY DOCUMENT: Cityboy, Benny The Butcher, Rick Hyde, Heem, Imyoungworld
Currently signed both to BSF and Empire, Imyoungworld's opportunities to elevate his music formed because of his consistency. The rapper connected with BSF shortly after Conway The Machine shot a music video at his recording studio a handful of years ago.
"Everybody was there, and that’s where I met Cityboy. I was playing my music, not with the intention of getting signed or anything, just to fill the ambiance…and he heard the music and saw who I was and he was like 'That's fire. We wanna rock with you,' and then they brought me on tour and then eventually I end up actually signing to them...the Empire situation came a little bit later," the artist reminisced.
Benny The Butcher who has previously done projects under Empire ushered in connections for Imyoungworld, who last Spring, secured a deal himself with the influential record label. During that time, recording music for Sol and BLEU, the rising artist managed to create a short-form video series on Instagram called Tea Time. Showcasing his work as a producer and a rapper, Imyoungworld kept his foot on the gas even during the process of creating his now-released projects - a necessary skill in hip-hop's ever-evolving terrain.
“I always believe that no matter what situation you get in, you always wanna have control over whatever you're doing…I can bring things to the table just like the labels can. You don’t just rely on the label to do things for you," he shared.
https://www.instagram.com/tv/CNdjr8zA3iu/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
Building out his repertoire on social media and through his music this last year, the release of Sol indicated a turning point for Imyoungworld. Dropping only a few singles since his 2019 project Legacy, Sol reintroduced the rapper as more introspective and transparent.
“This was a really emotional project," Imyoungworld explained. "I wanted people to understand more of my story and things that I go through. You know I’ve dealt with anxiety and stuff like that over the past few years. Getting therapy…You know I wanted to let my fans get a little bit more personal.”
Imyoungworld- Move Mountains
Integrating his sonic comfort zone: soul music with his experiences, Sol represents a shift in his rise as a talent and as a man. Gospel-tinged tracks like "Working," "Knophear" and "Eiffel" outlines the continuous hustle and bustle of being an artist. "Vegan" and "80 pounds" finds Imyoungworld in his element, stretching his skill as a wordsmith and producer, among a few other tracks that encapsulate the rapper's energy and motivation. Also inspired by his own personal beliefs, convictions, and doses of success, Sol highlights the rewards and sacrifices of Imyoungworld's career so far.
“I’m starting to feel like things are starting to revolve around me a little bit and you know certain things are dependent on my success so I kinda feel like the center of things sometimes. Whether I want to or not, that just comes with being in this position," the rapper mentioned.
Now riding on the impact of BLEU, Imyoungworld's trajectory has no limits. Securing 2 record deals, amassing over a million streams, and most recently headlining a show in his own city, it's all a matter of time before he blows.
SCENES FROM IMYOUNGWORLD'S IRONWORKS SHOW
FOLLOW IMYOUNGWORLD on SOCIALS:
Instagram: https://instagram.com/imyoungworld?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
Twitter: https://twitter.com/imyoungworld?s=21&t=2j4mrCzTTxECvFzNjqcfUg
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ImYoungWorld/videos
Check out IMYOUNGWORLD on the #BUFFACOLD2022 Playlist