Joanna What sparked your interest in pursuing a career in music initially? Was there a specific moment or experience that fueled your passion?
It was the combination of the late nineties Houston TX. DJ Screw/Swishahouse indie wave and the early 2000’s movements like Def Jux, Eastern Conference and Rhymesayers. I felt creatively I was right there in the middle.
Could you characterize your musical style and the genre(s) you associate with? Are there specific artists or musicians who have played a significant role in shaping your sound?
I’m going to pinpoint it for you. I’m from the post Dungeon Family era. I’m from the “out the trunk” sensibilities of 90’s Houston, TX and the Bay area of California. I was affected by the Rap City/Yo! MTV Raps wave. Organized Confusion, Wu-Tang Clan, 90’s East Coast cocaine rap, all those movements influenced me.
Share with us the inspiration behind your most recent single. What triggered the creative process for this specific piece?
“DARTH VADER TINT” set the visual tone and sound for the whole album. Deep synths and funk influenced basslines of the 80’s, I wanted that energy. I wanted to be Morris Day and Kool Keith put together.
In what way do you anticipate your latest song resonating with your existing fan base and attracting new listeners? What message or emotions do you aim for listeners to glean from the song?
I want to thank Larry June and Currency specifically. I see my music resonating with the lane of that approach. I feel fully related to that style. Without breaking a sweat or being a biter, I fall in line with that method. Music for the seekers of cool, fly Blackness in audio form. You must have solid taste to dig how I am coming. I want people to feel entertained on a positive level. You can ride to this or have it fill the house up like burning incense. My music fills up the room. You will nod your head. You will crack a smile or two.
How does this track contribute to the overarching narrative or theme of your upcoming album or project?
Kind of like I was saying earlier, this style is gigolo philosopher with a big dose of lyrical skill. This project strengthens this debonair, tongue in cheek image I have built since my breakout project “SINDROME” I like what I do, so I just do more of it.
Maintaining creativity and motivation can be challenging. Do you have any rituals or habits that you find instrumental in sustaining your artistic drive?
I am a fan first. When I hear stuff I like in the scene, it gets me hype to work. I have always been a connoisseur of good drinks and good smoke. As I have gotten more mature, I do less of that and more meditation and gym activities. I like juicing and green smoothies, stuff like that. I read a lot and watch foreign films. I’m still a comic book nerd and Blaxploitation film enthusiast. I draw inspiration from all that.
Do you have any upcoming projects or releases that you’re particularly enthusiastic about? Can you offer any teasers or details?
My next album is going to have all my favorite producers, period. All the brothers out here in DFW that I am a fan and friend to. I am going full blown rappity rap rapster. It’s going to be fun and fierce. It’s going to be called “Maximum Horsepower.” More action, more danger, more everything.
