Hip Hop & Rap Vocalist/ Writer

Q: Tell us about a project you worked on you are especially proud of and why. What was your role?

A: One project that stands out to me is my first client project, where I and the team were tasked with recording vocals and producing a professional music video on an extremely tight budget of just $300. The client had already written the song, and we were responsible for bringing it to life. What makes this project particularly impressive is the sheer value that was delivered despite the limited budget. We successfully recorded high-quality vocals, conceptualized and filmed a visually stunning music video, and delivered a final product that exceeded the client's expectations. I'm proud of what we accomplished with this project, and it continues to inspire us to push boundaries and deliver exceptional value for our clients, no matter the budget constraints.

Q: What are you working on at the moment?

A: Excited to be back in the swing of things after a brief hiatus! Currently in collaboration with a few clients on some innovative projects, and we're in the brainstorming phase. It's a thrilling time, filled with possibilities and creative potential. It's great to be back, and I'm eager to see where these collaborations will lead!

Q: Is there anyone on SoundBetter you know and would recommend to your clients?

A: We're still getting familiar with the SoundBetter community, excited however to connect with talented professionals and potential collaborators. No specific recommendations yet, but looking forward to establishing them! As we grow connections, we'll be happy to recommend trusted and skilled professionals to our clients, ensuring they receive the best support for their projects.

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: Digital, because the convenience and flexibility is unmatched. Analog has it's charm, however, with digital I streamline my workflow, meet deadlines, and deliver high-quality results with ease.

Q: What's your 'promise' to your clients?

A: To make the creative process as seamless and straightforward as possible, without sacrificing quality or attention to detail. While the creative process can be challenging, I'm committed to making it feel effortless and enjoyable for my clients. Your success is my top priority, and I'm dedicated to helping you achieve your artistic and professional goals.

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: I love that my job allows me to transform challenges and negativity into something positive and uplifting through the art process. It's incredibly liberating for both the creator and the consumer. This drives me and makes my job so rewarding. I find joy in helping others tap into this creative potential and witnessing the positive impact it has on their lives.

Q: What questions do customers most commonly ask you? What's your answer?

A: Most common questions are: Q: How long does a typical project take? A: The duration of a project depends on several factors, including its scope, complexity, and requirements. I'll work with you to understand your specific needs and provide a detailed estimate, ensuring we're on the same page from the start. Q: Can you help me with [specific task or service]? A: Yes, I can assist with [task/service]. If it's outside my expertise, I'll connect you with a trusted professional or provide a recommendation to ensure you receive the best support.

Q: What's the biggest misconception about what you do?

A: One of the biggest misconceptions about what I do is that comprehensive, well-crafted projects are out of reach for those with limited budgets. However, with sufficient budgeting and a solid financial strategy, achieving high-quality results is entirely attainable. Many people assume that premium production value requires an unrealistic budget, but I believe that creativity, planning, and resourcefulness can overcome financial constraints. By prioritizing goals, allocating resources effectively, and exploring innovative solutions, we can deliver exceptional results that exceed expectations. I'd love to help clients rethink their budgeting approach and explore ways to make their ambitious projects a reality. With a clear understanding of their goals and financial situation, I can offer tailored guidance on how to make the most of their budget and achieve outstanding outcomes.

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: When collaborating with a new client, I ask the following essential questions to ensure a successful project: 1. *Project Description*: Can you please share a detailed overview of your project, including its purpose, scope, and goals? 2. *Desired Outcomes*: What specific outcomes or results do you hope to achieve with this project? How will success be measured? 3. *Budget*: What is your allocated budget for this project? Are there any specific constraints or limitations I should be aware of? 4. *Timeline*: What is the desired timeline for completion, including key milestones and deadlines? 5. *Inspiration and References*: Can you share any inspiration, references, or existing materials that might help me understand your vision and preferences? 6. *Target Audience*: Who is the intended audience for this project, and what are their needs and expectations? 7. *Key Messaging*: What core message or value proposition do you want to convey through this project? 8. *Collaboration and Communication*: How do you envision our collaboration, and what communication channels do you prefer? With these, I gain a comprehensive understanding of the client's needs, ensuring a tailored approach that meets their expectations and delivers a successful outcome.

Q: What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?

A: 1. *Define Your Vision*: Clearly know what you want or what you like. Take time to gather references, inspirations, and ideas to help communicate your expectations. 2. *Describe It Best*: Articulate your vision and requirements as detailed as possible. This ensures we're on the same page and can deliver your desired outcome. 3. *Set a Realistic Budget*: Establish a budget that aligns with your expectations. Keep in mind that quality often correlates with cost. Be prepared to invest in your project's success. 4. *Be Open to Growth*: Be willing to adapt and refine your ideas as the project evolves. This collaborative mindset fosters a better end result. 5. *Communicate Effectively*: Regularly share your thoughts, feedback, and concerns. Open dialogue ensures a smooth process and a final product that meets your needs. By following these guidelines, you'll be well-prepared to find the right provider, achieve your desired outcome, and enjoy a successful collaboration.

Q: If you were on a desert island and could take just 5 pieces of gear, what would they be?

A: If we're talking music (the only thing that really matters, wink wink), I'll bring: - Solar-powered recording equipment, because sustainability is key - A mic, to capture the sweet sounds of my island blues - A laptop, to produce my debut album, "Coconuts and Heartbreak" - An interface, to connect it all and make beautiful music - Speakers and headphones, to jam out to my island beats and pretend I'm still relevant

Q: What was your career path? How long have you been doing this?

A: I embarked on my career journey in 2016. Since then, I've dedicated myself to building a strong foundation of mastery, taking a deliberate and patient approach to develop my skills. Over the past 8 years, I've: - Honed my craft through rigorous practice and experimentation - Explored various genres and techniques to refine my unique sound - Collaborated with diverse artists and producers to broaden my perspective - Continuously sought feedback and guidance from industry experts By prioritizing slow and steady growth, I've established a robust foundation in music production, allowing me to: - Confidently tackle complex projects - Adapt to new challenges and technologies - Deliver high-quality results that exceed client expectations My journey is a testament to the power of dedication, persistence, and a willingness to learn and improve.

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: My style is a fusion of intention and intensity, designed to provoke thought and spark excitement. I balance nuanced, thought-provoking elements with bold, extreme moments, creating a unique blend.

Q: Which artist would you like to work with and why?

A: Currently, I'd love to collaborate with Eminem. His genre-pushing style and unapologetic lyrics resonate with my own creative phase. Working with Eminem would be an incredible opportunity. His fearless approach to artistry aligns with my current growth phase, where I'm eager to experiment and take bold creative risks. The prospect of combining our skills and perspectives is thrilling, and I believe we could create something truly innovative and memorable together.

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: Just as a great melody needs space to breathe, your mind needs rest to recharge. Make time for regular breaks, allowing yourself to step away from the studio or workspace!

Q: What type of music do you usually work on?

A: I typically collaborate on a wide range of music projects, but my sweet spot is adding unique depth and flavor to tracks through feature performances. My clients often invite me to: - Add distinctive vocals or instrumentation to enhance their songs - Bring new energy and perspective to their existing material - Co-create and perform original tracks that showcase their artistry While feature performances are my bread and butter, I'm excited to take on more comprehensive projects where I can handle the full package - from concept to completion. I'm eager to explore new opportunities and push the boundaries of my creativity.

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: My strongest skill lies in problem-solving and adaptability. I excel at identifying and mitigating potential roadblocks, ensuring seamless project execution. With a keen eye for detail and a creative approach, I: - Diagnose complex issues - Develop innovative solutions - Collaborate with teams to implement fixes - Refine processes for future efficiency My expertise in problem removal enables clients to: - Overcome creative hurdles - Meet deadlines with confidence - Achieve their vision without compromise - Enjoy a stress-free project experience By tackling problems head-on, I empower clients to focus on their core vision, resulting in exceptional outcomes and long-term success.

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: I bring a distinctive tone and perspective to project creation, fueled by my passion for innovative storytelling and collaborative problem-solving. My approach is centered around: - Unique Tone: I infuse projects with a one-of-a-kind tone that resonates with the client's vision and audience. - Diverse Perspective: I tap into my network of talented individuals from various backgrounds and industries, carefully selecting those whose expertise will most benefit the client's project. - Customized Collaboration: I assemble a dream team for each project, ensuring that the right skills and perspectives come together to deliver exceptional results. - Adaptive Creativity: I thrive in the gray areas between disciplines, combining unconventional ideas and techniques to create something truly remarkable. - Empathetic Storytelling: I prioritize understanding the client's goals, values, and audience, weaving these elements into a compelling narrative that resonates and inspires. - Sonic Innovation: I push the boundaries of sound design, experimenting with fresh textures and atmospheres to elevate the project's emotional impact. - Visual Excellence: I balance aesthetics with functionality, crafting visuals that captivate and communicate the message with clarity and precision. By combining these elements, I create immersive experiences that leave a lasting impression and exceed client expectations.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: Our typical work process involves a collaborative and iterative approach: 1. _Project Briefing_: Clients share their vision, goals, and objectives with us. 2. _Concept Development_: We brainstorm ideas, exploring creative directions and possibilities. 3. _Pre-Production_: We refine concepts, plan logistics, and schedule sessions. 4. _Recording/Production_: We capture high-quality audio and video, using our diverse setup. 5. _Post-Production_: We edit, mix, and master audio, while our video team edits and color grades footage. 6. _Revisions and Feedback_: Clients review our work, providing feedback for refinement. 7. _Finalization_: We deliver the final product, ensuring client satisfaction. 8. _Launch Support_ (Optional): As we continue to develop our services, we're exploring ways to support clients in launching and promoting their projects. (We're still in the development phase of this aspect, but we're excited about the potential to offer more comprehensive support.) Throughout, we maintain open communication, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for clients. Adaptability and creative problem-solving are key, as every project presents unique challenges and opportunities. Our team is dedicated to delivering exceptional results and continually improving our processes.

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: Our team's studio setup is a fusion of diverse tools and expertise. The recording team relies on: - HP Envy Curved AIO 34 desktop computer, providing ample power for demanding sessions - Rode NT-1 microphone, capturing crisp and warm vocals and instrument recordings - Focusrite Scarlett interface, ensuring high-quality audio conversion and low latency - Audio-Technica M50x headphones, delivering accurate monitoring and mixing - FL Studio as our DAW of choice, perfect for hip-hop and electronic music production - Sony MDR-7506 monitors, offering clear and balanced sound reproduction Meanwhile, the video team brings ideas to life with: - MacBook Pro, handling demanding video editing and color grading tasks with ease - Canon EOS 5D Mark IV camera, capturing stunning 4K footage and photos - 360-degree photo booth, allowing for immersive and interactive visual experiences - DJI Mini 2 drone, capturing breathtaking aerial footage and adding a new perspective to our projects - Adobe Premiere Pro, our go-to video editing software for crafting compelling narratives and visuals

Q: What other musicians or music production professionals inspire you?

A: I draw inspiration from a diverse range of musicians and producers who push the boundaries of creativity and innovation. Artists like Kendrick Lamar, Billie Eilish, and Tame Impala, who blend genre-bending sounds with thought-provoking storytelling, fuel my passion for experimentation and sonic exploration. On the production side, I'm influenced by trailblazers like Rick Rubin, Mark Ronson, and Flying Lotus, who continually raise the bar for production quality and artistic vision. Closer to home, I'm also inspired by the thriving music scene in South Africa, where artists like Nasty C, Moonchild Sanelly, and Sun-EL Musician are redefining the sound of contemporary African music.

Q: Describe the most common type of work you do for your clients.

A: As a music and video production specialist, I'm passionate about empowering independent artists to elevate their brand and storytelling. With a fresh perspective and a hunger to make my mark, I'm driven to deliver innovative solutions that exceed client expectations. Backed by a talented team and a relentless pursuit of excellence, I'm confident in my ability to bring creative visions to life. I'm eager to collaborate, learn, and grow with each project, and I'm excited to prove myself as a rising force in the industry.