SoundCloud Gems - May 3, 2023

We are excited to present our forth episode of "Soundcloud Gems", which features a carefully curated selection of artists who are making waves on SoundCloud. These emerging artists have been gaining traction and attention in the underground music scene with their unique sound and style, and we are proud to showcase their talent.

From the energetic beats of LosTK to the ambient sounds of Vaeo, each artist on our list brings something different to the table. We are excited to feature Caponeti, Viizzi, Jahhlu, Emags, Runner Boy, Angelus, Scruff, Sxulz, Frost'd, Ghostsocial, and Polar in this post. Read more about the artists below

july.

july. is a newcomer to the underground scene and encompasses what we’ve described as a breath of fresh air every time a track of theirs enters our ears. Their track “ily2”, featuring fellow artist, Babebee, draws you into a delicate atmosphere, yet grounds you with cutting truths and heart-wrenching introspection. July is an artist we can’t seem to stop listening to, and we hope you guys get the earbug for their music all 2023!

LosTK

LosTK has a demanding presence as soon as he enters any track. A gruff and aggressive vocal tone, one that can surprisingly rise gently into higher registers, allows this artist to do a variety of flows over whatever beat he wants. Oh, we didn’t tell you? Los is a self-produced artist, and with the way his beats form around his vocals, you can tell he can manufacture his gritty, yet cautionary insights easily.

Vaeo

Vaeo has been a fan favorite of ours for a long time, and we’re so excited we can finally talk about them. The first track we heard from them was “luminescence”, a combined effort between them and Rouri404, which we would soon come to realize as a powerhouse duo within the underground community. Vaeo’s evocative vocals and deep-cutting lyrics towards themselves and whoever might happen to be listening allows the listener to almost bare their heart out without having to say a word. Vaeo will do it all for you, and that catharsis is what we think is a big part of why we love their music so much.

Caponeti

Caponeti is a mood changer, and we mean that in the best of ways. If you’re feeling pissed off, turn on “emulate” with keeta and bronclair. If you’re feeling down, play “distance between us” with Novastein If you’re feeling like a bad b*tch bump “Dota” with Jons. We honestly don't think there’s anything Caponeti can’t do with a mic and DAW, all it takes is some fun idea to enter his head and you have a hit song playing in your ears, it’s an amazing, enjoyable ride tuning in to what may cook up next.

Viizzi

Viizzi is the auditory manifestation of detonating C4 in your car and reveling in the explosion. Viizzi will give you a boost of adrenaline if he happens to come on speakers and there’s no way you’re skipping a second of it. We first heard Viizzi through NS favorite, simon m’s single “TRUE RELIGION”, featuring patrick o’ neill, swazy, and k0a. From there we were on a tear, with singles like “murder for hire” with funeral, “broken” with pichu, or “nuketown”, produced by frost’d, the man simply cannot miss.

Jahhlu

Jahhlu has been an enormous presence in the underground scene for a while now, recognized by the Soundcloud platform itself on multiple occasions due to his unrelenting talent. Jahhlu is a master of putting out multiple projects and tracks within little time of each other and having insanely different styles of musicality working exemplary in their own lanes. There isn’t a Jahhlu song we’ve been iffy on, he is able to fit the overall vibe and atmosphere of each of his tracks with surgical precision.

Emags

Emags is such a fun artist to listen to. With the specific stress he puts on his vocal tone, plus the natural husk in his voice, any song he’s on sounds like you’re getting ready to fight a supervillain and just got the best superpower. Emags is able to release evocative tracks that stick in your head for days on end such as “all in my head”, and then completely spin you for 180 degrees with absolute bangers like “Snooze” and his new effort “GOGETA” with Staggy. The artist is ever-evolving while keeping his signature sound close to his belt, a master in his craft.

Runner Boy

Runner Boy has been a fan favorite of ours for a couple of months now. Their song “BACKWARDS”, with Babebee, was our introduction to who they were a producer, utilizing beautiful drum and bass patterns underneath nostalgic and nocturnal melodies above. Then we listened to their album, “BOY”, and were blown away. Runner has a unique ability to have music videos immediately formulating in your head when you hear the first kick. A beautiful, sultry tone to his voice adds to an amazing picturesque every time you press play.

Angelus

Angelus is the second French artist in this community we’ve brought a spotlight to, but if their artistry tells us anything it’s that we hope they’re not the last. Angelus is a pure pop star in the making and has made waves within the underground community for years. With the release of their latest project, “sphynx” Angelus showed us their immeasurable versatility/ From the dance/trap endeavor “holly shuffle” to the deeply resonating “over you” produced by both joss and angelus themselves. Angelus’ voice gives off a sense of constant confidence and stress they put on the high end of their tone giving it such an alluring feel. Please check out Angelus today!

Scruff

Scruff is the artistic equivalent of enjoying a nice indica strain before bed or as soon as you wake. He’s a breath of refreshing cool air on a night walk. His voice is smooth yet merry allowing a smooth and uplifting experience sonically, even if the themes behind his music may be darker and more introspective than originally let on. When our ears first heard his efforts on sai’s production, we knew he had found a fun, light-hearted and vibe-ridden path for himself and we’re always excited to hear what he does next. We hope after listening to him that you are too!

Sxulz

Sxulz is a different type of vocalist entirely. Utilizing a low-vibrating tone along with expert layering gives Sxulz an almost disembodied texture to it that sets him apart from most vocalists of his type within the community. In addition, the sleepy, dusky production style he finds himself in adds to the overall dark atmosphere he provides on his tracks. Sxulz is also able to wave together witty punchlines with contemplative self-reasoning, a fun trait to hear time and time again with each effort.

Frost’d

Frost’d is probably one of the most popular producers within the underground community, having made beats for almost every notable artist within the scene to date. The crazy part is, he’s only fifteen years old. Frost’d has made tracks for heavyweights such as midwxst, keeta, DPF, reef, aftrr, weial, jiccjucc, bronclair, clip, and many more. His unique, heavy production style, especially explored through the design of his 808s is an incredible feat to hear for someone so young and we only see good things in the future for this blossoming talent.

Ghostsocial

Ghostsocial is someone we’ve come to listen to a lot of as of recent. With a first listen through the facet of “crawl” we were introduced to the dark and deeply personal world that Ghostsocial dwells within. On tracks like “fool” and “make it out” Ghost is able to truly strike at the heart of those rawest emotions. His music is like screaming off the top of a mountain or in the middle of a vacant parking garage, cathartic.

Polar

Polar is an incredible vocalist, from the way their powerful, assertive tone is meshed behind the slightest radio effect, to the extremely precise sound design that bolsters every heart-piercing lyrics out of their mouth. Polar’s duo effort “surface” with fellow artist Tigerstar really blew us away. From the subject matter to the immaculate production quality on display, Polar will make sure your ears always have an unforgettable time, and we mean that in the most positive of ways. Please check out Polar this year!

Nefarious Supply Radio Episode 002 - jev.

For our 2nd Episode of NS Radar episode 2 we had the pleasure of talking with jev., a talented artist who has overcome many challenges throughout his career, making him an inspiration to aspiring artists. jev's unique and diverse background, having lived in the Congo, South Africa, and Canada, has allowed him to draw inspiration from all kinds of music, making his music relatable and authentic.

During the interview, jev. elaborates on his latest single "lonrwrld" and his album "The Color Grey." He talks about the creative process behind his music and the challenges he faced while creating "lonrwrld." jev. reveals that his latest single is a freestyle that showcases his lyrical ability and sets the tone for his upcoming projects. It's a great introduction to jev's world, sonically and aesthetically. jev.'s album "The Color Grey" is a concept album that explores the transitional periods in life, from being a teen to an adult, or from rags to riches. jev.'s music captures these moments perfectly, and his latest single "lonrwrld" is no exception.

jev.'s playlist for NS Radar Episode 2 showcases his love for all kinds of music, from Jill Scott to Biggie Smalls, and everything in between. Music is a universal language, and jev's background has allowed him to draw inspiration from all kinds of music. He shares the reasoning behind the songs he chose and how they relate to his personal experiences and artistic vision. jev.'s playlist is a testament to his diverse background and his love for all kinds of music.

jev.'s success as an artist has not come without challenges. During the interview, jev. discusses the biggest challenge he has faced so far, which is the mental challenges that most artists go through, such as asking oneself if the music is good enough or if he's going to make it. jev. stresses the importance of not seeking validation from the outside and engaging with people that have similar goals. jev.'s message is clear - perseverance and commitment to one's craft are key to overcoming challenges.

jev.'s music is a testament to his perseverance and commitment to his craft. His latest single "lonrwrld" is a great example of his talent and dedication, and we're excited to see what he has in store for the future. jev. has upcoming projects and collaborations in the works, and he encourages his fans and listeners to continue supporting his music. jev.'s message to his listeners is clear - he's overjoyed and overwhelmed by all the love his projects have received, and he will forever be grateful for their support.

Overall, jev.'s interview is an insightful and inspiring conversation about the creative process behind his music, his personal experiences, and his challenges as an artist. jev.'s music is a true reflection of his background and experiences, making it relatable and authentic. jev.'s dedication to his craft is an inspiration to aspiring artists, and his message is clear - perseverance and commitment are key to success. Read more about jev. below and check out the playlist he put togeher for NS RADAR episode 2.

First of all, congratulations on the remarkable achievement of "Where's The Confetti" hitting 1 million streams on Spotify. As an artist, how does it feel to have such a positive response to your music, and what does this success mean to you personally and professionally?

Thank you. For me personally as an artist success is making sharing your art and people resonating with it in any fashion, that's success for me, I feel like art is suppose disrupt good or bad, so people engaging with it any sort of fashion is success to me. Professionally, I am grateful people are streaming and enjoying the music, success to me in a professional sense is growth, I remember the times when it was only 50 people streaming, so the growth is amazing to see and that is success to me.

With the recent release of your new song "lonrwrld" (freestyle), could you elaborate on the creative process behind it? For instance, how did you come up with the idea for the song, and what was the recording process like? Were there any particular challenges you faced while creating "lonrwrld"?

lonrwrld is my first offering after my project “the color grey” with this song in particular I wanted to double down on my brand and image even more, especially with all the new eyes on me, I wanted to make a statement and differentiate myself image and sonic wise. The only challenged I faced was really getting everything ready in time, luckily everything went smoothly and people are resonating with the single.

In comparison to your previous releases, both sonically and thematically, how would you say "lonrwrld" differs? What inspired the song's lyrics, and how do they relate to your personal experiences, if at all? What message do you hope to convey to your listeners through "lonrwrld"?

lonrwrld is very similar to the songs on my project, a little bit more mature and laid back but still very similar sonically. With this song I wasn't looking to go too far out of my comfort zone or experiment with sonics, I wanted to continue playing in the same sonic realm I created with “the color grey”. For the project however there will be more experimenting and just getting out my comfort zone both lyrically and sonically.

Continuing on the theme of your music, what inspired the themes and lyrics on your previous album, "The Color Grey"? How did you draw on your own personal experiences to create the album, and what was the creative process like from start to finish?

I came up with the concept of the project a little while back before the pandemic, the theme pertains around translational periods, whether that's from being a teen to adult or from rags to riches etc. it’s about different translational periods and the grey area between these periods and songs like “where’s the confetti?” capture these moments perfectly, the idea behind “where’s the confetti?” was someone that starts to gain success but notices he/she is not getting love or support from those around them Ann the begin to ask where’s the love, where’s the congratulations, where’s the roses, where’s the celebration/ hence the title where’s the confetti?. The whole idea of the translational period came to me when I graduated high school and just started college and was in a place in my life where I just felt like I was crossroads in terms of what I wanted to do with my life and started to notice that life was not as black and white as I expected and I found myself ion a grey. hence the title “The color grey”

As a successful artist, you have faced many challenges throughout your career. What would you say has been the biggest challenge you have faced so far, and how did you overcome it? What advice would you give to other aspiring artists facing similar challenges?

The mental challenges are probably the main thing most artists go through. asking yourself if the music is good enough or if you're going to make it, etc. Also, trying to navigate the world as an artist you realize the world loves art but they hate artists. I overcame that by not seeking validation from the outside and engaging with people that have similar goals to me and are in the same space I'm in.

In the context of your overall body of work as an artist, how do you feel "lonrwrld" contributes to your artistic vision? What do you hope listeners take away from the song, both individually and as part of your larger body of work?

In terms of sonics I think “lonrwrld” is a great introduction for potential supporters to me as an artist and what they can expect from me. I called “lonrwrld” because it’s a great introduction to my world, sonically and aesthetically.

Could you discuss any specific musical or production choices you made with "lonrwrld" that you particularly enjoyed? How did you decide on the overall sound and tone of the song, and were there any specific influences or inspirations that played a role in its creation?

This is one of my easiest songs to write because it's just me having and really exercising my lyrical ability, working closely with the producer, Swisher, the beat came easy and was perfect for the sound I'm building. The only thing I added that I feel like brought more life to the song and made it even more interesting is the little skit between the verses, I feel like that was perfect and shows my personality in the music without being too extra about it.

Moving on to your recent appearance on NS RADAR, can you walk us through your creative process for compiling the playlist for episode 2? What was the inspiration behind the songs you chose, and how do they relate to your own personal experiences and artistic vision?

Luckily for me, I grew up with a very diverse background from the Congo to South Africa to Canada. I have heard literally all kinds of music and have been influenced by all of it. With the songs I chose I really wanted to showcase that. So I chose music I grew up on and music that was influenced me and music that I'm currently listening to. Because of my background, my playlist can literally go from Jill Scott to Khuli Chana, from Nas to Awilo Longomba, From Biggie Smalls to Kirk Franklin. I love all kinds of music, I’m restricted to none. With all the places I've lived, the one thing I learned is music is a universal language, a good song is a good song anywhere.

Were there any specific songs or artists that you included in the NS RADAR episode 2 playlist that hold a special significance to you? If so, can you share the reason behind it, and how they have influenced your own music?

Yes, a South African rapper by the name of AKA. One of my favorite rappers to date, he was the first celebrity I have ever met and the first verse I ever memorized was one of his. A true African legend and one of my childhood heroes.

Finally, where can your fans and listeners find your music, and what other upcoming projects or collaborations do you have in the works? How can your listeners continue to support your music, and what message would you like to send to them?

I have a couple more single drops this year but a project coming hopefully by the end of the year, I want to be active with videos this year. I’m overjoyed and overwhelmed by all the love the project received and will forever be grateful.

Content Marketing for Building an Audience for Underground Artists

As an underground artist, it can be challenging to get your work noticed in a world where there's an overwhelming amount of content available online. This is where content marketing comes into play.

Content marketing is a powerful, cost-effective way to reach your target audience by creating and distributing valuable content that resonates with them. With content marketing, you can showcase your work and connect with your fans in a meaningful way, which can help you build a loyal following and grow your audience.

Here are some tips for creating effective content marketing as an underground artist:

Define Your Audience

Before creating any content, it's essential to define your target audience. Who are you creating for? What are their interests? Where do they consume content? Understanding your audience is key to creating content that resonates with them and reaches them where they are.

For example, if you're a visual artist, your target audience may be people who love art, follow art blogs, or attend art exhibitions. Knowing this will help you tailor your content to this audience and create content that they will enjoy.

Showcase Your Work

Your content should showcase your work and give fans a taste of what you're all about. This can include sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of your creative process, debuting new work, or offering exclusive content to your fans.

For example, if you're a musician, you can share snippets of your recording sessions or live performances, while a photographer can share their editing process or offer a peek at a photoshoot. This will give your fans a glimpse into your work and help them connect with you on a deeper level.

Engage with Your Fans

Content marketing is all about building relationships with your audience. Engage with your fans by responding to comments, asking for feedback, and even collaborating with them on projects. This will help build loyalty and create a sense of community around your work.

For example, you can ask your fans to suggest ideas for your next project or ask for feedback on your latest release. This will show your fans that you value their opinion and are committed to creating work that resonates with them.

Use Free Resources

There are many free resources available to help underground artists create and distribute their content. Here are a few:

• Canva: Create professional-looking graphics and designs for your social media posts, blog, or website.

• Audacity: Record and edit your own podcasts or music.

• Hootsuite: Schedule your social media posts in advance to save time.

By using these tools, you can create high-quality content that stands out from the crowd.

Stay Consistent

Consistency is key when it comes to content marketing. Create a content calendar and stick to it, whether that means posting on social media every day or releasing a new podcast episode every week. This will help build momentum and keep your fans engaged.

When it comes to content marketing, consistency is crucial to success. One way to achieve consistency is by creating a content calendar, which can help you plan and organize your content strategy. By mapping out your content in advance, you can ensure that you always have something new and interesting to share with your audience.

In addition to creating a content calendar, it's also important to maintain a regular posting schedule. This means posting on social media every day, releasing a new podcast episode every week, or whatever schedule works best for your brand. By establishing a routine, you'll build momentum and keep your fans engaged with your content.

But consistency isn't just about posting at regular intervals. It's also about maintaining a consistent voice and message across all your content channels. This means using the same tone and style in your blog posts, social media updates, and other content, and ensuring that your messaging is always aligned with your brand values and goals.

By focusing on consistency in your content marketing efforts, you can build trust with your audience and establish your brand as a reliable source of information and entertainment. So don't underestimate the power of consistency – it can be the key to your success in content marketing.

Collaborate with Other Artists

Collaboration is an excellent way to expand your reach and connect with new audiences. Collaborating with other artists can help you tap into their fan base and introduce your work to a new audience.

For example, if you're a musician, you can collaborate with a visual artist to create a music video or album cover. If you're a writer, you can collaborate with an illustrator to create a graphic novel. These collaborations can help you create something unique and share it with a broader audience.

In conclusion, content marketing is a powerful tool for building an audience for underground artists. By defining your audience, showcasing your work, engaging with your fans, using free resources, staying consistent, and collaborating with other artists, you can create content that resonates with your fans and helps you reach new audiences.

As an underground artist, it can be tough to get your work noticed online. Our agency creates effective content marketing strategies to help you connect with your target audience and build a loyal following.

We can help you define your audience, showcase your work, engage with fans, and create high-quality content that stands out. Whether you're creating content for your next single or rollout, we'll help you plan an effective strategy to reach new audiences and build a fan base.

Contact us today to learn how we can help you create compelling content that resonates with your audience and helps you stand out from the competition.

Sources

• Content Marketing Institute. (2021). What Is Content Marketing? Retrieved from https://contentmarketinginstitute.com/what-is-content-marketing/

• Moz. (2021). The Beginner's Guide to Content Marketing. Retrieved from https://moz.com/beginners-guide-to-content-marketing

• Sprout Social. (2021). 20 Free Resources to Boost Your Online Marketing. Retrieved from https://sproutsocial.com/insights/free-online-marketing-tools/

Written with the assistance of OpenAI

NS Radar - Episode 1 Spring 2023

Introducing NS Radio Episode 1 a showcase of exceptional music and artists we’ve featured so far this year, as well as the music that has grabbed our attention. We take pride in featuring the finest talents from the underground and emerging music scene, presenting a diverse range of genres and styles. The albums and artists that have captured our attention so far this year includes "The Game is The Game" by WesWill. "4theLovers” by StashtheWave, Sincere Hunte's "Roadman","Blur" by Ultravioletenvy, Jyou's "Living On Edge". As well as amazing new singles from Apollo1027, Scotty Apex, Bailey Straughn with Cadeem LaMarr, Raemi, Noozi, Neeko Crowe, $avvy, Avenoir, SAINT LYOR, Harvey Whyte, Three65, Saint Alexander, Qdajuice, Justin Nozuka, ImYoung , Luke Bars, BIGBABYGUCCI, Dreamer Isioma, needanamebro, Lango, Qire Snow, TyFontaine, Arhinslim, and Léa Sen. .

The Game is The Game - WesWill 

"The Game Is The Game" is the latest project from WesWill, a rising underground artist who has been making waves in the hip-hop world with his unique style and creative vision. Released on February 28,2023, the album features five tracks that showcase WesWill's distinctive sound and musical influences.

WesWill's musical influences are apparent throughout the album, and he expertly blends a variety of sounds to create a cohesive and captivating project. His passion for hip-hop is evident in his lyrics and delivery, while his willingness to experiment with different styles and sounds keeps the listener engaged and intrigued. In "The Game Is The Game," WesWill showcases his versatility as an artist, delivering a range of tracks that are both catchy and introspective.

The project highlights his ability to tell stories and showcase his personality through his music. His creative vision and dedication to his craft are on full display throughout the album, making it a must-listen for fans of underground hip-hop. Overall, "The Game Is The Game" is a strong addition to WesWill's discography and a testament to his musical abilities. The album showcases his unique style, thoughtful lyrics, and impressive collaborations, making it a standout project in the current landscape of hip-hop music.

StashtheWave - 4theLovers

StashtheWave's latest album, "4 The Lovers," is a masterful work of art that showcases the artist's impressive skills as a music producer. The album features five tracks, each of which seamlessly blends together elements of hip-hop and soul to create a unique and captivating sound that is sure to leave a lasting impression on listeners.

The album opens up with "Weary Morning," a track that sets the tone for the rest of the project with its smooth, jazzy instrumentation and laid-back groove. From there, the album transitions into "Wish You Were Here," a song that features a haunting piano melody and lush string arrangements that create an atmosphere of melancholic reflection.

The third track on the album, "Is It A Crime," showcases StashtheWave's ability to craft complex and dynamic beats that never feel cluttered or overwhelming. The song features a pulsing bassline and intricate drum patterns that are perfectly complemented by the track's soaring vocal samples. Overall, "4 The Lovers" is a stunning piece of work that showcases StashtheWave's immense talent and versatility as a music producer. The album seamlessly blends together elements of hip-hop and soul to create a sound that is uniquely his own, and it is sure to resonate with listeners and backgrounds.

Sincere Hunte - Roadman 

Based out of Nashville Sincere Hunte recently released his latest album, "Roadman".  His third project release since his debut project “The Genesis”. The album is a 12-track project that showcases Sincere's unique style and features collaborations with talented artists such as devin., Mike Floss, Georgie Zaven, $avvy, and Ronin Black.

"Roadman" opens with the upbeat and catchy track "Havana Candy", which sets the tone for the rest of the album. The song features a hard-hitting beat and Sincere's confident flow, which immediately grabs the listener's attention. From there, the album takes the listener on a journey through Sincere's life experiences, emotions, and struggles, all while maintaining a consistent and cohesive sound.

One of the standout tracks on "Roadman" is "TIL the END", a reflective and introspective song that showcases Sincere's ability to convey his emotions through his lyrics. The track features a soulful sample and a laid-back beat, allowing Sincere's words to take center stage. Another notable song on the album is "Carried Away (4U)", a high-energy track that features guest verses from Georgie Zaven.

Throughout the album, Sincere explores a variety of themes, including personal growth, relationships, and the pursuit of success. His introspective and honest lyrics are paired with top-notch production, making "Roadman" a project that is both enjoyable to listen to and thought-provoking.

Ultravioletenvy - Blur

ULTRAVIOLETENVY's "Blur" is an immersive R&B project that takes the listener on a journey of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. The six-track album opens with "SO” a soulful track that sets the tone for the rest of the project. As the album progresses, ULTRAVIOLETENVY showcases his range and versatility as an artist. Throughout "Blur," ULTRAVIOLETENVY's lyrics are honest and vulnerable, drawing the listener in and allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the emotion of each song. The production on the album is equally impressive, with atmospheric beats and dreamy melodies that perfectly complement ULTRAVIOLETENVY's vocals. Overall, "Blur" is a stunning showcase of ULTRAVIOLETENVY's talents as an artist. The album's poignant lyrics, captivating vocals, and atmospheric production come together to create a truly immersive listening experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who listens.

JYou - Living On Edge 

Jyou, the Nashville-based rapper, has once again captivated listeners with his latest album "Living on Edge." “Living on Edge" is a 10-track masterpiece that exemplifies Jyou's unique style and creative genius. With his signature blend of gritty lyrics, infectious hooks, and dynamic flow, Jyou delivers an album that pushes the boundaries of hip-hop music. From start to finish, the album is a rollercoaster of emotions, taking listeners on a journey through Jyou's mind and experiences.

Throughout the album, Jyou's skillfully weaves together thought-provoking verses with introspective reflections on life, love, and the challenges he has faced along the way. The track "Brokeboi" featuring KON, is a prime example of Jyou's ability to deliver hard-hitting lyrics with precision and intensity. The collaboration with Chuck iNDigo on "Backkk" is another highlight, showcasing Jyou's versatility as an artist and his ability to collaborate seamlessly with other talented musicians.

"Living on Edge" is a masterclass in underground hip-hop, the album is a true testament to Jyou's artistic talent and dedication to his craft. It's a must-listen for any fan of hip-hop music, and a shining example of Jyou's prowess as a rising star in the in memphis.

Scotty Apex - Data Bend

An artist that is always willing to push him self creatively for huge pay offs Scotty Apex once again delivered on his newest project Data Bend. Scotty worked closely with VVD SOUND, who did the majority of the production on DATA BEND. He also collaborated with other producers, like PnkBlknt, Sammy the Producer, Kami Osha, and Ack, to create the album's unique sounds. The greatest gift he can gives his audience is to be dedicated to his craft and to continue pushing himself to the next level of his creative journey as an artist. The sonics of the album have a theme of genre-bending elements, which infuses many of his influences to showcase the art of everything creative that he loves being able to exist cohesively.

Autmn Rains - You Know, I Can’t Stay

"You Know I Can't Stay," features eight tracks that showcase Autmn’s artistic growth and emotional depth. The album is a testament to her artistry and ability to craft deeply personal and moving music that resonates with listeners. The album's standout tracks include "Without You," "Stay," and "Running Away," which highlight her vocal versatility and her ability to convey raw emotions with power and nuance. The production on the album is also noteworthy, with contributions from talented producers such as DV$TPH, Tokiowahl, and Cyclope Beatz, who bring a fresh and innovative approach to Autumn Rains' sound. Autumn Rains' music has a way of drawing in listeners and creating a connection that is both personal and universal. Her lyrics are relatable, and her voice conveys a sense of vulnerability that invites listeners to share in her experiences. Her ability to capture the complexities of human emotions is what sets her apart and makes her a standout in the underground music scene.

Overall, Autumn Rains is an artist to watch, and her latest album, "You Know I Can't Stay," is a testament to her creative prowess and her commitment to delivering honest and impactful music. She is poised to take the music world and establish herself as a force to be reckoned with in the industry.

At Nefarious Supply, we take pride in featuring the underground talent of tomorrow. Our mission is to support and elevate the talents of emerging and underground artists, giving them the recognition they deserve and connecting them with music lovers who crave unique and exceptional sounds. We believe that music is a powerful art form that has the ability to transcend boundaries, break barriers, and the artist featured so far this year are doing exactly that.

Ultravioletenvy - Blur EP

Congrats on releasing your new EP, BLUR! How has the reception been so far? 

Thanks, The reception’s been good. I got more support than I thought I would have. I also got more streams than I thought I’d get.

BLUR is an interesting title for an EP. What inspired the name and how does it relate to the music on the project?

In all honesty, I named it that because I just thought it sounded really cool but I also wanted people to perceive the title in their own way. There’s not a deep meaning behind it.I just wanted a cool and simple title. 

Your EP features six tracks. Can you tell us a little bit about how you chose these particular songs and what inspired them?

All these songs are inspired by my own perspective and experiences with girls. I usually write what I truly go through or feel. I chose these songs because they’re cohesive. 

Your sound has been described as a unique blend of R&B, electronic, and underground influences. What inspired you to explore this particular sound, and how did you go about crafting it on BLUR?

I just wanted to make that ultraviolet sound. What inspired me was how immerseful dark R&B and electronic music is. It really encapsulates the listener into a world of sound. It makes you feel a certain way and I wanted BLUR to be like looking into a portrait and feeling a part of that world.

Who are some of your biggest musical influences, and how have they impacted the music on BLUR?

Kendrick Lamar, Joey Badass, and Tyler are my biggest influences. I didn’t actually apply their influence into this project. I just focused more on my own sound and what I wanted to hear. 

Your lyrics on BLUR touch on themes of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. Can you share some of the personal experiences that inspired these songs?

I’m glad you noticed that. I’ve seen love from different angles. Sometimes I see it as psychological attachment. Sometimes I see it as self-fulfillment. It just differs depending on the situation. I did experience a toxic relationship and that kinda inspired my outlook on these songs. I’ve also been a spectator of others relationships. When you’re on the outside looking in, you can really see how humans complicate things. Most of us are traumatized looking to feed our idea of self.    

Walk us through your creative process for BLUR. How did you approach writing and recording the songs?

I recorded all these songs in my bedroom. I usually record before I write something. I need to hear myself so I can know what I really wanna do. It’s kinda like painting. You wanna pick the colors before you apply them. 

BLUR has a range of moods and tempos, from upbeat to introspective. Can you share how you balanced these elements to create a cohesive project?

I wanted to add depth to it. I wanted to have a story. I wanted to give people something to follow. Most music is fast food right now. I wanted to make layers that fused together well.

Are there any specific instruments or production techniques that you incorporated on BLUR that you're particularly proud of?

I’m proud of the mixing and mastering. I’m told that my mixing is good but I used to think it had to be perfect. I do think the master has to be perfect though.  

Have you had a chance to perform any of the songs from BLUR live yet? What has that experience been like?

I haven’t performed anything yet. I’d love to though. I just need my clout up, I don’t even know who to reach out to for shows. 

What do you hope listeners take away from your music, and what message do you hope to convey through your lyrics and sound on BLUR?

I hope they can get lost in it. I want them to love it. For the lyrics on this project, I want people to accept vulnerability and introspection. It’s okay to open up and show people what’s in your mind. I think we need more in-depth artists anyway. 

Have you collaborated with any other artists on this EP, or are there any artists you'd like to collaborate with in the future?

I haven’t collaborated with anyone on this EP but I do wanna collaborate with more people in the future. I wanna work with Wasteey Monroe, his energy is crazy. I also wanna work with Will Cherry, he sent me a beat a few months ago. 

How do you balance promoting your music online with maintaining your privacy and personal life?

I just take it one day at a time. Can’t wait ‘til the day I don’t need a 9 to 5. 

What are your future plans for your music and creative endeavors, and where do you see your sound evolving in the future?

I think I’m gonna start rapping more than singing. This project was very melodic and I sang a lot but I wanna bring more energy into the next one. I’m dropping an EP in May. It’s just rap, no R&B. 

Finally, what's one thing you hope your fans know about you and your music after listening to BLUR?

I want them to know that I’m not an NPC and I wanna give them something good and new. I hope they’re waiting for the next release.

SoundCloud Gems - April 7th, 2023

Greetings and welcome to the third episode of our SoundCloud Gems series, where we continue to showcase the most promising and innovative underground artists in the music scene. We are excited to present another set of talented artists for you to discover and enjoy.

Our featured artists for this episode are PHREYLA, RIAH, FVTAL, YAZIDA, OLD COLLIN, BLISSOM, PK, and CYBERTRASH. These artists have a unique style and sound that has helped them stand out in the competitive world of SoundCloud. Their music has resonated with listeners around the world, and we believe that they represent some of the most promising up-and-coming artists in the industry.

At our core, our SoundCloud Gems series is dedicated to promoting and celebrating the success of emerging artists who have made a name for themselves on SoundCloud. SoundCloud has become a critical platform for musicians looking to build a fanbase and connect with their audience, and we are proud to support these artists and provide them with a platform to showcase their music to a wider audience.

Our goal with this series is to help these artists gain the recognition and exposure they deserve and to introduce our readers to some of the freshest and most exciting new music in the industry. We believe that this episode of SoundCloud Gems continues to deliver on that promise, and we are excited to see these artists continue to grow and thrive in the music industry.

PHREYLA

Phreyla is an artist we’ve had our eye on for a while. We were hooked from the first release we heard,  “#DEAD #MAN #WALKING”. Phreyla’s ability to deliver confident lyricism over experimental and futuristic production is something to behold. His song “Glare”, produced by yaego and brayam solidified his place on this list and we hope our readers love this upcoming superstar as much as we do. 

RIAH

Riah has been a staple in the underground community for quite some time. The track that brought us to her was her collaboration with arid on the song “mine”, a disco-pop anthem where she frets over someone she’s in love with but ultimately can’t have. This song introduced us to the fun, light-hearted, pop sound that riah has cultivated within the underground, carving out her own path with bouncy, elating lyrics, an appealing vocal tone, and alleviating the production

FVTAL

Fvtal has been on the scene for a few years yet has been on our radar since his collaboration run with producer and friend of Nefarious, simon m. Releases like “chapter”, “out of love”, and “hold my hand” painted a very clear picture of the soothing, retrospective artist that Fvtal could be. Then he dropped SOFARGONE with Okah! and made us realize once again what a multifaceted artist he is. Fvtal is on weekly rotation here as NS HQ and we hope he’s on your playlist as well in 2023!

YAZIDA

Yazida is a French pop artist from Paris who came on the scene with her remix of 4cf’s track “Jade”. The success of the remix propelled her to work with Jade producer, KBL, and a friend of Nefarious, 47 Negus, on a solo track. “Freak!” would debut and rocket Yazida into the underground limelight. Her airy and charming vocal tone gives the listener an easy listen to themes of self-exploration, love, closure, and honesty.

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OLD COLLIN

We first heard about Old Collin through a Niztopia stream we were able to catch on Twitch a year prior. He was showcasing his newest song at the time “instigate”, produced by slicky. From the moment we heard his voice we knew Collin was going to be big. The stress he puts on the notes he sings and the way he’s able to look inwards when delving into deeply personal topics, whilst also masterfully utilizing acoustic production, is something you don’t see every day. In contrast, we hope you listen to Collin every day!

BLISSOM

Blissom has been a backbone for the Soundcloud community forever. With the introduction of the sleepy.zone and place where artists from all over can create and post a music set they’ve been working on, collaborate on group projects such as albums and artwork, and generally have a safe space to hangout and share ideas, Blossom had already done enough. Yet her artistry shines thru time and time again. Blossom’s new project, “misaligned” is a beautiful ode to what once was and what could be. Her amazing vocal mixing and soothing, nocturnal voice is something we want everyone in 2023 to hear.

PK

PK originally started as a producer for the underground, creating multiple widely-popular throughout his time in the scene, such as “COLLECT ME” and “PINK” by riptony, “sometimes” by eleven thirteen, “wrist” by uxie, and “bldylngz” by caponeti. With over 200+ production credits within the scene, PK has recently begun releasing solo projects and they’ve been blowing us out of the water with each drop. Please check out his newest release, “medicc” which is out now! Go listen to some PK today!

CYBERTRASH

Cybertrash is a wildcard. Coming in hot with his indie breakout track “play pretend” a track that struck the ears and souls of many when it was released. Cybertrash has been on a tear ever since. We heard him first, again, through Niztopia’s music review streams on Twitch. From his expressive, yet husky vocal tone to the beautiful acoustic underscores of his production style, Cybertrash is able to seamlessly draw you into his world. Trust when we say, once you enter, you won’t want to leave.

Artist of the Month March 2023 - 4CF

Underground artist 4cf has been making waves since early 2021 with the release of his debut project POPSTAR, produced by KBL. The EP boosted the young artist into the spotlight with standout tracks like “Run” and “Jump” masterfully showcasing 4cf’s ability to effortlessly convey serious subject matter in a catchy enough way you’ll somehow end up finding yourself singing a verse in your day-to-day.

However, the track that truly put 4cf in the limelight was his final effort on POPSTAR, “Jade”. Some stars must have aligned to pair KBL’s production on this song with 4cf’s lyricism and vocals, but the song is a match made in heaven and deserves the over 1,000,000 streams it’s gained, and the numerous remixes.

4cf’s biggest quality is the replay value of his tracks. Since the release of POPSTAR, the artist has been a tear with his single releases. From the in-your-face “WTF” with a beautifully fitting funeral feature, to his newest efforts with frequent collaborator, anem0s.

After their new addition, “losemymind” with Austyn With a Y* there was no other person more fitting for March’s Artist of the Month.

What does the name 4cf originate from?

4cf comes from my previous artist’s moniker. I used to go by a.c.f. and then, around December 2020, I decided that I wanted to restart and see if I could make it as an artist from scratch without any of the support of people that knew me IRL. 

Who is 4CF as an artist? What concepts and themes do you want to convey with your music and creativity?

I think 4cf as an artist is really just me. My goal under this name is to try and stay as true to myself and my emotions as possible while making the best-sounding music I can.

I think the themes that come up most in my music have to do with whatever way I’m feeling about myself or a relationship I have with someone else at the time. Through my creativity, I hope to convey, honesty. I know that sometimes the way that I write or the way I introspect about certain topics can be immature or childish but if that’s how I’m feeling I feel like it’s important to convey that.

What cultures and experiences cultivate this persona or identity of yours?

Black American culture 100%. I grew up homeschooled for a while as well so I think that kind of isolation that I was feeling also has a lot to do with the way I present myself and aspects of the music I make.

I grew up listening to a lot of 90s, 2000s-2010s music, whether that be the RnB and rap that my family showed me like Ne-Yo, Nelly, and all those tracks produced by the Neptunes or the 2010s Electronic/Pop fusion just scrolling through YouTube in the middle of the day as a 9-year-old with unrestricted internet access (I was supposed to be doing my homework).

When I got to high school, I wasn’t being homeschooled anymore so I made a bunch of friends and they put me onto bands like My Chemical Romance and Panic! At the Disco and I realized that I really liked their energy and lyrics. Somehow I eventually found my way to Frank Ocean who became my musical idol when I was 16-17.

How has your experience in the music industry been thus far?

I wouldn’t say I’ve had a lot of industry experience so far, I’ve met with an A&R or two and they were super nice about my stuff so all in all, I’d say it’s been pretty positive. I like when people say my music is good!

Do you have an outstanding moment since you got into the music industry that makes you realize how important it is to make music like this? If so what would that be?

I think it’s always crazy to me when people tell me that a song I’ve written has gotten them through a hard time or that they relate to my lyrics in any way. Whenever I write I feel like people won’t end up paying attention but it always means the world to me when they do, and it means even more if they relate. 

What do you think personally sets you apart from the rest of your peers in the scene? What do you bring to music that you believe no one else has the ability to bring? 

I think maybe one thing that sets me apart from my peers is how slowly I work. I used to get really obsessed with finishing songs super quickly and having a frequent amount of drops but ever since “Jade”, I’ve been really conscious of the fact that I wanna make great music that pushes me and takes effort. As I work now it takes, like, 3-4 months for tracks to get past the demo stage and I try to get a lot of feedback. IDK if that is necessarily anything too unique but I’ve noticed that people in the scene work so fast and I feel insecure that I can’t necessarily keep up sometimes 

Is there any one song that you’ve made that stands out from the rest? Released or unreleased.

I just dropped a song the other week called “losemymind” which I’m using to kickstart a series of singles for the year. For me, it’s a real standout because I feel like it really shows that I don’t suck! In the past, I’ve felt super held back by my mixing and lack of production skills but growing and working with my friends over the course of 2022 enabled us to come together and make a song that I feel truly showcases the beginnings of what we have to offer as apart of the community. So, go stream that.

What people should listen to that will get them hooked?

I love listening to artists in chronological order but for the love of god I’m begging you not to listen to all of my old music, some of it really sucks.  To get HOOKED, I would recommend listening to my first EP POPSTAR that’s entirely produced by one of my best friends, KBL.

What do you believe keeps your current audience listening and why should people start listening?

I truly have no idea. I’d like to think that people start to see more of the potential that I have with every release so maybe that’s what keeps people interested. “Jade” is also pretty catchy so I know that people are definitely sticking around to hear that one at the VERY LEAST. I also wouldn’t say that people SHOULD listen to me but, I don’t know, I be making some fire sometimes so if you wanna hear some fire you know where to find it.

Who do you listen to on a regular basis?

At the moment I’ve been listening to a lot of underground rap so that’s artists like Tana, Jaydes, BK the Rula, etc. No matter how many months it’s been though I always go back and listen to Coldplay and it feels like brand new every time, I love their first album so mother***** much it’s, like, actually crazy.

I mentioned Frank Ocean before and he’ll always be one of my favorite artists but I don’t listen to him as much these days (I’ve listened to blonde probably over 200+ times in full). For me, whatever music I’m listening to at the time I take as a challenge, so then I go try and see if I can make something in the style for fun. I also listen to a lot of my friends’ music all the time, but I got like a million people that I’m friends with who also inspire me to make more music.

Are these the same people who encourage your sound? Or are there other factors that come into play?

Definitely! I see Music as a learning experience every time I listen. Anytime I hear something that I like, I try to break down how it sounds within the song, or if I like the way a certain lyric is formatted I think about how I can incorporate that into my writing style to become a more rounded and skilled artist.

What do you think is the most important aspect of music as a concept, personally and objectively?

Personally, I think the most important aspect of music for me is its execution. The way in which the message, sound, emotion, or whatever is conveyed is extremely important to me because there are so many ways to get the point across, but if it’s not interesting, no one is going to connect with it.

I don’t think anything can be objective when talking about the concept of an art form, but I think the expression is also very important. Being able to get the release of channeling your emotions into something beyond just saying it is why music feels so good.

Lastly, what advice or experiences would you like to share with your peers or anyone else who is up and coming in this industry?

The one piece of advice I can give is, to let yourself feel your emotions as they are sometimes. I think sometimes we have a tendency to try and rationalize or downplay how we’re feeling because we don’t feel like it’s valid but being honest with yourself about how you feel really makes things so much easier in the long run.

Also, is there anything you'd like for us to promote with our audience?

STREAM LOSEMYMIND BY 4CF PROD AUSTYN WITH A Y AND ANEM0S ON ALL PLATFORMS (please)

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Cadeem LaMarr

Cadeem LaMarr is a notable rapper hailing from Maryland, whose music is making an impact on the underground music scene in the DMV region. In our interview with Cadeem, we delved into his experience as an underground artist, his creative process, and his most recent projects, including his album "REFLECT" and his newest album, "COVET", as well as his latest single, "Too Far Gone".

During the interview, Cadeem provided us with insightful commentary on the challenges he has encountered as an underground artist. He spoke about the importance of building a community of like-minded artists and fans who support each other and facilitate artistic growth.

Cadeem's creative process is one that is deeply introspective and personal, as he draws inspiration from his life experiences to craft lyrics that resonate with his audience. He stressed the importance of authenticity in one's artistic expression and remaining true to oneself.

We also discussed Cadeem's album "REFLECT", a poignant and introspective project that explores themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. The album showcases Cadeem's lyrical prowess and artistry, solidifying his place in the underground rap scene.

Cadeem's latest album, "COVET", continues his artistic journey, with themes exploring ambition, desire, and the pursuit of success. His newest single, "Too Far Gone", tackles the subject of addiction with raw honesty and vulnerability, showcasing his ability to connect with his listeners on a deep and personal level.

During the interview, Cadeem also spoke about his collaborations with fellow underground artists LIA, Martin J. Ballou, xxpetejames, and Vlaad, highlighting the importance of collaboration and the exchange of creative ideas. Overall, our interview with Cadeem LaMarr provided an insightful glimpse into the world of underground rap and the creative process of an up-and-coming artist.

As an emerging artist, tell us about your experience, can you talk about the challenges you've faced in building your career, and how you've navigated those challenges?

Man, I don't even know how to answer this fr! All I know is when I get knocked down I get back up like its Creed 2.

Tell us about your experience as a DMV artist what is the underground music scene like, where would you say his a hub to meet and network with emerging artists, and who are some of the best artists coming up right now? 

The scene feels like its in an interesting transformation period post pandemic. Idk where its really headed and if I’m being real, I really just mind my business, stay out of the politics, hang out with my chickens and just work to make the best shit I can come up with with my people. I really dont go out of my way to network either. I just be running into people in whole foods and shit like that. I got a long list of people that are great artist but for the sake of character limits I’m gonna say everyone in 3Side, Malik Elijah, Eyas, Rilla Force, Bailey Straughn, Kente, Martin Ballou man I can keep GOING.

Can you talk about your creative process when it comes to writing and producing music, particularly as an underground artist?

First things first, go outside and have a social/family life, stare at clouds. Next, I’d say that being a music fan and music nerd are important and different. I always listen to familiar and unfamiliar music first as a fan then dissect it as an artist to see how it “works”. However, when I make music I kinda go into a dissociative/autopilot like state. Majority of what I finish I have to revisit cuz I tend to confuse myself. I  actually wish I could be more intentional with it but hey whatayagonnado.

Your debut album "Reflect" was released in 2019, and your latest album "COVET" was released in 2020. Talk to us about the creative process around the album including what inspired them, what was it like putting both together, and who did you work with on production?

REFLECT, thats my baby! This project was me trying to prove to myself I could make a body of work that felt to some degree time resistant. FUN FACT - “lie” is the first song I put vocals on actually. Also, i think people sleep on “Stuck”, that's my favorite, everyone did their THING.

COVET, if I’m being honest, was a coping mechanism for the pandemic. That album to me is like the ending of Titanic when everybody is dying but the band is still playing cuz that’s all they know how to do.

How have these projects helped to establish your sound and build your fanbase?

I know what I like and don’t like more. It was like dating around fr. I have a great idea of my direction now. Can’t wait.

You’ve worked with  LIA, Martin J. Ballou, xxpetejames, and Vlaad. How do these collaborations come about, and how do they contribute to building your network as an artist?

I never force a collab. Most of the time, I’m just a fan of people first, then we become friends and then a collab may or may not happen. If it feels forced I’ll just be like let’s grab food or something lol. I do like working with/watching other people work though because 9/10 you will learn something new to add to your process.

Tell us about your newest song Too Far Gone? 

MAN! I’ve never had a song come so easy and so hard. This was one of the first tracks I made after getting through a beat block. I finished the whole thing from idea to recording to rough mix in like 3 hours (ususally takes me months). I was lowkey rushing cuz I think I had to go to a party or something and I somehow didn’t save a bunch of the edits I made. The file ended up corrupted and the released version is actually the demo. 

As an underground artist, how do you go about promoting your music and building your fanbase?

I’m still working on the best methods fr. The landscape of social media, grassroots promo etc changes so often it gives me a headache, idk what theyre doin over there. My only plan right now is to lock in with my talented ass friends to make amazing and undeniable art.

Can you talk about any upcoming projects or collaborations you have in the works, and how these will contribute to building your career as an artist?

I have been stockpiling a bunch of new music thats more dance focused. Some songs have me singing and some I barely say anything at all.  I can’t wait to release them though, just gotta make sure my house is in order. Yall gonna get this versatility fr.

What message do you hope to convey to listeners through your music, particularly as an emerging, underground artist?

Take risks, have fun and be a good person.

Can you talk about any challenges or setbacks you've faced in your career so far, and how you've learned from these experiences?

BACKUP. YOUR. DATA. OFTEN.

What advice do you have for other emerging artists who are trying to build their careers in the music industry?

Lock in with a solid group of like minded individuals who push each other in their crafts, check that ego at the door, make the best art possible and don’t subscribe to the mindset that their isn't enough opportunity to go around.

Finally, what are your long-term goals as an artist, and how do you plan to achieve them?

For me, music gave me independence, a sense of direction, and a soundtrack to pivotal life experiences. My goal is to give those same things to as many people  as possible. I want music to continue to allow me to take myself and loved ones around the world and have amazing experiences. Then when I’m like 70 and got the BAG I wanna be a high school history and science teacher cuz I could get the youth hip to game and not care about getting fired.

Any last words?

Avoid stress the way Uncle Sam avoids reparations.

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Nefarious Supply Radio - Episode 001

Welcome to Nefarious Supply Radio, a curated playlist featuring underground artists from a diverse range of genres. Each episode showcases a different artist who takes us on a journey through their favorite tracks, providing insights into their creative process and sharing the music that inspires them.

At Nefarious Supply, we believe that underground artists deserve to be heard and celebrated. The music industry can often be exclusive and unwelcoming to up-and-coming talent, which is why we've created this platform to give these artists a chance to showcase their work to a wider audience. Our goal is to support emerging artists and provide a space for music lovers to discover new talent.

Our first episode features the talented music producer StashtheWave, who hails from Boston, Massachusetts. StashtheWave has released two projects - "Cruise Control" in 2020 and "To Whom Much Is Given" in 2022. The latter features guest appearances from Donald Grunge, Jiles, Qwan? Arold, Clyde Black & Notebook P.

StashtheWave's curated playlist for "Nefarious Supply Radio" features music from a variety of artists, including Jordan Ward featuring Joony, Van Buren Records, Notebook P and Clyde Black, Destin Conrad, Luke Bar$, Meech, and more. When creating this playlist, StashtheWave selected all the songs he was listening to during the creation of his new project, "4 The Lovers" and some of the songs featured on the playlist were even sampled for the new project.

We're thrilled to have StashtheWave kick off our first episode and can't wait for you to experience his unique and captivating playlist. So sit back, relax, and let the music take you on a journey through the mind of this talented artist. And be sure to check out his new project "4 The Lovers," Stay tuned for more episodes of Nefarious Supply Radio featuring the best underground artists curating the best music globally.

Can you describe the process of selecting the songs for for the  playlist, and how did you decide which songs would best compliment your new project "4 The Lovers"?

I basically just selected all of the songs I was listening to during the time of creating the idea of what I wanted the beat tape to feel and sound like. Some of the songs I selected were records I actually sampled for 4TL as well. 

Were there any particular underground or independent artists that you discovered through curating your playlist, and how did those discoveries influence the direction of your new project?

So I‘ve known about Jordan Ward for a bit, mainly because of his song ‘lil baby crush,’ but I didn’t really listen to his music that much until his debut ‘FORWARD.’ I already love that album and have it in my top for the year so far, so he definitely influenced this playlist’s curation to an extent. As far as influence for ‘4 THE LOVERS,’ I was actually mainly drawing inspiration from a playlist that someone had made me over a year ago which contained a lot of older R&B and soul with some newer sounds as well. 

How did you balance your own personal taste and style with the desire to showcase a diverse range of artists and genres through your playlist and new project?

There was a certain feeling I was trying to capture with this tape, both sonically and lyrically, and I wanted to be able to do it all on my own so that it was 100% me and my ideas. Balancing everything out wasn’t too difficult for me, from finding which vocals I wanted to use to figuring how I was gonna flip the samples and which vocals to put over certain beats, it all really came second nature to me. The most important part was to make something new from familiar sounds and feelings.

Can you talk about how you see your new project "4 The Lovers" fitting into the larger landscape of underground and independent music, and what sets your project apart from other releases in this space?

I think right now, people really want soul and substance out of music again so I really tried to make this my most personal and soulful output yet. And I think what really sets ‘4 THE LOVERS’ apart from anything like it is the samples and sounds that I used. They all sound familiar if you listen to a lot of R&B or soul music, but I don’t think anybody has really touched them. 

Looking to the future, what are your goals and aspirations for your music career, and how do you see your playlist curation and your new project contributing to those goals?

Curation in general is something I believe I’m starting to get a real knack for, so in the future I’d love to just work with artists on a mutual collaborative level where they can trust me to not only make the production for their projects but to really curate the idea and put it all together with them. 

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WesWill - The Game Is The Game

WesWill, the talented underground artist, has been making waves in the music industry since he first got on our radar with his new project at the time "Summer Time Slaps, Volume 1" in 2018. His unique sound and storytelling skills have earned him a dedicated fanbase. WesWill's latest project, "The Game Is The Game," is a testament to his growth as an artist. The album features five tracks, each with its distinct sound and message. "Wrong One" featuring Will Cherry and FifGawd, "Chad and Screw," and "Moon Roof Chronicles" featuring TrapthonJerm are the standout tracks on the album.

"Wrong One" is a mellow track that explores the difficulties of finding the right partner. WesWill's introspective lyrics and Will Cherry and FifGawd's smooth vocals complement each other perfectly, making it a fan favorite. "Chad and Screw" pays homage to two influential figures of the underground music scene, Chad Butler and DJ Screw. The track has a high-energy beat and features WesWill's signature flow, making it a standout on the album. "Moon Roof Chronicles" is a reflective track that explores WesWill's growth as an artist and a person. TrapthonJerm's haunting vocals complement WesWill's introspective lyrics, making it a standout on the album.

The success of "The Game Is The Game" can be attributed to WesWill's exceptional talent and dedication to his craft. His unique sound and storytelling skills set him apart from other artists in the underground music scene. WesWill effortlessly blends various genres such as hip-hop and R&B, creating a sound that is entirely his own.

WesWill's journey as an artist has been marked by his dedication to his craft and his unique sound. His ability to blend various genres and his introspective lyrics have earned him a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim. With the release of "The Game Is The Game," WesWill has cemented his place as one of the most exciting underground artists in the music industry.

In our upcoming interview with WesWill, we aim to gain more insights into his creative process and the inspiration behind "The Game Is The Game." We will also discuss his plans for the future and how he plans to continue growing as an artist. We look forward to gaining more insights into the success of "The Game Is The Game" and WesWill's journey as an artist

Congratulations on your new project "The Game Is The Game." How has the response been so far from your fans and the industry? Can you share any memorable feedback you've received?

Thank you so much! The response has been overwhelming, to say the least. Everybody has been receptive and eager to share their favorite tracks and lyrics. I've had quite a few fans and industry veterans tell me that I "didn't miss," which is essential to me because I create every song with intention and don't put filler tracks on any of my projects. The most memorable feedback I've received is the fans telling me they feel this is an instant classic and will carry into the summer. We are in a time where music can last a week, so to hear people adamantly express to me that this collection of songs will travel with them into a different season is amazing, and I am so humbled.

The title of your project, "The Game Is The Game" has a deep meaning. Can you elaborate on the message behind it and how it relates to your music and personal experiences?

The EP title is a quote I pulled from the HBO series "The Wire." It signifies that everything I'm discussing and going through is familiar. Life has ups and downs that we all experience, but that's inevitable, and we have to keep pushing. It's also a valid sports analogy. The players may change, and the personnel may switch up, but regardless, you have to go out and play the same game that the ones before you played. Avon Barksdale, played by Wood Harris, was talking to a fellow inmate and told him, "Some things never change; the game is the game." 

Your project features collaborations with other underground artists. How did you approach the creative process when working with these artists, and how did their contributions influence the overall sound of the project?

On this project, I collaborated with Will Cherry, TrapathonJerm, and FifGawd. I keep the features to a minimum on my projects because I never want my albums to feel like a compilation. However, each artist on this EP brought something special that ties all the sounds together. Fif and Trap provided a nostalgic feel to the records they were featured on. I wanted their dialogue to feel like how Diddy would speak on tracks back in the 90s. Talking that talk and taking the track out the right way. The dark sub bass and bounce you hear on Young OG, BIA, and Wrong One is brought to you courtesy of Will Cherry. He assisted on 3 out of the 5 records with production and vocals and came in clutch. He’s a talented guy, and I am thankful he gave the project that extra thump it was missing. Kito, Hype Alexander, and Tavaras Jordan assisted with production as well. They did a spectacular job of bringing the songs to life and giving me that soulful feel I desired. 

Can you take us through your creative process in putting this project together? From conceptualization to writing and recording, what was your approach and how did you decide on the direction of the project?

When putting together this project, I created a collection of songs to set the tone for the year and serve as the follow-up of my 2020 EP, “3 Point Play.” I felt this could be a 2023 “pre-season warm-up,” but I would roll it out and treat it as a full-length album. The calm before the storm, if you will. We took the title “The Game Is The Game” and put together a marketing rollout heavily influenced by sports. Leading up to the drop, I put together an NBA-style press release to kick it off, a live press conference to announce the release date, a Sportscenter Top 10 countdown of song snippets, social media trading cards to reveal each producer on the EP, and more to build hype and anticipation.

Regarding the music, I only had “Moonroof”, and “Young OG” recorded before I tapped Will Cherry for assistance. From there, we crafted the other 3 records together. Sonically, my goal was to record and release a body of work that was an impactful 5 song status update with a big sound, and we accomplished that.

Your music has a unique sound and style. How did you develop your sound, and who are some of your musical influences?

Thank you! What makes my sound unique is that there is a nostalgic element to it, yet, it doesn't feel dated. I take bits and pieces from different regions and eras and mix them all into one sound I made. I read a quote from Dj Quik where he said, "make something that feels familiar but has never quite been heard before." I took those words and ran with them. I learned the double time flow from playing the snare and mimicking the drum patterns with my raps. Once I got hip to Bone and Do or Die, I applied more of a melodic spin to it. My mom played 70's, 80's, and 90's R&B around the house, so studying those artists helped me tremendously with songwriting and melodies. Plus, she had me in the church choir as a kid, so I found my love of singing through that. These musical memories and experiences helped shape the sound you hear today. My main influences are Babyface, Organized Noize, Outkast, Brandy, Jason Weaver, SWV, Parliament, UGK, Curtis Mayfield, and Missy Elliot.

Your previous work has been well-received by your audience. How do you think you have grown and evolved as an artist since your first release, and how does "The Game Is The Game" showcase that growth?

This latest body of work sounds like a more grown and refined version of previous works. My pen game is more potent, my ear for beats has leveled up, my singing has improved, and I am not rapping just for the sake of rapping. My words are heavier because there is more life experience behind them. Previously, I wrote as an artist trying to figure out my path. I now speak as an artist who knows his lane and confidently dominates. I’m speaking on my business acumen, relationship issues, and family life, all from the vantage point of a man in his late 20s.

Can you tell us about any challenges you faced while creating this project, and how did you overcome them? Were there any moments when you felt stuck or unsure of your direction, and how did you push through?

The most significant hurdle I faced while creating this work was deciding which records to use and which ones to leave off. I make music at a high clip, which can be a blessing and a curse. My team and I have our favorites, but chopping it down to a cohesive body of work that accurately tells the story we want can be tricky! Whenever I am in this situation, I sit with my team, talk through each song we might be on the fence about, and build a case as to why it does or does not need to be on this specific body of work. We always come out on the other side confident that the right decision was made. 

Your project has a short tracklist with only five songs. Can you tell us about the reasoning behind this choice, and can we expect a full-length project in the future?

The short track listing is me testing out a different method of music releases this year. Instead of dropping one lengthy project during the summer, I am dropping smaller projects every quarter. That's the beauty of being independent; we can try different methods and release schedules to gather data to see what works and what doesn't. My summer project will be more than 5 songs, though. My fans wait all year for that, and I don't want to short-change them.

Your music has a strong visual aesthetic. Can you tell us about the importance of visual art and branding in the music industry, and how you work to create a cohesive image for your brand?

Visual art and branding have always been essential aspects of my career. I have a 4-year degree in Marketing, and I apply that knowledge to my artistry at every opportunity. I often stress to my peers that branding and visuals are just as, if not more, important than the music itself. With so many artists and musicians competing for the listener’s time and attention, your visuals can be the difference between a click or a skip on your music! You want to give yourself the best chance to compete and stand out. To create a cohesive image, I make sure I am constantly using many of the same themes and imagery in my music and content. My favorite example is how Larry June repeatedly utilizes the organic and healthy lifestyle branding angle to make those things synonymous with him and his artistry. I study his blueprint a lot from a marketing standpoint for sure. 

As an independent artist, what advice would you give to others who are just starting out in the industry, and what lessons have you learned along the way?

The advice I would give to those starting out would be to make sure you are constantly telling your story through your artistry. Doing that will attract your desired audience and create momentum for yourself and your brand. Also, be honest and ask yourself what you want from your career. The answer you come up with will help guide your decisions and assist you in navigating this industry. Along my journey, I have learned that there are so many different ways to monetize your art. I love writing music, so I tapped into the sync licensing lane because it perfectly fit me. You don’t have to accumulate millions of streams to make money from music. I also learned that you must relentlessly and shamelessly promote your work wherever possible. Don’t be the artist that is “too cool” to hop on TikTok to spread your music. It is simply a tool that can expand your fan base and expose you to a new audience.

Your music has gained a strong following in the underground hip hop scene. Can you tell us about your plans to expand your reach and grow your fan base?

I am so thankful for the fan base I have accumulated over the years because they truly help keep me going! The plan to expand is simple; be more aggressive yet tactful, with content posting and creation, in addition to heavier traveling and collaborations with other artists. Everything is mapped out; I have to continue to execute.

Can you tell us about any upcoming shows or performances, and what can we expect from a WesWill live performance?

What you can expect from a WesWill performance is a great time, good laughs but more importantly, an experience you won’t get anywhere else. I literally talk to the audience like we’re family. I crack jokes, interact with the people between songs, and bring great energy to whatever stage I am on. I am putting together a mini tour with my top 5 streaming cities, so I will post those dates when we lock them in! 

Lastly, what can we expect from WesWill in the future, both musically and creatively? Are there any collaborations or new projects in the works that you can share with us?

I have a few more bodies of work that I will be dropping this year. Of course, I have the annual summer project that my fans always look forward to. Also, I am expanding my pen game and writing for others. I have been sending in demos for other artists, and a couple of those have been recorded and set to release this year! I’m also getting deeper into sync licensing, so expect to hear me in some of your favorite TV shows.

Any last words? 

I want to thank you guys for granting me this interview and for the work you do on behalf of underground artists as a whole. You all provide information and a platform that is essential for us creators. Next, I want to shout out to my engineer, Will Cohen. He has my music sounding better than ever and worked very hard on this project. Thank you to Braxton and joVonte for the beautiful cover. Lastly, I would like to thank the listeners, supporters, and anybody that clicked on this article to see what I had to say. To all artists, continue being great; your time is coming. Much love!

Thorgan - Beauty Of Chaos

Introducing Thorgan, the talented and enigmatic underground musical artist who has recently released his latest music project, Beauty Of Chaos. Following the success of his debut album, TENEBRIS, which garnered over 3 million total streams, Thorgan has been steadily building a devoted following with his unique blend of Alternative R&B, rock, and electronic music.

Beauty Of Chaos is the first part of Thorgan's second studio album, which is set to be unveiled in four different chapters throughout 2023. The album showcases Thorgan's maturation as an artist, with a dark and melancholic collection of songs that break the barriers of traditional music. With its non-traditional sounds and eclectic mix of genres, the album creates a sonically unique and compelling experience for listeners.

Thorgan's music is characterized by his honest and introspective lyrics, which explore themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. His poetic and evocative words are brought to life by his soulful and haunting vocals, which have drawn comparisons to the likes of Frank Ocean and James Blake.

As Thorgan continues to release new music throughout 2023, he is sure to captivate even more fans and leave an indelible mark on the music world. With Beauty Of Chaos, Thorgan has once again proven himself to be a visionary and boundary-pushing artist, and his future releases are eagerly anticipated by fans and critics alike.

Thorgan welcome to Nefarious Supply! To get this interview started tell us about yourself who is Thorgan? 

Hey! Thank you for giving me the opportunity to express myself! I am an upcoming Dark Alternative R&B/Pop artist, producer and songwriter currently living in south of France. I would describe my style as Dark, Romantic and Melancholic.

Can you tell us about any particular artists or musicians who have influenced your music and style?

It all started around 2016, when I discovered the new wave of dark R&B that emerged from Toronto, artists like The Weeknd, J Soul, and Partynextdoor created music I could finally resonate with on a new level, something I had never heard before.

How do you see yourself fitting into the current music landscape, and what do you hope to bring to the industry?

I feel like I am bringing something new to the table, doing things In a different way, and I’m not afraid to do so. I hope I can create a new movement in this industry and show that creativity and imagination has no limits once you break the barriers.

Your debut album, TENEBRIS, accumulated over 3 million total streams. How did you approach creating your second album, Beauty of Chaos, after experiencing this level of success?

Tenebris was a definitely a crazy journey… it was my first attempt at creating a story that reflected what was going through my mind at the time, I could finally transform my thoughts and emotions into sound, while taking into consideration what the world was going through. Before starting  Beauty of Chaos, I needed some time to experience more life, work with new people, and grown as an artist, and after creating over two thousand demo’s in the last year and a half, working with new people who share my vision while maintaining their own set of skills, I think I’m at a point where I can finally translate my vision into the music exactly as it flows through my head.

The album features a range of genres, including Alternative R&B, rock, and electronic music. Can you tell us about how you went about blending these genres together to create the unique sound of Beauty of Chaos?

In my opinion, a lot of artists restrain themselves to a single genre, and that is the way the industry is set up… I listen to a huge variety of music anywhere from Neo Soul to classical and I always wonder why more of these sounds aren’t blended together, because when they do, it creates something new and beautiful for Innocence for example, we decided to blend Hard Metal sonorities with R&B, once you stop limiting yourself to a traditional sound, you can do a lot more, I want people to remember the song, not the genre.

The album is being released in four different chapters throughout 2023. Can you tell us about the decision to release the album in this way, and how each chapter will differ from the last?

After Tenebris, a lot of songs got left in the dark, songs that meant a lot to me. For beauty of Chaos I want every track to sink in, and give the listener the time to process each part. Every Chapter will have its own role in creating the full story, with different moods, sounds and emotions.

The album has a very introspective and personal feel to it. Can you tell us about the emotions and experiences that inspired the songs on the album?

Of course this album is from the deepest parts of my soul, but it isn’t only about me. It’s about what all of us go through, the hardships the heartbreak, and when everything is dark, there is always a way to find the beauty in it.

This album features a guest appearance from Jordyne. Can you tell us about how you collaborated with them, and how their contributions shaped the final product? In addition, who was on the production team for the project. 

I have always admired Jordyne for his artistry and unique sound, I always wanted us to collaborate but, it was never the right song, however when innocence was created Jordyne seemed like the perfect fit, his verse was exactly what the song was missing. I think we were both a little taken out of our comfort zones with the fast bpm and rock feel but to me , in order to innovate you can never be too comfortable. I teamed up with metal producer Abare for this song and we decided to incorporate a lot of live instruments, something I had never done before,. We really wanted to take things to the next level.

The album features a lot of non-traditional sounds and instruments. Can you tell us about the process of incorporating these elements into your music, and how you ensure that they work together to create a cohesive album?

To me, it’s all about finding the perfect balance, I wanted every song to be unique and have its own identity. Abare And I would spend nights on zoom calls trying to find ideas, and to create something different. We really wanted to break the barrier of R&B and incorporate risky sounds, I don’t want to create the same song over and over again, and the traditional sound of alternative R&B no longer resonated with me, we really wanted to spice things up. When I listen to an album I want to be taken places, and be able to listen to different types of music from the same artist. I feel like a complete album has to have songs that match every mood and has to be a rollercoaster. To constantly keep the listener absorbed.

The album has a very cinematic feel to it. Can you tell us about any particular films or visual mediums that influenced the sound of the album?

When I create, I always need visual stimulation, why limit yourself to your ears when your eyes have so much to offer ? I would say my best songs have always been created after watching a movie that really moved me, I created Die For you after watching Shindler’s list. I like the epic side of things, and that’s exactly what film score music does to me. That’s the sound that makes me feel like a movie character.

You've described the album as a dark and melancholic collection of songs. Can you tell us about the process of creating a mood and atmosphere in your music, and how you achieve this with your lyrics, vocals, and instrumentation?

I think that no matter the beat, or vibes the songs give out, there has to be hidden layers and a common thread. To me creating darkness comes naturally, when I get on the keyboard that’s just what flows. If the beat sounds joyful I want the lyrics to have the saddest hidden meaning.

Can you tell us about a specific moment or experience that inspired one of the songs on the album, and how you transformed that into a musical composition?

It’s difficult to state one specific moment. For me, a song is usually born as a result of many accumulating experiences, leading up to me being in a certain zone or mindset. I would say the transformation comes naturally, if I have lived through a series of certain events recently, that’s what’s going to translate into the track. 

The album is part of your overall artistic vision. Can you tell us about the vision you have for your music, and how Beauty of Chaos fits into that?

An overall artistic vision is difficult to pinpoint, as an artist I feel like I’m always growing, and the overall vision is in a constant evolution. But, I would say my work is about exploring emotions and sense of being & the dark that lies within. 

You've built a dedicated fanbase over the past few years. How do you balance creating music that resonates with your fans while also pushing yourself artistically?

The fans are what keep me going, they motivate me to always be better and to push myself further, and to always bring something new to the table. I think creating music that really resonates with myself, always has the potential to resonate just as much with others. 

The album features a range of vocal styles and techniques. How do you approach incorporating these different vocal elements into your songs, and how do you decide which techniques to use for each song?

I started off in a boy choir so originally I am classically trained, in my younger teen years I then joined a rock band as the lead singer, I now incorporate the different techniques and melodies I learned through my lifetime experiences, every song needs it’s own identity, and it gives me much more freedom melody wise and with the vocal range. Which lets me adapt the voice to any Instrumental.

Lastly, what do you hope listeners take away from Beauty of Chaos, and how do you hope your music impacts your audience?

I hope the listeners can take my message and  can resonate with the songs in they’r own way. No matter what each individual is going through I hope that they can find the beauty amidst all the chaos because it’s always there, you just need to search for it and find it in your own way. Create your own vision, and be your own character in my story, and in your own story.

This article was written with the assistance of ChatGPT, a large language model developed by OpenAI.

5 Effective Ways for Artists to Stay Inspired Creatively

As an artist, staying inspired creatively can be a challenging task. Whether you are a musician, a painter, a writer, or any other type of artist, finding new sources of inspiration and motivation is crucial for maintaining a productive and fulfilling artistic practice. In this article, we will explore some of the most effective ways that artists can stay inspired creatively, from seeking out new experiences to embracing failure and experimentation.

Seek Out New Experiences

One of the most effective ways to stay inspired creatively is to seek out new experiences. As an artist, it's important to expose yourself to new and unfamiliar stimuli, challenge your preconceived notions, and push yourself out of your comfort zone.

For musicians, this might involve attending concerts or music festivals, collaborating with other artists, or experimenting with new instruments or production techniques. For visual artists, this might involve visiting museums and galleries, attending art shows, or experimenting with new mediums or techniques. Regardless of your medium, seeking out new experiences can help you gain fresh perspectives and find new sources of inspiration.

Embrace Failure and Experimentation

Another important aspect of staying inspired creatively is to embrace failure and experimentation. It can be tempting to stick to what is familiar and comfortable, but doing so can quickly lead to stagnation and creative block. Instead, allow yourself to take risks and try new things, even if they do not work out as you had hoped.

For musicians, this might involve writing songs in new styles or genres, experimenting with unconventional chord progressions, or incorporating unexpected elements into your music. For visual artists, this might involve trying new techniques or mediums, experimenting with unconventional materials, or pushing the boundaries of your chosen medium. By embracing failure and experimentation, you can free yourself from creative constraints and open yourself up to new possibilities.

Collaborate with Other Artists

Collaboration can be an incredibly effective way to stay inspired creatively. Working with other artists can help you gain new perspectives and approaches to your work, as well as providing a source of motivation and accountability. Collaborating can also help you develop new skills and techniques, as well as helping you build new relationships and networks within your artistic community.

For musicians, collaboration might involve writing and performing with other musicians, producing tracks for other artists, or collaborating with visual artists to create music videos or album art. For visual artists, collaboration might involve working with other artists on joint exhibitions, collaborating with writers or poets on illustrated books or graphic novels, or working with musicians to create album art or stage designs. Regardless of your medium, collaboration can be a powerful tool for staying inspired and motivated.

Take Breaks and Practice Self-Care

While it is important to stay motivated and productive as an artist, it is equally important to take breaks and practice self-care. Burnout and creative block can quickly set in if you do not take time to rest and recharge. This might involve taking a day off to do something fun and relaxing, engaging in activities outside of your artistic practice, or simply taking a break from social media and other distractions.

Taking care of your physical and mental health is also crucial for maintaining a productive and fulfilling artistic practice. This might involve getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and practicing mindfulness or meditation. By taking care of yourself, you can ensure that you have the energy and focus to stay inspired and motivated over the long term.

Stay Connected to Your Community

Finally, staying connected to your artistic community can be a powerful source of inspiration and motivation. This might involve attending events and shows, participating in online forums and social media groups, or joining artist collectives and organizations. By staying connected to your community, you can gain new insights and perspectives on your work, receive support and encouragement, and stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments

This article was written with the assistance of ChatGPT, a large language model developed by OpenAI.

Autmn Rains - You Know I Can’t Stay

Autumn Rains is a rising underground musical artist whose career trajectory is on the upswing, thanks to her exceptional songwriting, unique vocal style, and soulful delivery. Her impressive body of work includes several acclaimed albums, including "Run2u" and "Safehouse," which have earned her a dedicated fanbase.

Most recently, Autumn Rains released her newest album, "You Know I Can't Stay," which features eight tracks that showcase her artistic growth and emotional depth. The album is a testament to her artistry and ability to craft deeply personal and moving music that resonates with listeners.

The album's standout tracks include "Without You," "Stay," and "Running Away," which highlight her vocal versatility and her ability to convey raw emotions with power and nuance. The production on the album is also noteworthy, with contributions from talented producers such as DV$TPH, Tokiowahl, and Cyclope Beatz, who bring a fresh and innovative approach to Autumn Rains' sound.

Autumn Rains' music has a way of drawing in listeners and creating a connection that is both personal and universal. Her lyrics are relatable, and her voice conveys a sense of vulnerability that invites listeners to share in her experiences. Her ability to capture the complexities of human emotions is what sets her apart and makes her a standout in the underground music scene.

Overall, Autumn Rains is an artist to watch, and her latest album, "You Know I Can't Stay," is a testament to her creative prowess and her commitment to delivering honest and impactful music. She is poised to take the music world and establish herself as a force to be reckoned with in the industry.

Autmn welcome back to Nefarious Supply. To date this is our third feature with you and we are more than excited to have you back on. To get this interview started give us a brief update on what’s new with you, how was 2022 for you and how has the new year been so far?

Thank you so much for having me back! I appreciate how much Nefarious Supply has supported me since my very first EP a couple years ago now. I went into 2022 with the intention of having music out towards the beginning of the year, however, I experienced some personal setbacks last year which unfortunately delayed my music until the end of the year. When I reflect now, it probably worked out best because I wouldn’t have been able to deliver the music that came out. The new year has started off good I think because I am more open to riding the waves of life now. 

Since our last interview, what are some things you’ve learned about yourself, the overall industry, and what is a big goal you have for yourself for 2023? 

I’ve learnt that I actually operate better when I take my time and avoid rushing the music processes. I think it’s really easy to get caught up in feeling behind in the music industry because there’s always so much happening. I’ve come to realize that everyone’s timing is different depending on their own path. Sometimes things are just meant to take time and being frustrated only hinders your own progress. For me personally, you can’t help but always feel you aren't doing enough in the industry. I feel I've shifted my mindset in what success looks like to me now. I also learnt to take better care of myself including my physical and mental health. Giving myself permission to take breaks without feeling guilty has helped me with being able to sustain all the things I want to do as this career is a long game. I want to start working on some of my own production this year and I’m looking forward to exploring this, even if I don’t end up producing for myself I think it will expand my creative process either way. 

So let’s get into your new project You Know, I Can’t Stay. Walk us through the project including the meaning behind the name, what inspired the overall project, and what was the creative process like putting it together? 

With all of my projects I usually try to remain open to what I am being guided to do and what the body of work wants to be named. A lot of the time the projects are about my own life and what I am experiencing. I don’t intentionally plan to do this though it’s almost like the theme comes to me, I make the songs, put the whole thing together and then usually leading up to the release is when I actually feel I go through those situations in my life. It’s hard to experience this but I know it’s needed. It’s like I have to feel the whole thing myself before it’s shared with the world. 

With You Know, I Can’t Stay, I remember going on a trip to the snow (which is where I recorded some of the Spotify canvas videos just for random content) and on the way back I was thinking about how sometimes we feel obligated to be in relationships that don’t benefit us and in order to grow sometimes we have to leave even though we don’t want to. I was experiencing this with general relationships in my life lately. And the name “You Know, I Can’t Stay” just felt right. As soon as I wrote it down in that way I knew that was it. I usually structure my projects intentionally to tell a story through the track list order and this one was no different. And so with that theme in mind I decided to start with the intro “Different” to set the scene which shares that the person feels there are underlying issues within the relationship. Though after that it’s almost like we're going back in time as I am now beginning to tell the story where two people are starting their relationship and so “I Just Want You” is the first official record to start the story. “Cartier” is where the good vibes are continuing. With “LA” the person is basically saying they see the potential in the relationship and being vulnerable about this. “Meeting in my Bedroom” is kind of self explanatory. “Last One” is where the arguments are starting to begin and they’re questioning the status of the relationship. “Responsible” is the ultimate end where they’re describing what the other person has been doing to them. As we get towards the end of the project with “Change” as the outro we learn that after everything, although the person wants to stay, they can’t because life is pulling them in another direction. It then loops back around to “Different” seamlessly. 

In terms of the creative process, I had been sitting on the second last song “Responsible” for over a year though it was unfinished. I wasn’t sure if I was going to use it initially. Lxndxnave helped me a lot with the writing this time around and there were a few of his random demos that I ended up recording and we built on from there to align with the theme. We were really focused on having all of the beats work seamlessly together production wise, to the point where you don’t know where each song begins and ends. I was initially trying to make songs with a faster BPM to try something different though I felt it wasn’t me so I scratched a lot of them. I think we managed to get a balance of stepping up the craft while keeping it to what people are used to hearing from me. 

How was the creative process different for this new album vs Safehouse? 

With Safehouse a lot of the records we started, were finished and added to the project. This process was quite different. I recorded a lot more demo’s of full songs that didn’t end up making the project. We were also in a different space during the recording process so I think this was quite challenging because I had to push myself beyond my usual comfort zone. A lot of the demos were scratched as some of the recordings weren’t up to our usual standard because of the environment. I feel like I questioned myself more this time around as I felt some underlying pressure to raise the standard as Safehouse did really well. I didn’t feel as much pressure with Safehouse because I was still getting my name out there and experimenting with the sound. Despite the challenges I am happy with how it ended up coming together. 

Who was the production team behind You Know, I Can’t Stay? 

Lxndxnave executively produced the project and we had additional production by DV$TPH, Tokiowahl and Cyclope Beatz. 

How do you push yourself and evolve as an artist?

I think for me I have always had an innate fire to constantly improve with every project I do. I never want to look back and regret not trying my hardest at this and that's something I think about a lot and it fuels me. Mindset plays a huge role in this, doing the work to block out the negative thoughts and limiting beliefs is what I have to work on consistently. I think artists have such a unique way of viewing the world and so I try to do a lot of different things to broaden my perspective so that I am always growing in the way I write and sing. It’s important for artists to look after themselves because this can impact their ability to create, it requires a lot of focus and energy to do this. So I try to do things I enjoy such as explore different areas often, read books about things I’m interested in that don’t necessarily relate to music, watching random things, working out really challenges my mind and I guess just living life but taking notice of the subtle things around me, letting it inspire me to put into the music. Discipline and dedication to the craft is also super important, there are definitely periods where I am not actively making music though I am still contemplating about it all the time and what I can do next. 

So in terms of being an artist how has your experience been so far, and if you could go back in time and give yourself advice from when you first started what would it be? 

It’s taken a lot of hard work and I feel very blessed to be where I am. There are definitely ups and downs though I feel I have achieved more than I thought I could so far. I am so thankful to have people who I don’t know, genuinely enjoy the music and can relate to me and my message. It’s surreal at times. I hope I've been able to inspire people who are in places that I used to be mentally. If I could go back in time I would tell myself to stop doubting and that I don’t need anyone to believe in me but myself. 

For an R&B artist that is just getting started, what is some advice you would give them?

I would recommend finding someone to team up with for example a producer/engineer who you can build your sound with. You really need someone you trust to be in your corner who sees the vision and can also be honest with you along the way. This journey is extremely difficult, you will have many days where you will want to quit and give it all up. So having a support like that to keep you on track when it gets hard is crucial. 

So what’s next for you in 2023, where do you hope to be before the end of this year? 

I’ll be starting to work on my next project very soon. I am not sure what it’s going to look like just yet but I’m excited to try out some new sounds and vocal techniques. Hoping to have this one out by the end of the year. I’ve also been coaching new artists with vocal lessons and overall development so that’s an exciting thing I want to continue to do alongside my own music journey.

Shout some people out who should we feature next on NS? 

If you’re open to featuring producers! Lxndxnave, DV$TPH, Tokiowahl and Cyclope Beatz. 

Any last words? 

I really appreciate Nefarious Supply always supporting me and everything I do! The community you guys have created for independent artists is unmatched. I appreciate the opportunity you provide artists to share their story and the creative process behind the art. It's always therapeutic for me to write about my projects in this level of detail.

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This article was written with the assistance of ChatGPT, a large language model developed by OpenAI.

Bailey Straughn

Bailey welcome to Nefarious Supply, to get this interview started tell us about yourself who is Bailey Straughn, and how long have you been a musician? 

Imma 25 year old blue collar bandit. Was born in Baltimore and lived in Pasadena/Baltimore County for most of my life. I’ve been doing music since I was about 8 but I was 12 when I recorded my first song.

What artists would you say have inspired you on your journey as an artist, and what albums have been in your daily rotation? 

If we’re talking from the beginning it was Outkast, Mobb Deep, Lady Gaga, Eminem, Wayne and whatever else was around it’s really so much to pull from. As far as my current rotation: Valee, MIKE, this salsa playlist I found on YouTube, all my friends stuff they made recently and Ice Spice (Sorry Cadeem).

Tell us about your experience as an artist within the DMV, what’s the area like for underground and emerging artists in the area, who are some of the biggest artists making waves, and what artists you hope to work with within the area. 

It’s probably the most complex area for any industry if we’re being honest. I’ve been consistently active in the space for about 6 years. It feels like everyone is emerging rite now in their own ways whether its numbers wise, live shows, quality of music or marketing. It feels like everyday somebody breaks through and successfully translates what they were always trying to express.. Right now I'm perfectly fine with working with my friends. They are probably the most talented people I know and I'm proud to be a part of this shit with them.

Right now you have two albums “Sadaboutit” and “Onedayatatime.” tell us about both including the meaning behind the names, what inspired both projects, and what the creative process was like around both?

Not to be cringe but Sadaboutit. was made during the most important point of my life. I really had no drive to make music before, it felt like I was in a work sleep cycle. I locked in with Luke Herold one of the best engineers in the world and pretty much made a biography about the last 2 years of my life with extreme vulnerability. Onedayatatime. doubles down on that with better beats, mixing, verses and is just overall the best thing I’ve ever made that’s been released so far. (By the way RIP BBE Chinaman he was on  Onedayatatime. He passed away about 2 years ago and I really think the DMV missed out on one of their most talented artists and aside from the music just a truly authentic/genuine human being.)

What is your favorite thing about being an artist and since your start what are some things you’ve learned on your journey? 

The creating/recording process is always the best part. I learned you gotta be comfortable with yourself and remain composed while trying to achieve the insane goal of making music your full time job. 

If you could go back in time and give yourself some advice from when you first started what would you say? 

After the bar closes GO HOME! 

So what’s next for you in 2023 where do you hope to be by the end of this year, and where do you want your career to be? 

Well for starters last month I dropped a song/video “Whenthehomieslink.” Shot by Jarett Loeffler and produced by Cadeem LaMarr. I’m just putting out stuff randomly for the first half of the year and then I’ll work on dropping another album in the fall. I can tell you that I got a EP coming in the spring with me and Lil Paq that we just recently put together and that project is groovy as hell, real Saturday Night Fever vibes.

Any last words?

BE SAFE KEEP PACE (I know it’s cliche to say drink more water but seriously… do it.)

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SoundCloud Gems - February 21, 2023

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47NEGUS

We’ll start this list with a brand-new vibe we found not even three days ago! 47Negus is an insanely capable artist, and we mean this in more ways than just his incredibly versatile flow. But actually, no. Let’s talk about it. 47 is an incredible lyricist. We counted more than 5 different flow changes on his new track “I COUNT GUAP”, all while weaving together various creative storytelling elements to create an amazing piece. We want to see more from 47Negus all 2023! Check out his new EP as well, “drafts”.

BABEBEE

Babebee is an artist we’ve been meaning to talk about for a while, and with the collaboration between her and simon m coming out with her new EP “tainted in her memories” her spot on this list was solidified! Babebee helms a soft, yet affirming vocal tone that allows her lyricism, to gently guide through the concepts she’s conveying. Her voice almost sounds haunting, as if she’s singing to you from a world you can’t reach, one where only she thrives, and it’s a beautiful display every time. 

RIPTONY

Riptony. What else is there to say? Well if you haven’t heard about this artist yet, let us be the first to let you know, you’ve been missing out. We first saw his efforts on his track “COLLECT ME” with chanelfather and caponeti, and since then he’s never missed once, evidence of this being. With immaculate vocal mixing, infectious beat selection, and amazing animation skills, we’re excited to see what he does next.

MUSA

Musa is a generational talent, and we do not say that lightly. They do everything, from production and engineering to singing and songwriting. Musa has this ability to really form their art around the heart of a concept, and give it a new light. The track “pessimistic” on their new project “111” encompasses this point, with them asking why their partner is so pessimistic, while also confessing how their own pessimism towards themselves didn’t help whatever this could have been in the long run. We love Musa, and we hope they make music forever! 

JAUNTSEN 

Jauntsen is a powerhouse of an artist. With her incredibly passionate tone and insane vocal range, she is able to give the listener an anthemic experience that you really don’t hear that often anymore. Her straightforward and cathartic writing allows us to relate to her on a level that people are sometimes too scared to reach, and this is what makes Jauntsen so amazing. She’s an evocative songwriter and an even more fearless vocalist. Listen to her new EP “one day 2” (which she made in 24 hours by the way!)

T1GERSTAR

When you listen to Tigerstar you feel like a pretty pop girl in the early 2000s, she has such a unique main character energy on tracks that you can’t help but fall deeper into her discography. The song that really got us into her music was her track “metalstar”. When we say the energy blew us off our feet, our bodies started levitating and we simultaneously reached nirvana as we gently glided up to Valhalla (none of this happened). Tigerstar is something of a wildcard, where you really don’t know what song she’ll do next. It can be pop, digicore, metal, or something completely left-field. In any of those scenarios, however, you know one will always be true, she’s gonna kill it. 

SWAZY

Swazy just dropped his new song “crashout*” and we knew it was time more people were talking about him. Swazy can give you any vibe you want, but it will always make you bump your head, from insanely hard production and even heavier-hitting lyricism (check out his song “been it*” with riptony), to heartfelt ballads over expressive guitar melodies and creative drum patterns. Swazy is also an amazing songwriter, from tracks like “painful song about mother*” where he talks about how how the tragic event of his mother’s passing has affected him, to his braggadocio-bleeding anthem “stop it*”. The man is definitely next up, and we’ll be seated at every moment.

TSUYUNOSHI

Every time we listen to a Tsuyunoshi song we feel like it’s the last day of school right on the cusp of summer. That festive, deep breath of fresh air that has you knowing the next few moments of your life is gonna be okay, fun even. Tsuyunoshi has a skill for tackling heavy romantic subjects within a light-hearted atmosphere. On songs like “head in the clouds” where he begs for peace of mind and time away from someone in order to focus on himself and his vision, and “house of cards” where he’s battling a version of himself he doesn’t like, Tsuyunoshi will have you dancing in your living room one moment, and thinking introspectively the next. He is one to definitely look out for this year. 

VAI5000

Vai5000 is a really unique artist for us because she is our first Vocaloid producer! Yes, you heard it here first folks, Vai5000 is actually a multifaceted creative, delving into gfx, vfx, animation, and illustration, all to create a brand new world for her music to live in, and she does that masterfully. With well-placed features, insanely cool art styles that almost tell a story, and extensive musical prowess, Vai5000 is here to stay, and we’re stamping that. Check out her newest release “replicant” with i9bonsai today!

VALBERRIE

Valberrie is a newer artist to us as we only began listening to her a few months ago, but every song she releases is a bop, and we mean that in the purest of forms. You just can’t help getting fully invested in the atmosphere of her tracks, and her use of vocal mixing allows her voice to sound ethereal and comforting to first-time listeners. She has very relatable lyrics and her features always seem to enter her world and amplify the story behind the tracks, very good placements on her end. Valberrie is a fun and entertaining artist we think should be on everybody’s playlist! Check out her new song with rans0m, “peace”. 

Sincere Hunte - Roadman

Sincere Hunte is a rising star in the music industry, hailing from Nashville, Tennessee. An artist that has thoughtfully crafted his own unique style of hip hop. Sincere Hunte has quickly become a force to be reckoned with in the music world, and like many of the artists coming out of Nashville he is becoming a favorite of our team. Always striving for growth Sincere Hunte has consisttly released amazing bodies of work and his new project ROADMAN is no different.

ROADMAN, is Hunte’s latest addition to his growing discography, which includes “SO FAR SO GOOD” which was dropped in 2021, and The Genesis, which dropped last year. This new album features guest appearances from some of the biggest underground artists in Nashville, including Ronin Black, Georgie Zaven, Mike Floss, $avvy, and Devin. Creating a new body of work for an artists that takes their work seriously is never easy and the creative journey behind ROADMAN was a long and challenging one, as Hunt faced numerous obstacles along the way. However, despite the difficulties, he was determined to bring his vision to life and create an album that would truly represent his artistry and connect with his fans.

A big challenge that Hunte faced during the creation of “ROADMAN” was balancing his artistic vision with the expectations of his fans. He wanted to push the boundaries of what was possible with his music, while still maintaining the style and sound that his fans had come to know and love. To achieve this, he worked closely with his production team to craft a sound that was both innovative and accessible, and that would truly showcase his skills as a rapper and a producer. Taking those risks paid off because not only does this album feature some of the best music we’ve heard in a while, anyone that has listened to his previous work can hear the growth and that is exciting.

When working with other artists to create music espcially an album there is balancing act that place, and with ROADMAN, Hunte was able to do so perfectly. The guest features on ROADMAN played a significant role in the creation of the album, as each of the artists brought their own unique style and perspective to the project. Some of the best songs on the album come from his collaboration with members of the Nashville based collective Dadabase. Including Carried Away 4(U) & Right By Your side with Georgie Zaven, as wella as DJ Girl with Savvy (Another favirote artist of the NS Team). The collaborations on ROADMAN are truly a testament to the depth and diversity of the hip-hop genre, and show just how much Hunt is pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the genre.

The production aspect of ROADMAN was a collaborative effort between Hunte and his production team which included Jayyun, Enxgma, & Lloyd Flannel, this team creativity was a key factor in the success of the album. The beats, samples, and overall sound of the album were carefully crafted to create a cohesive and engaging listening experience, and to showcase the wide range of Hunt's musical abilities. The end result is an album that is both innovative and classic, and that truly showcases Hunte's artistry as a rapper and producer.

Hunt's lyrics on ROADMAN are deeply personal and introspective, and showcase his growth as an artist and a person. He explores a wide range of themes, and conveys his message with a unique perspective and a powerful voice. Through his music, Hunt hopes to connect with his fans on a deeper level and to inspire them to think critically about the world around them.

ROADMAN is a continuation of Hunt's growing discography, and showcases his growth and development as an artist. We are excited to see his growth as an artists and more than enjoyed his new album. Read our interview with him below to learn more about Roadman.

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Can you discuss the creative journey you took while creating ROADMAN? What was the biggest challenge you faced, and how did you overcome it?

The journey was a long one, a few of the verses are years old as well as some of the hooks I had spread out over other beats. A huge challenge which I feel is the most important thing when making a project is making it cohesive and conveying a message but also keeping it ‘me’, in a sense. I feel like there’s a few songs like ‘Carried Away’ with Georgie or ‘ROADMAN’ where I kind of strayed away from what I’m used to, another part of the journey was accepting the evolution in that, which feels to me like a big step.

What was your initial vision for ROADMAN and how did it evolve over the course of creating the album? Can you walk us through the process of bringing this vision to life?

My initial vision for ROADMAN was completely different from what it came to be. Originally, it was supposed to be an EP titled ‘Between The World & Me’ but that felt like something I had already done before, I had a shift in style not only inward but also outwardly. My beat selection changed, subject matter, even the way I dressed. I started delving through UK street culture and that’s really when my friends started calling me Roadman, and then, I actually made the song ROADMAN and was like “Okay I can get behind this”.

Can you talk about the guest features on ROADMAN, specifically Ronin Black, Georgie Zaven, Mike Floss, $avvy, and Devin? How did these collaborations come about and how did each of these artists contribute to the final product?

AH YES! The features are my favorite parts of the project. Everyone did their thing! I made ‘TIL THE END’ during the ‘So Far So Good’ sessions but even then, before I had formally met him, I knew I wanted Floss on it. It worked out better than I could have possibly imagined. As far as Sav and Georgie, being in a collective with those boys and knowing what they can do, I usually just give them the ball and get the hell out of the way. I produced ‘BY YOUR SIDE’( with the help of Enxgma, GK, & Jayyun), ‘CARRIED AWAY’ (alongside Jayyun) & ‘DJ Girl’ knowing I wanted their help on those 3, I actually wrote ‘Carried Away’ for Georgie but something happened along the way and he didn’t take it so I put him on the hook.

‘BY YOUR SIDE’ was one of those early morning cook ups and I figured G would sound good on it too. ‘DJ GIRL’ came about when I played the beat for Sav he instantly said he wanted to get on it, had no idea what he was gonna do on it but then it came about and was like “Fuck it, it’s his song” I loved it instantly. Devin was also another no-brainer. I heard his tape ‘Hood Tears and Doldrums’ and DM’d him right after, it was mutual respect, we chopped it up, sent him a few beats Jayyun had ready, he sent it back like two days later. BODIED. ‘EXOSHAPER’ was an interesting one because, for the longest, I wanted to throw it away. Then I heard a Ronin song which sounds nothing like ‘EXOSHAPER’ but it had the same feeling, so I sent it to him, a few weeks later, he played it for me outside the club, I knew I made the right choice instantly.

Can you delve deeper into the production aspect of ROADMAN? Who did you work with on production and how did they help bring your vision to life? How did you approach the beats, samples, and overall sound of the album?

There’s 4 main producers on the album, Me, Jayyun, Enxgma, & Lloyd Flannel. Not only do I consider them my friends but they are also super talented and they just get what I go for when I’m locked in. We weren't going for anything too specific as far as sampling, I was more so focused on the drums, making sure that they were chunky and full, every kick feels like a kick to the chest, and every pattern isn’t the classic boom bap but keeping the same feeling. I’m already very selective when it comes to beats, so I approached this production and sequencing differently, I let the drums lead and built around those. I wanted to keep my previous sound from before but let it evolve, I’d like to think I succeeded.

The album cover for ROADMAN is intriguing and thought-provoking. Can you discuss the concept behind the cover and how it relates to the overall theme of the album?

Honestly, there was no major concept for the cover, I just think it looks cool and every project I try to do a logo with it. As far as relating to the overall theme of the album ‘ROADMAN’ is new to this city, running from past mistakes it feels like an ID picture at the DMV almost.

Your lyrics on ROADMAN are very introspective and personal. Can you share more about the inspiration behind the lyrics, and what you hope to convey to your listeners through your music?

All of my lyrics are feelings, even if you haven't been through what I’ve been through, you can still feel what I felt. That type of shit can’t be imitated, that’s what I feel makes good music good. I hope to inspire, I feel like everyone has been dealt a hand and no matter what, you can be expected to lose or be fucked up about something. You’ll make it through, nothing lasts forever.

How do you feel ROADMAN fits into your overall discography and showcases your growth as an artist? Can you discuss the differences and similarities between ROADMAN and your previous work?

As far as growth, I feel like I finally have good hooks and my bars keep improving at a rapid pace. I listen to old verses like ball players watch plays, seeing what I could’ve done better but truth be told, I give all proof of growth to God. I think ‘ROADMAN’ is a good mix between ‘The Genesis’ and ‘So Far So Good’. It’s the more mature bars from ‘The Genesis’ and sonically a more polished ‘So Far So Good’, it fits well like the previous works are 1 + 1 and ROADMAN is the answer, 2. 

Can you talk about the role that personal experiences play in your music and how you use them to connect with your listeners? How do you balance the personal with the universal in your music?

Personal experiences are everything to me. It makes up almost all of my music. I think music is mainly personal when created, it only becomes universal when the consumer interprets it. It all comes from the soul if it’s done right. 

In your opinion, what is the current state of hip hop and how do you see ROADMAN fitting into the genre?

Me personally, I feel Hip-Hop is exactly where it needs to be, I mean, of course it’s few instances where people are not putting their soul in to fully but it’s still what it has always been, I have so much love for it and for that same reason i feel ROADMAN fits well, it’s raw expression through poetry.

Can you discuss the creative choices you made when producing ROADMAN, such as the incorporation of different styles and sounds, and why you made those choices?

When making the songs, I wanted to explore other styles while still keeping it ‘me’ that's how songs like ‘CARRIED AWAY’ came about, it’s the same formula just with a different flavor or even ‘ROADMAN’ it’s the same thing, It’s still me just a little more of something else in the pot.

What do you consider to be the standout tracks on ROADMAN and why? How do these tracks represent the essence of the album as a whole?

I feel like every track could be looked at as a standout track depending on where you're standing, I’ve tried asking my friends the same question, it’s always a toss up with very valid points. If I had to pick though, I’d say, ‘EXOSHAPER’, ‘ROADMAN’, ‘CARRIED AWAY’, ISITREAL’, then a toss up between ‘TIL THE END’ and ‘BY YOUR SIDE’. These songs embody the whole project, all different perspectives on the same life through a different scope.

How do you approach your live performances, and how do you feel ROADMAN will translate to your live shows?

I made these songs with the hope of more crowd engagement. I feel like at my shows before it was a lot to digest all at once with the deep raps so with this one I wanted to give the same messages with a different type of energy behind it. Some head banging, some dancing, maybe even moshing .. One song I really want to perform is ‘TIL THE END’, in my head it already looks crazy.

Lastly, what do you hope listeners take away from ROADMAN, and what message do you hope to convey with this album? How do you hope this album will impact the world and your fans?

The message is and has always been, there’s many roads to get to where you want to go. There’s no right or wrong way to do anything as far as goals, you do what you are comfortable with. What makes sense. Keep God with you and you’ll be straight. I honestly just look to inspire like the ones before me did for me, I’m no role model but hopefully people can take something from this that makes them better in some way.

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Artist of the Month January 2023 - JYou

Underground musical artist JYou has recently released his new album "Living on The Edge", a body of work that showcases his artistic growth and maturity. The album title perfectly encapsulates JYou's state of mind during its creation. It speaks to the inner turmoil he experienced, grappling with the complexities of life and the challenges that come with it. JYou bravely tackles the struggles of coming of age, the pressure of societal expectations, and the impact of systemic racism in America, all while attempting to find purpose, peace and progress in life.

JYou’s journey of self-discovery is evident in each track on the album, as he collaborates with a talented group of artists including Nobody’s Home, KON, WowJus7in, Chuck iNDigo, and Ashley EMJ. Each song serves as a testament to his raw and emotional lyrical style, and the production showcases his ability to craft a sound that is both authentic and innovative.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Can’t Believe", a song that reflects JYou's disbelief in the world and its injustices, while also exploring his personal journey of self-discovery. "Broke Boi" featuring KON, is a tribute to the hustle and grind required to make a name for oneself in the music industry, while "Handle" delves into the pressure of life and the emotional weight it can bring. Finally, "Backkk" with Chuck iNDigo, speaks to JYou's journey of shedding past trauma and moving forward in life.

JYou’s unique approach to music has earned him a dedicated fanbase, and with "Living on The Edge", he is sure to gain even more recognition. He believes that this album has the potential to reach a wider audience, and that its themes will resonate with listeners for years to come. With its captivating sound, raw emotion and thought-provoking lyrics, "Living on The Edge" is truly a standout album, one that should not be missed.

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JYou, it’s been some time since we had you on Nefarious Supply, and we are excited to have you back to get this interview started. Give us an update on what's been going in with you since out last interview with you?

So much it’s truly been a blessing. I’ve been working on music of course, that’s 24/7. Expanding my knowledge and skills in all areas, performing and shit. My bros and I decided to launch our creative collective Inner Circle, so that’s been really exciting as well. 

All the musicians out of Nashville have been going crazy and you’re no different. How is the area now for underground music? Has there been more musicians coming onto the scene?

It’s really beautiful, I can’t speak on how things were before I’ve come around the scene but I see a lot of folks now really being unafraid to be unapologetic themselves. I think that inspires everyone to do more and push us all forward. The sense of support in the community has been the best I’ve felt. And it’s so many new people moving here too, so that's really grown our creative space.

Who are some of your favorite artists right now, and what albums have been in your current rotation?

I have so much music in my rotation that things change by the month. I’ve been heavy on that yatchy album which is a beautiful listening experience. Jordan Ward, Kaycee, LAYA, and of course myself have been the main rotation these past couple weeks. 

Last we talked you had just put out your new single “G.L.C” since that time, how have you grown as an artist and what are some things you’ve learned about yourself, the industry, as well as being an artist since then?

I feel like I’ve grown in so many ways since. I was having a conversation with a friend and we were talking about finding my sound. And I can’t say I’ve found it, but I think now I’m not necessarily looking for it. I love making music and I've learned to be more free flowing in my process of making it. One big thing I’ve learned is just be you! Do what makes you happy, don’t function by an algorithm. 

Following up on “G.L.C.” you released two songs in 2022 with Casein “Soberimwitchu”, & “Addict” walk us through both songs including what inspired them, what was it like making both, and what was the creative process like working with Casein?

Casein is a great producer! He hit me up earlier in the year to work and we made a couple tracks. I believe he sent me a few beats and I wrote to them and recorded. We are supposed to collaborate again so stay tuned for that! 

Bro your new album is crazy! Walk us through the album including the meaning behind the name, the overall creative process behind it, and what this album means for you as well as your career?

Thank you so much! This album is like a baby to me, I’m just now presenting it to the world. I made the first song (backkk) in early 2021 and the last song (nest) in November of that year. It was hella organic, we had a bunch of sessions over a couple months. We listened back to them midway in the year and found like 5-6 songs that were in that same vibe.

Living on the Edge, the title relates to how I was feeling at the time when making it. The tug of war in feelings and actions, the questioning of purpose and faith, the overwhelming pressure that life can put on you along with the horrors of being black in America. I want to feel better and be better for myself but what does that look like for me? The album talks about all that, and my struggle with coming of age and having to shed past trauma while still progressing and elevating in life. I feel like this album really is money, like it could be charted or something with the right eyes on it. I believe it’ll be one of those projects that’ll age really well. 

Talk us through the production of the album including who you worked with?

Nobody’s Home (the trio of Greg Walton, Jackson Thatcher and Jack Keller) the goats man! We got like a catalog full of songs together. It's crazy! They produced every song except one (handle). Super fire group, I had reference tracks and a few demos for some of the songs, and they really brought that shit to life. If you’re an artist and you are reading this, go book them boys mane! Handle was produced by KON and WowJus7in. It was actually KON’s beat he was going to make a song too. I heard it in a session with Justin and fell in love with it. I wrote the verse in like 10 minutes lmao. It just felt right 

So front to back we love the entire album but our favorite songs on the project include the opening song “Can’t Believe”, “Broke Boi” with KON, “Handle”, and “”Backkk” with Chuck iNDigo, walk us through each of these songs?

“Can’t believe” was a true tug of war. Picture that guy that thinks he’s good but his actions never follow suit. Very vulnerable song, and the keys+drums+bass combo hits your soul. “Brokeboi” like a lot of these songs was written in one session. I remember being in the studio with Nobody’s Home and KON, Jackson was playing the rift and I immediately made the chorus. Told bro the theme and we got to writing. We replaced all the “I’s” with “He” to make it feel more story-like and relatable. “Backkk” was originally from a YouTube beat, it was way darker. S/o to Nobody’s Home for creating a more of upbeat rendition. I showed Cole (@mixedbycole) an early version and he suggested to get Chuck on the hook.

On this new project you featured KON, Chuck iNDigo, and Ashley EMJ, what was it like working with each of them?

It’s amazing, they’re all very talented individuals that inspire me. I’ve worked with KON since the beginning so it’s amazing to see our growth. Imma fan of Chuck’s music so it’s always dope when we can collab. And last but certainly not least Ashley EMJ is so wonderful to work with! Incredible writer and vocalist, it’s so seamless anytime we are in the studio together. We got a couple of crazy unreleased tracks, hopefully y’all will get to hear those too. 

So what’s next for you in 2023, where do you want to be by the end of this year, and where do you want your career to be by the end of this year?

INNER CIRCLE! We got a bunch of things planned this year so follow our socials @inn.circle and stay up to date! Personally imma drop more this year too. I have a bunch of unreleased songs so I'll be back on heads before the summer for sure. 

For an artist just getting started right now what is some advice you would give them?

Work everyday! However long you need to on each day , just work on your craft. A little bit goes a long way and days stack on each other. Don’t push it off until tomorrow, do it right now! 

What artists should we interview out of Nashville in 2023?

Ashley EMJ 

Any last words?

Love y’all 

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This article was written with the assistance of ChatGPT, a large language model developed by OpenAI.

Success for Underground Artists: A Guide to Building a Sustainable Music Career

Starting a music career can be exciting, but it can also be tough, especially if you're an underground artist. It's a competitive industry, and burnout is a common pitfall for young artists. However, with the right mindset and strategies, you can grow your career consistently and avoid burnout. In this article, we'll explore some tips and strategies to help you build a successful music career.

Focus on developing your unique sound and style

The music industry is saturated with talented artists, so it's essential to stand out from the crowd. To do this, you need to focus on developing your unique sound and style. Find your niche and focus on honing your skills and creating music that sets you apart from the rest. This could involve experimenting with different genres, incorporating different instruments, or exploring different production techniques.

Build a strong online presence

In today's digital age, a strong online presence is crucial for any artist looking to grow their career. Make sure to have a professional website and active social media accounts where you can share your music, connect with fans, and promote your events and releases. Platforms like SoundCloud, Bandcamp, and YouTube are great places to share your music and reach a wider audience.

Network with other artists and industry professionals

Networking is crucial in any industry, and the music industry is no exception. Attend concerts, music events, and festivals, and take advantage of opportunities to meet and connect with other artists and industry professionals. Building relationships and collaborating with other artists can lead to new opportunities and exposure for your music.

Collaborate with other artists

Collaborating with other artists can be a great way to gain new exposure, learn from others, and expand your musical horizons. Find artists whose music you admire and reach out to see if they're interested in collaborating. This could lead to a new sound, new fans, and new opportunities for your music career.

Focus on your mental and physical health

As a young artist, it's important to take care of yourself, both mentally and physically. Touring and recording can be demanding and stressful, and it's essential to prioritize your health to avoid burnout. Make sure to take breaks, exercise regularly, and engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Also, consider seeking support from a therapist or counselor if you need it.

Be consistent and focused

Consistency is key when it comes to growing your music career. Make sure to release new music regularly and maintain a steady presence on social media. This will keep your fans engaged and interested in your music. Additionally, stay focused on your goals and never lose sight of what you want to achieve in your career.

Utilize digital marketing strategies

Finally, utilizing digital marketing strategies can help you reach new fans and grow your music career. Consider investing in online advertising, such as social media ads and Google AdWords campaigns, to promote your music and reach new fans. You can also use email marketing to keep in touch with your fans and let them know about your latest releases and events. Partnering with music blogs and websites is another great way to gain exposure and reach a new audience.

In conclusion, starting a music career as a young underground artist can be a journey full of challenges, but with the right approach, you can grow your career consistently and avoid burnout. By focusing on developing your unique sound and style, building a strong online presence, networking with other artists and industry professionals, collaborating with other artists, taking care of your mental and physical health, being consistent and focused, and utilizing digital marketing strategies, you'll be well on your way to building a successful and sustainable music career.

Remember, the key to success in the music industry is to stay true to yourself and never give up on your dreams. It's a challenging journey, but with persistence and hard work, you can achieve your goals and make a lasting impact on the music world.

Sources:

• "The Importance of Networking in the Music Industry" by Alex Baker, Sonicbids (https://www.sonicbids.com/blog/the-importance-of-networking-in-the-music-industry)

• "Music Marketing Strategies for Independent Artists" by Jey Han Lew, Hubspot (https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/music-marketing-strategies-independent-artists)

• "10 Ways to Stay Motivated and Avoid Burnout in Your Music Career" by Mike Levine, Sonicbids (https://www.sonicbids.com/blog/10-ways-to-stay-motivated-and-avoid-burnout-in-your-music-career)

This article was written with the assistance of ChatGPT, a large language model developed by OpenAI.

Xabiel Lucia

Xabiel Lucia, welcome to Nefarious Supply we are excited to finally feature you on the platform for 2023. To get the interview started tell us about yourself, who is Xabiel Lucia, what experiences have influenced you as an artist, and how has your experience been so far as an underground artist?

Hello i am Xabiel Lucia, an up & coming artist from the beautiful city of New Orleans. I am the everyday person, I am as normal as a random guy walking passed you on the streets, the one thing that separates me would have to be my art such as my music, the sounds that i put out into the world. 

I’ve been inspired by many, coming from the islands I first fell in love with my native music which is Bachata & other melodies with guitars, drums, & other instruments that just make you want to dance or cry lol depending on how it makes ya feel. Coming to the states at a young age was very important for my family & in the long run it was also important for me because it allowed me to change it made me into who I am today. Many american artists have touched my heart like Michael Jackson,Lil wayne, Travy McCoy, Kanye West, Kendrick Lamar, Ole Dirty Bastard, MF DOOM so on so force, other artist that aren’t from the states but did exactly what im doing like M.I.A., Rihanna, & others that I can’t quite remember atm.  My experience as an underground artist isn’t so bad, I’m in my beginning stages, is a little ruff yeah sometimes I feel like quitting off course, I never really have the balls to do it I don’t know why something just doesn’t want me to stop I guess. I love it all. 

NOLA seems like a bedrock of talent, we've featured a number of artists from the area including Lango and Three65 and they've had nothing but positive things to say about the area. So tell us about your experience in NOLA, what the underground scene is like out there, and how this area influenced you and your sound? 

The city’s amazing, the culture is so fascinating, i like it. I hate the people, the underground scene is filled with ZOMBIES, walking copies of the same person. The love/support is kept for a specific group of people, I’m not in the list. Is okay. That’s all i have to say.

What artists would you say have had the biggest influence on you and your sound, and what artists have you been listening to?

Kendrick Lamar Kendrick Lamar Kendrick fookin Lamar. The man is a different breed of human a different artist when he touches the mic, i can fanboy all day but i wont. Let me keep it short he’s helped me in ways no one has ever done. He truly is a special person to me and his music will always live with me for now and then. 

What are some of your favorite albums right now?

Mr.Morale & The Big Steppers, ANTI (Rihanna), I Rest My Case (Youngboy Never Broke Again)

Xabiel it's insane how good your production is! Walk us through your creative process from beginning to end, and how do you know when you have something you're ready to share with fans?

Thank you, nowadays is a little bit harder for me to find inspiration just because I’ve been doing it for a while so it’s not like how it used to be where I could listen to a beat and I’m instantly hard for music. No it’s not like that anymore. Oh, I have to truly feel a certain way with myself and with the environment and with everything, I can’t just get on any beat nowadays. Don’t get it wrong though I’m still working a lot. 

I know exactly when something is ready to be shared with my friends/fans whenever I put my headphones down and walk away from my microphone and I hit play and I start fookin dancing to what I just made. That’s when I know I’m ready to share.

Right now you have three projects out that we've really enjoyed; "Ush Up World", “Iheart×l”, and” l'm Home”. Tell us about these projects including what inspired them, the creative process and timeline behind each, and out of the three which project is your favorite.

Thank you for tuning in, Ush Up World comes from a happy & exciting place, it truly  is a masterpiece & one day it’ll see the light of day. IheartXl was made simply bc i can, i have the privilege to do so, GOD gave me the tools so im utilizing them, simple as that. I’M HOME is a special peace to me, the backstory behind it is kinda personal so i won’t speak on it. Thank you. 

There’s no favorites. 

Across your discography you've worked with a number of talented artists including Mdmlil1, Staxx, Lango, Mvddmvcc, and more. How does your creative process change when collabing with other artists, and what's your favorite aspect about working with other artists?

Whenever i work with peopll, the first few words are thank you for the honors, are you ready to make music, that implies that we are about to kill it in ways that will get us locked up for life. Everyone has shown a different side of themselves when it comes to working with me & i love it. Never box yourself in.

If you could go back in time to when you first started your journey, what's one piece of advice you would tell your self? 

Keep your ears open & your mouth chirping.   

Shout some friends out you think we should feature on here.  

Neno Fresh, neno is like the older brother i never had, he actually inspired me to start recording music, i use to write poetry. Saudii, saudii is also another dominican aritst who stands out so much, & he’s in connections with a very important person who I won’t say much about. Last but not least my brother Bebe Static, my day one, a true talent sent from idk where lol.  

So what's next for 2023? 

Im definitely making it.  

Any last words?

Music lives, you don’t. -xL

---

Artists to Look Out - January 2023

Leastfavorite

Leastfavorite, also known as lfav, is an upcoming multi-faceted underground artist, who provides vocals, production, and imagery to her music all on her own accord. Breaking out with her newest project, isomorph, the young artist has shown that she is able to create beautiful art that will stand the test of time! Her sound delves more into electronic spaces with hints of many other genres, such as alt-rock, rap, and pop mixed within! Trust me, once you’ve listened to her, she’ll be on your playlist.

Corefish

Corefish is an artist that caught our ear off the first listen to his debut album, “SPLIT”. His sultry, energetic, and wanting vocal tones, mixed with fantastic production and engineering put you in another world entirely. Corefish talks about love, self-actualization, coming into your own in an unknown world, and ultimately trying your best to be okay, even when you don’t know how. He’s an amazing talent and is definitely on our radar this year. 

Kurtis

Kurtis has been on fire since mid-2022 with the release of his tracks “walking in the fog” and “brittle bones”. The latter, specifically, would land him a longtime collaborative relationship with producer, grayskies, who would go on to make the groundwork for Kurtis’s other big hits like hide n seek with Rouri404, arsonist, and his newest release, inertia. Kurtis helms a haunting yet powerful voice and his unique tone of voice gives adds itself as a perfect device for his great storytelling.

Leyton

We found Leyton on Soundcloud through listening to Leastfavorite and found her music to be cathartic and her lyrics infectiously deep. Leyton has been in an ongoing collaboration with producer typhoon, who has laid the groundwork for her last five singles, and this duo’s ability to create a catchy, endearing, yet heavy-hitting piece of music is astonishing and captivating. Please listen to more Leyton this year! We promise you won’t be disappointed!

Visions

Visions has been a big part of the underground community for a while now, having originated under the now-disbanded collective, gunrange, Vision’s soon took the underground by storm with his collaboration track give up, with vizzi, before following it up with the even more popular “replay” with rans0m! Vision’s uses heavy voice processing and a high-pitched, melodic flow that cuts through the heavy 808s surrounding his production. Visions is on the rise and should be on your playlist today!

Thrml

Thrml has an incredibly deep tone of voice which makes his style of singing that much more enveloping. With his husky delivery and the bounce and levity his beat choices, Thrml constructs a sturdy field for his vocals to play on. He writes amazing music and should be on everyone’s radar in the new year. Listen to his new track “ticking away” featuring himiko and sqeffy!

Drama Trial

Drama Trial is a newcomer to the scene that broke out doing something radical by today’s standards. They would release a song every single day. No joke, every day. The beauty of this was that every song was completely unrecognizable from the last, and the production quality of each was immensely impressive. Their song (re)percussions hit like no other in its second half, leaving you in shock and awe, from its incredibly weighted 808s and basslines, to Drama Trial’s beautifully distorted vocal style. Definitely an artist we’re excited to see more from!

Tokimi

Tokimi provides a breath of fresh air to fans of pop and alternative music. A newcomer in the scene, Tokimi has a unique sound that can’t really be described in many words. The ones that do come to mind are usually “experimental”, “breathtaking”, and “pretty”. From his incredible layers to his anthemic and aesthetically pleasing production, Tokimi is a heavy hitter that needs more attention this year!