Q: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and how your childhood impacted your musical direction?
A: I’ve been writing & composing music on a semi-serious level since I was about 15 years old. I started off playing piano & bass guitar as a child, which led to DJing, then beat-making and eventually writing songs & rapping.
Q: How are you planning on growing your fan base and sharing your music with the world? What message do you have for anyone who is about to discover “International Mack”?
A: I’ve been marketing my music through shows, social media, blogs, YouTube etc. for years, but mow I’m looking to acquire an entertainment loan to fund my career and shop for a single deal with a label. My message is that if I can do it, then you can too.. as cliche as that sounds.
Q: Who is the most inspiring artist for you right now? And where do you find inspiration for making music?
A: 50 Cent has always been an artist that I’ve looked up to since the beginning. To start off as a rapper and transform into a juggernaut mogul in the industry is beyond inspiring. Music is my therapy, so I find the most inspo when I need to vent or just stay in a creative groove.
Q: Can you tell us about the story or message behind the song, “Kingz 2 Godz.”?
A: This is a true underdog story & it was an honor to collab with Conway The Machine, who is a fellow Upstate NY artist that defied all the odds, even though he had a later start.
Q: How would you describe your sound in one word for potential listeners?
A: I would say Nostalgic, because people say my music reminds them of that late 90’s / early 2000’s East Coast Hip Hop.
Q: Did you face any challenges while writing or recording “Kingz 2 Godz”?
A: Being on a song with a lyrical legend can be intimidating for most, so I really had to rise to the occasion, but I definitely felt prepared.
Q: What is the message of your music? And what are your goals as an artist?
A: My music can be thought provoking & gritty at times, but I’m proof that we can evolve as humans & sound fly while doing it. My goal is to pay homage to the legends & pioneers that paved the way before me and keep real hip hop alive.
Q: Who is your dream artist to collaborate with? (dead or alive)
A: Dead, I would say The Notorious BIG & Alive, I would have to say Nas.
Q: What is your advice for people interested in pursuing music as a career or for those trying to enter the industry?
A: The biggest thing I learned over the years is that the industry is more focused on business than music, but that’s the music business for you. Just try to create the best music you can consistently & don’t let anyone throw off your work ethic. Also, remember that marketing is 90% of every business these days.
Q: If you could go back in time and give a younger you some words of wisdom, what would they be?
A: Once you learn how to fall in love the process, make sure you stay in love with it. Make smarter decisions & don’t waste time or big opportunities in your life.
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