Artist Snapshot: OG DENZO (@denzo2x)

image from @denzo2x redesigned by @rareflavr

The following text and content is compiled from responses of a @RareFlavr X @denzo2x interview:

Recently we had the opportunity to connect with @denzo2x NorthSide (NorthPole) of Chicago Native to discuss up and coming opportunities within the music industry and business as a music entrepreneur. He mentioned to us he has been in the music game for about two years now and is looking to take a serious step further as he releases his next projects. He has always been a fan of music growing up and the power it has to influence other people. To Denzo, it is all about gaining enough influence to create a positive impact. It helps his mentality to remain sharp, because you have to think on a higher scale to create. For him it is all about where you can take a listener mentally. He loves music where the song describes real life events that are taking place. He also explained how enjoys where music is currently, because different sounds are accepted more than ever.

A piece of the creative process-

In the beginning he would receive beats and break them down individually with his voice. Afterwards, he writes about half of the song and finishes the other half in the studio.

“It’s crazy because sometimes I write in parts whether that be writing uh hook of a song, then the bridge following a verse etc. sometimes my mind be all over the place so I just getta feeling for each part of the beat and capitalize off of it. “ -D.LaFlair

“I try to back myself into a corner before sessions to see what I can really come up with because my camp likes to keep it professional as far as time management so I know I have to come into studios prepared to a high degree.” - OG DENZO

@denzo2x Twin Blicky’s

@denzo2x Studio

songs & projects

“One of the toughest singles I will be releasing is called “Lights On Me” I really feel like it’s going to be my best song visually and promotional wise I’m releasing it November 10th officially. I feel like it’s the perfect follow up song behind the couple visuals and releases I do have out and I plan on taking all of my supporters through the entire process of creating it up to the video. It was originally produced by Mic Will @_ogmicwill on IG and engineered by Banks @banksthegenius on IG. I’m extremely appreciative of these release date.” - OGDENZO

FAST FORWARD NOVEMBER 10TH : LIGHTS ON ME VIDEO !!! OUT NOW!!!

Studio Session @denzo2x

He started performing by himself several months ago. His first performance was in Atlanta at Club Knockout Bar & Lounge and since then he began picking up serious speed. He said he loves doing shows because gets to meet people face to face and have them see the real him. His last three shows have went well and will be releasing a show recap video pertaining each song he promotes heavily. He has been on the radio once and had three songs played live through “NorthSide Plugged” . He has a couple radio station interviews coming up and will be in rotation. The EP is currently untitled but will have six tracks that all compliment each other and will be uploaded closer to winter/ December time, but is excited to put a stamp on the game and represent the city.

Live Performance @denzo2x

@denzo2x Chicago Bulls

Favorite Chicago Team

“My favorite team is The Bulls - not big on sports teams right now cause i feel the organizations aren’t making all of the right decisions but when Derrick Rose was at large I was the most excited about Chicago. Spent most of my youth playing basketball Fell in love with it an early age and never looked back I put a lot of work in tot the game and In return it shaped my character. “- OG DENZO

@denzo2x on twitter

We are glad to have brought you this artist snapshot feating Denzo, the creative process, influence, and life brought to his music. Please comment, like, share this post, as well as follow his social media to be on the lookout for upcoming music/video releases over next couple of months including “Lights on Me”. Thank you for following @rareflavr. Bring life to your music and music to life. Music evolves when the sounds are rare. #rareflavr

98.3 FM WGHC @denzo2x

Who has new music? Now or releasing soon? Submit it to @rareflavr before you are ready to release so we are best prepared to post for you!!! #rareflavr

NYOTA PARKER- "TRANSCEND" NOWPLAYING @rareflavr #staystrong #rareflavr

Do you have music you plan on releasing soon? Contact @rareflavr send us your cover art and links to your music or video and we will gladly share it #blog #music

RichFtp - " Iffy " [MUSICVIDEO] ( @rareflavr ) #linkinbio

Strength. NEW video by @billykauck @richftp.eng "Iffy"

NEW RichFTP " Iffy " (video) live at @rareflavr [Link in bio]

Do you have new music you are saving or have finished? Are you waiting for the right timing? Send us a submission for us to review your project. We will not only keep it private until your release date, but can collaborate on a plan. There is no charge for this service. Contact now at rareflavr.com

[D.f.t.m] find new music releases at rareflavr.com

Brando AR releases new video for song called, Self Concious . SEE now at rareflavr.com

Athrowbackk

Artist Snapshot: FleshXFur (@fleshxfur)

image property of @rareflavr : www.rareflavr.com

Thank you for Comments, shares, posts, likes, and subscribing- rareflavr

The following content/text and artist snapshot is comprised of a Rareflavr x John Welch interview:

photo @fleshxfur redesigned @rareflavr

John Welch @fleshxfur is a talented artist originally from a suburb located in Toronto, Canada, but currently resides on the British Colombia Vancouver island. We are grateful for the opportunity to feature this next artist snapshot , as well as all of the support this region of the world has shown us @rareflavr Thank you

fleshXfur

Instagram: @fleshxfur 

fleshxfur originated from John's Photography Business- Originally called, 'John Welch PhoDography' (an exclusive dog photographer), however he began to incorporate working with people, so developed the name to become, 'Flesh + Fur Photography'.  He chose to use it as his rapper name because not only is it unique,  but it showcases his real passion for dogs, photography, music, and links it all together. 

Photo property of @fleshxfur: (Effy LP cover art )-- Olivia the Doberman

The Effy LP by FleshXFur has been released and recorded at the Lyrics Studio in Victoria BC with Eddy on the boards. - This is a high-quality studio production with vocals put through on a Slate Mic. Almost every track on this LP is produced by someone different. Eddy Vocals Customizes the tracks and did all recording, mixing, and dropped the hook for the 'Know Me' collaboration with Spictacular and Mr. ESQ-- This project also includes a collaboration with an underground artist from Denver, Doozy Doo.

FLESHXFUR--- EFFY LP

Listen here on Spotify

Effy Lp, an album by Fleshxfur on Spotify

fleshXfur- 'Bridges' Prod. by Syndrome (official music video)

GOALS / PLANS FOR FUTURE

• Goal to Collaborate with Stuey Kubrick, (fb) Stuey Kubrick (vimeo)

• Enhance performance and continue to do live shows in preparation for a France/Holland Tour in Spring 2019.

• Grow FanBase/Listeners- Listen & Follow FleshXFur (Links below).

Photo Property of @fleshxfur

final words?

"Don't Litter"

- FleshXFur

photo property of : @fleshxfur

Artist Snapshot: TOMMY NUTTER (@itstommynutter)

Artist Snapshot: Tommy Nutter (@itstommynutter)

Thank you for doing the Artist Snapshot with us.

We want to create a unique post about yourself and learn about your creative process, products you use, and skills you have learned to position yourself as an artist, teacher and entrepreneur.

(DISCUSSION W/ TOMMY NUTTER)

 CREATIVE PROCESS

I'm always thinking of new sounds and concept for music. Even when I'm deep in conversation with people I often have a beat going in the back of my mind. This means I'm easily motivated, but the hard part is having the time to let that motivation do its thing. 

I'm one of those people who doesn't read instruction booklets, and who would rather sit there for hours figuring out something on my own than watching a tutorial, so a lot of the skills I've developed have been problems that I've come to know how to fix not by learning from others but through trial, error, and inspiration. 

That being said, once I figure something out, I tend to stick with it for a while to fully explore its capabilities. 

I tend to think more clearly about music and concepts when I'm driving. I don't listen to much music in the car but in a way I'm constantly listening to the music in my head making changes and trying out new sounds, then when I get back to the studio its either all forgotten, or I'm in the mood to bang it out on the MPC.  

My studio setup right now is a custom built PC with more Hard drives than I could ever want and a high end skylake processor. I run the Komplete Audio KA6 interface with my MPC and turntable, and a M-audio Code 61. One of the most important things to me is good reference monitors. I use the Maudio BX8 which I've come to know inside out over the past couple years. I also have a small cube speaker, multiple earbuds, a 2.1 Logitech speaker sub system, and my car parked just outside so checking the mix on multiple sources is never a problem. I also have my guitars and my guild starfire bass, as well as drumsticks, a coffee can shaker, a Kick drum and other little bits of percussion. 

I see people drawing in midi notes all the time on the Internet but I could never do that, I need hardware for sure. 

photo property of @itstommynutter

photo property of @itstommynutter

this Image branded/property by : @itstommynutter

VERSATILITY

If my most recent piece of work isn't my best then I feel like I'm either going backwards or I'm not putting in enough effort.  I don't have a set thing I like to work on most, as I'm inspired by so many different things.  However I want to acknowledge that for me this can be a bad thing. I find it hard to niche down in one certain area so I feel like my progress in making sales or appealing to certain markets is definitely hampered by this.  In some ways its a good thing that I can be so versatile but in terms of business its quite hard to know who to target. I think I get the most satisfaction out of mixing someone's song and completely blowing them away with the mix, more than I do making a beat and then mixing it and hearing the finished result. 

ALWAYS LEARNING  

I feel like I'm always learning, I feel like I've got so far yet to go, and the weird thing is, with mixing, you can be satisfied with your mix at any point in your career, and have no idea what could make that mix better, but someone like pensado or Greg wells would be able to hear things you don't even have any idea of. That's what excites me, if I'm happy with where I'm at now, just imagine how happy with myself ill be in ten years.

image property of @itstommynutter

keep LEARNING

This is the methodology I want to bring to my viewers or followers, to be happy with where you're at, and to keep learning so that enjoyment grows over time. I think having an understanding of the concept behind how things work, rather than specific instructions on how to configure specific plugins etc only serves to make you learn faster and develop a better knowledge of sound engineering . See Example Tutorial https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v0EDJW48q-E

I upload a beat every week to youtube and facebook, and it has buy links to my beatstars store itstommynutter.beatstars.com.  Link Here  https://itstommynutter.beatstars.com/  I've sold a few online, but I'm the worst at business and marketing and feel I'm still in the early stages of trying to learn how to make money on the web from leasing beats. I also try to upload either a cooking video or some type of tutorial or vlog. 

As for mixing and mastering I get a lot of work from freelance websites such as fiverr Link Here https://www.fiverr.com/itstommynutter/mix-and-master-your-song-or-instrumental?arrived_from_manage_gigs=true&display_share=true  and I work with local artists who come to record at my home studio. If people need mixing and mastering, looking for crisp vocals and luscious reverbs, hard hitting kicks and deep full bass, they should visit itstommynutter.com Link Here https://itstommynutter.com/  and listen to the portfolio. I have all my prices listed and do special discounts for Albums or Demos.

I also try to write a blog post every now and again and make them a little bit different than your usual music blog. I try to be quite philosophical about the whole thing. Link Here https://itstommynutter.com/blog-2  

"I consider myself a creative person, on a journey with music by my side, trying to enjoy and learn as much about music as possible whilst fitting in real life problems like needing money to live. My journey leads me to meet people, and its so great to meet and talk to people who are similarly engrossed in this whole music thing, so if I can be of any assistance or help then I guess I'm an educator, but if left to my own devices I'm most definitely a producer, but that doesn't necessarily mean quantity over quality." 

I've been making beats for 4 years now, and learning to mix and master properly for about 3 and a half years, although I've been songwriting and playing guitar since being a young teenager. In my late teens I was also in a few Pop Punk Bands  and acoustic projects. 

MIXING AND MASTERING

If people want their song mixed or mastered its important for me to get the price conversation out of the way first. If I get a client who starts his story telling me he's had car troubles this month so cant afford to spend more than $25 to get his song mixed, then I plainly lay out what he's got to expect for his $25. More often than not, this guys songs are all about getting money and popping bottles.

Once were past that stage and hopefully I know the client takes their music career seriously, i like to get some of examples of the sounds they like, the artists they aspire to, and any inspirations or expectations they have about their vocal and the sound of the instrumental or drums. 

IMAGE BRANDING BY TOMMY NUTTER @ITSTOMMYNUTTER

M&M PROCESS

I usually do one mix after that and send the client a quickly mastered mp3 to gauge how they feel about it and if they have any further instruction. Sometimes they're completely happy, other times they just ask for small changes.

After that we repeat the process until they're happy, and I leave the mix for a few days before checking and mastering (if I'm doing the mastering too). At that point ill also make bus compression decisions depending on if the mix is getting sent on to a separate mastering engineer or not.

When the job is done, usually the client and I will continue to speak about their upcoming projects, what their plans are, and who they're working with at the moment, and usually I end up getting a little repeat business further down the road.

I do enjoy learning about my clients and I get to hear a lot of new styles of music and get to gauge what sounds people are into as well. Its very interesting to me and also helps out a lot with the music production side of things. 

music

I've always been a fan of pop punk, which led me to unplugged sessions where id see amazing artists doing live raw performances of songs I already knew.  I saw how songs could be changed and given different senses of intimacy and reality and just fell in love with acoustic singer songwriter type stuff.  I  love the new childish gambino album, it reminds me of pink floyd and the doors, but I still enjoy listening to korn every now and again. 

There's also mainstream songs and Pop songs that I love, so I don't think I have a specific genre I listen to.  As for hip hop, I will say that I've never been a lyrics kinda person, I tend to listen to the music way more than the lyrics, but even if the tune is bangin, I still cant stand certain tones of voice and find them unenjoyable to listen to. 

Image property of @itstommynutter

WALK-IN SONG 

I think it'd have to be superman by goldfinger. The brass in that makes me so happy and giddy, its just a bangin song for a real good happy time. All my friends would be there high fivin me, everyone would be smilin and eatin hot dogs and pizza. ye that'd be awesome. 

MENTORS 

I think elon musk is on the right track to better humanity, and I think neil degrasse tyson is doing his thing to keep us smart, I have people who I really  respect, but I think my main thing I look up to is my own plans. Every now and then I get a notepad, I draw a little stick figure in the middle, and lots of lines comin from it, and I write down what I want or what I want to achieve in the following months. It helps me focus and I get to decide my own future.

APPRECIATION

When working with an artist I'm looking for how devoted they are, and if they are in it for the passion of the music, or they just want the lifestyle. That usually defines how much work they wanna put in, but people are weird creatures, it takes me a while to figure them out. 

DAY IN THE LIFE

A typical day means waking up at 9am, drinking two coffees and watching youtube for an hour before I can function properly, then I start working on mixing for clients, taking breaks in between to do my correspondence or work on my website. Usually whatever project I'm working on takes however long it takes, and then I eat. Sometimes I forget. Then at about 9pm I'm usually in the mood to make a some beats or work on some beats that need finishing, and I get to bed at around 2am, although the big reference monitors have to go off at about 10.30 as I live in an apartment. 

PERFECT DAY

My perfect day would be spent mixing for major artists, still within my own home studio, but knowing that Im getting paid for my time means that id be able to put my everything into that mix, and at the end if I blow them away with the mix then I feel like I've accomplished greatness and I feel validated for the hours I've spent learning and grafting, and feel thankful that the time spent has made someone else so happy.

Image property of Tommy Nutter @itstommynutter

where may  we link up and follow your content?

TOMMY NUTTER OUTLETS

Buy/Lease Beats Instantly:               https://itstommynutter.beatstars.com/

Mixing and Mastering:                    https://itstommynutter.com/

Subscribe Here:                          https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChBzUxb8kzrNURO9ebC9xjg

Email:                                   info@itstommynutter.com for exclusive enquiry & questions

Twitter:                                 https://twitter.com/itstommynutter

Facebook:                                https://www.facebook.com/itstommynutter

Instagram:                               http://instagram.com/itstommynutter

Soundcloud:                              http://soundcloud.com/itstommynutter

thank you for following us @RAREFLAVR

WWW.RAREFLAVR.COM

image property of tommy nutter at @itstommynutter

image property of Tommy Nutter @itstommynutter

image property of @itstommynutter

image property of @itstommynutter

Artist Snapshot: MyNxGGAE (@MyNxGGAE)

Originality is THE QUALITY we seek before creating an Artist Snapshot on our blog.  We work to find artists with unique capabilities, style, and sound; We respect the hustle and people with " RareFlavr "

 #rareflavr #RF

 Pop-culture typically has a common theme with music and what makes a "hit".

Our goal is to find artists who sound nothing like what's trending and are in it to make dope music without copying style. 

Artists who create content for what they think is cool rather than what's "trending" is what it's all about

The great thing about social media is that we are able to network with creatives all over the world. We value rare artists who create their own path and work hard to enhance their skills.

Recently, we had the opportunity to interview an intelligent Artist @MyNxggaE and asked him to share some knowledge, music, and gain some perspective on the industry and social awareness #share #rareflavr

MY NXGGA E

IMAGE PROPERTY OF @MYNXGGAE

IT ALL STARTS WITH INFLUENCE

"yea I've always had an interest in art and the overall creative process. As a kid I did oil painting, wrote short stories, played a few instruments (drums, cornet, sax). As I got older I got really into graphic design, photography. The biggest influence on me artistically is probably a combination of Langston Hughes and John Coltrane. Jazz was awe inspiring to me as a kid; the complexity, the unpredictability, it was truly soulful music. Thats what got me into playing sax. I got a big ass book of Langston Hughes poetry when I was in high school that man was truly a prolific writer defining social awareness. In a more modern sense Kanye has been HUGE for me. His work with the MPC is forever an inspiration to my production and arrangement. "

GEOGRAPHY

" No actually I was not born and raised in St. Louis. Both my parents are Jamaican. I was actually born in Milwaukee and grew up all over the country (WI, OH, MD, CA) to name a few; I actually went to 3 different high schools in 4 years. But I've been in STL for about 10 years now and it's played a very instrumental role in my social awareness. St. Louis has such a rich and storied black history from the ville and kinloch, historically strong black communities that survived segregation era to the harsh realities of East St. Louis, and the racial injustices plaguing the north city as well as St. Louis County in areas like Ferguson. And this is a history that is not singular to St. Louis but rather something I saw in Baltimore, Chicago, DC, NYC, etc. all across the country as I grew up; Black communities struggling to survive while in search of the American dream. " 

MENTORS, INSPIRATION, INTERESTS, AND INSTRUMENTS

"My musical influences are always changing depending on what music I'm currently fixating on, I think it's my ADD at work. Right now I'm on a synths kick so Devonte Hynes, Majid Jordan, Ryan Hemsworth; but overall Future, Pharrell, Drake, George Clinton, Linkin Park, J-Dilla, and Erykah Badu. The artist that speaks to me the most in music is by far Kanye West; watching him journey from college burnout backpack rapper to media mogul and all the bumps is between is inspiring; his producer/rapper/brand model changed not only the music industry but the fashion industry as well. Musically I feel like Kanye always exemplified what first peaked my interest in hip-hop, the complexity in the musical arrangements to the level of full classical compositions. Lyrically Kanye has always been both deeply personal and yet socially and culturally aware which is a difficult balance in the climate of the early 2000s.

PRODUCTION/EQUIPMENT/INFLUENCE

"Yea I started producing because I kinda have an obession with "cloud rap" like an other world production sound; I absolutely love my Akai MPC Studio best piece of equipment in my studio (even though I do have an MPC Live still working out the kinks the learning curve is crazy). I use my numark mixtrack controller for some chops. I usually do my own masters so i got my jbl monitors, steinberg audio interface, rode nt1 cuz rode mics are amazing for low resonating vocals, my bass guitar, and a fender amp for extra bass. As a Virgo I always favor the here and now over the past, I draw a lot of inspiration from 70s funk, 80s synths, 90s boom bap, but the music that speaks to me the most is the music I'm listening to now. Princess Nokia, Northeast Party House, The Neighborhood, NxWorries, Kaytranada, Steve Lacy, Smino, SZA, and Ravyn Lenae "

LIVE SHOWS, ENTERTAINMENT, STAGE PRESENCE, STUDIO SESSIONS

" Showcase Tour hit me up, I think they found my info on reverbnation. It was an amazing opportunity for an artists showcase, a nation-wide tour, but each stop being filled with 10+ Local Artists. The show was amazing first time I've performed since I had my first child so I was a bit nervous, but once I got on stage it was all muscle memory lol. I do everything I can to bring my audience into those late night studio sessions with me, so I chose tracks that I think translate well atmospherically. I am always impressed by the energy of live rock shows so I do all my vocals live no backing track, give the crowd something that sticks with them, memorialize the moment. Low-Key I'm cooking up on adding live elements to the song arrangement too (reference that MPC Live I mentioned earlier) and I've been working with a jazz fusion band of late so new things are coming soon. My favorite track to perform is probably That's My Nxgga Prod by @vaughnvibes. The beat has that classic boom bap/J-Dilla feel so it seems perfect to recreate the energy of The Get Down that I was obsessing over at the time I first heard the beat. It has some good call and response portions to get the crowd involved and then showcases my lyrical ability and range well. Yea I'm glad you caught the easter egg of The Store Run; it was a track I made inspired by the nostalgia of me and my less reputable cousins stepping out during thanksgiving to hit the "store run" and come back eyes redder than the devil is and ready to eat lmao. So it was just something creative to commemorate the season; I like making tracks that are real conceptual sometimes. I produced the beat and then just freestyled in rounds like how you take turns spitting over the radio in the car during the hotbox. "

My Nxgga E - "We Jammin" Black Friday Cypher @ 2720 Cherokee St Louis, MO

PERSONAL BRANDS/ UPCOMING PROJECTS

"Negus is my own creation a combination of lifestyle brand and multimedia company. It represents my internal struggle for identity as a black man in America. Negus is the amharic word for king a or a god a title given to rules of Ethiopia the only African country to not be colonized; however it also phonetically is pronounced much like niggas the racial epithet meant to strip black people of the value in our ancestral heritage. Negus is actually the name of my next project, a self produced EP slated to drop this summer. I've been working on this project for 2-3 years now so I've been teasing about it in visuals and making merch to self-fund production costs. The Champion collaboration I did with Negus for the Store Run/Thank You hoodies was just extra sauce cause the track felt like it fit the season so well I needed something to physically commemorate the experience. "

ADVICE FOR YOUNG ARTISTS, STAGE PRESENCE

" Honestly repetition is the father of all learning. I think practicing your material constantly allowing your music to become just muscle memory is key. I treat the lyrics almost like a mantra, reminding myself of the feeling and emotions that I poured into the music so that i can best portray them in my delivery. I'd also say that working the stage is key; having an understanding of how to have good stage presence can go a long way. Negus was made for live shows so while I do have video treatments formulating for a few of the songs, my first step is to bring the material to a live audience likely through a listening session our live showcase this summer in conjunction with the projects release. "

mynxggae.com

FUTURE OF MUSIC

"The future of music looks bright I see the elements of hip-hop being rearranged not only by the popularity of EDM but also due to the rise of urban contemporary music. I think groups like NxWorries give rebirth to atmospheric hip hop, the latest class of MPC producers (Kaytranada, Sango, Knxwledge) are proof that the legacy of JDilla lives and breathes in a newer generation. The future of the music industry however is on an interesting path. For better or worse the culture IS changing. The release of music has been drastically effected by the success of streaming platforms. Despite the best attempts at combating the diminishing market such as Beyonce Lemonade album releasing with no marketing seemed to only slowed the inevitable; and thus new platforms, and business models must be built. Fashion has always been an important outlet for musicians to display their creativity but the collaboration strategy has given what was mostly a marketing strategy real teeth allowing for strong gains for brands like adidas, supreme and puma putting their product in front of larger audiences and giving them access to a greater range of materials to create from. "

IMAGE PROPERTY OF @MYNXGGAE http://mynxggae.tumblr.com/

photo property of @mynxggae recreated by @rareflavr

Make sure have a listen to some of his tracks on Soundcloud above or here: My NXGGAE Soundcloud. Our favorite Track is the Store Run Freestyle- think the beat has the hip hop feel and the flow is original.  Also, the Leave Y'all Track feat the instrumental of Future's "Percocets and Strippers" 

Make sure you check out 3AM in the CHI the sample is fantastic "houston atlanta vegas" sample is on point

We are grateful had the opportunity to create this artist snapshot and learn more about the influence of @mynxggae. If you Have a listen to some of the projects he has released on soundcloud feel free to like and share the music. Thankfully we are able to learn more each day about artists, the creative process and enjoying the talent and creative influence. Feel free to share this post and check out the instagram links below. -RAREFLAVR 

FOLLOW @MYNXGGAE ON INSTAGRAM

PHOTO PROPERTY OF @MYNXGGE ON INSTAGRAM.COM

FOLLOW @MYNXGGAE ON TWITTER

image property of @mynxggae on Twitter

RAREFLAVR

"DETACH FROM THE MASSES"

photo property of @mynxggae recreated by @rareflavr

If you stumble upon a great artist or unique artist with creative abilities do not hesistate to direct them to our website and submit here or tag @rareflavr on social media. 

VISIT THE RAREFLAVR SHOP

Artist Snapshot: LARCIN (@_LARCIN_)

INSTAGRAM @RAREFLAVR . photo @_larcin_

From Poland to the U.S.A. @_Larcin_ is a hip-hop artist that has a unique personality and story. Larcin was originally born in Poland and came to the USA when he was 8 years old and moved three times before finally settling in in Park Ridge IL with his family. He has been associated with music his entire life. He began playing piano at 10 years old and sang in his Church Choir until he was 16 years old. During his teenage years he also picked up guitar. 

@_Larcin_ on Instagram

He started writing rhymes when he was 16-17 years old and At 17, he was arrested for possession of weed and was sent to Cook County.   The administration at Cook forgot to input his bail, So he had to stay in jail for 4 days. Although he has had some challenges along the way, there is still music to be made and we took some time to learn about his motivation and upcoming projects. 

In the beginning, Larcin wrote raps on his phone until one of his friends @SAPA INCA took him to the studio.  About 6 months ago he started to think of rap names. That is where LARCIN was created. Before that, his first rap name was herb-- all of his close friends called him HERB from ages 12 and at 19 changed it to MARCIN The dream and at 22 LARCIN.

More Recently, the projects he's working on is an ep called, "Life Aint What it Seems"EP that is coming out in mid February with Features from brewski, sapa inc and blunt gutta.

 

Larcin was raised by polish parents who are very against drugs and very religoius but very musical.  His influence comes from first ever rap D12 my band and 50 cent in the club then fell in love with hiphop and rap. He has been expanding his musical ear ever since but lover of 90s and 2000s rap the most. 

He mentioned he listens to alot of Jim Rohn who is a motivational speaker and who has a lot of inspiration in his life. and gets a lot of inspiration looking for and listening to people and see how their lives everyone has traveled a different journey and it's cool to see where they came from.

"i try to be original but i love different kinds of music not just rap i listen to a little bit of everything except country" -larcin

What do you look for in music what do you appreciate the most that most people take for granted?

"I look to make something that can catch people's ear something that can get stuck in people's heads so they come back and listen to it again and have that tune in their head all day long! I try to appreciate the little things and be happy with what i have now because i know that so many people in the world have it so much worse than me. My favorite quote,"its better to be prepared for an opportunity and not have one, then to have an opportunity and not be prepared"- Whitney Young

 

"Behind Larcin is just a kid that's trying to leave a mark in the world and help as many people as I can to get where they want to get in life."- Larcin

What to expect next coming weeks

The "Life ain't what it seems ep" with features from brewski and sapa inca and blunt gutta and a couple of singles dropped after the ep.

Thank you for following, purchasing, living and sharing @Rareflavr

Artist Snapshot: TRAKKSOUNDS (@trakksounds)

Image Property of Trakksounds. Redesigned by @Rareflavr

Garrett Brown, TRAKKSOUNDS (@Trakksounds) is a Music Producer and Recording Engineer from the City of Houston, TX. We discovered his music while networking on Instagram and we are able to share with some information on his current projects, influences, and advice for young producers. You can see that Garrett has built himself up in the game and we are grateful to feature this Artist Snapshot today featuring Trakksounds.

www.trakksounds.com

Out Right Now is his Collaborative Project called, "The Other Side". This project features artists who have over 57 Million views on  YouTube. Some of the more well-known he has worked with include:  T2 Ghetto Hippie, Kirko Bangz, Devin the Dude, and Dizzy Wright.  

click image to visit "The Other Side"

----------------------------------TRACKSOUNDSS shared some of his interest in music, influences, and advice for young producers starting out in the game---------------------------------------------------------------------

Image property of Trakksounds (Trakksounds.com)

What was the music scene like for you growing up in Texas? What got you influenced into music? Any Specific band, movie, etc? 

"The Music Scene for us is very diverse. We have a strong Rock, Soul, and Hip-Hop influence so I grew up on things like UGK and ZZ Top which is a crazy combo lol. My dad played guitar, harmonica, and sang so I always had music all around me. My favorite artist is Jay-Z and favorite producer is Timbaland so watching those two made my inspiration go through the roof. All my friends were getting into rapping or different things so I just kinda naturally slid into making beats. " - Trakksounds

Image property of @Trakksounds Instagram

OH LORD (REMIX)- TRAKKSOUNDS FT. GT GARZA, KILLA KYLEON, AND DOEMAN

instagram links

IG @trakksounds

IG @itzgarza

IG @doemanxdyna

IG @killakyleon

We noticed you've worked with some big named rappers and singers. What was that transition looking like starting from making beats in High School to featuring artists like 2 Chainz and Scarface?

"Man it kinda just started happening because i was so persistent on the internet. I was hitting people every day like let me send beats, let me send beats, let me send beats lol. Eventually the 2 Chainz placement happened and I just kept at it. Every little placement opened the doors for my big placements and I worked with a lot of up and comers before my first big track so I was just staying patient because I could feel it coming"

- Trakksounds

That's sick persistence was the key. Is your studio set up in Houston? Do you do a home studio or somewhere you rent out or someone you know own a studio? Or mostly remote traveling w/ your studio? 

"I have a home studio and a like office studio called IMIX Studios that I bring clients to and did a lot of my biggest tracks there in Houston." - Trakksounds

Nice what is your favorite Kit to use? Drums trumpets, organs, 808's etc and why? Also, what types of equipment is essential for a successful session?"  

"My favorite kits are probably my own that I make from random sounds lol. I have all types of random equipment in sessions from keyboards, guitars, talkboxes, percussion, etc. But gotta have a keyboard only mainly and I can make it happen. I can even use my laptop keyboard and make some tracks."

- Trakksounds

On Trakksound's YouTube Channel, he not only showcases tracks he has made but also a glimpse into the actual creative process. If you are interested in learning about that creative process check out his YouTube Channel Here. As well as a quick "The Other Side Documentary" 

What would you say is some important advice for aspiring producers and young artists? What has been a key to your success? 

"I would be ready to do a lot of unpaid or way below what  you think is your value because at this point you have to build your name as a producer as much as an artist and brand yourself. " - Trakksounds

Image Property of : http://www.musicproductioncamp.com/what-we-do

Not only does Trakksounds produce music, but he teaches music as well. He provides hands-on training for producers of all skillsets.  

Last year he offered online training as well as in-person training to teach producer fundamentals. This includes techniques inside AND outside the studio including: Production, Songwriting, Networking, How to get paid, and more.

Click here to visit Trakksound's Music Production Workshop to discover the skills you need to be on top of your game!

Image Property of Trakksounds.com/Shop Click Image to visit Shop!!!!

As you can see persistence has been one of the major factors of Trakksound's success and progression as well as his ability to teach music. If you follow Trakksounds on Instagram you can see he even landed song placements on TV. Most recently a track he produced called "Drug$" by himself, HeartBeat'z group called "Funk In the Trunk" , Sydney Jane ,  and was placed by Dynamic Producer  on TNT's show Claws.  Follow @trakksounds on Twitter to Find out more information and make sure you share the article!

Image Property of Trakksounds (trakksounds.com)

Thank you for viewing this Artist Snapshot! Let us know what you think below and if you would like us to review your music or share your content futher please send us a message.Check out our shop at rareflavrshop.com. Also, thank you for all of the comments, likes, and shares thus far! Enjoy #rareflavr #dftm

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LYRICAL TRACK!!!!!!

Artist Snapshot: STLNDRMS (@STLNDRMS)

"EITHER YOU WORK HARD FOR IT OR YOU DON'T WORK HARD FOR IT"

STLNDRMS

2017 GREATLY WELCOMES @STLNDRMS (<---STLNDRMS.COM):  "beat maker/Ex Power Ranger", (stlndrms.com/bio)**. "Libra, Likes long walks thru the city, favorite foods- Canned Beans, Sticky Rice, and Vegan Brownies. Favorite Color-Blue. Horrible Skater. Host of Beats+Chill  , Maker of Wavy Sounds, Spreader of Love" (stlndrms.com/bio)**.

RAREFLAVR.COM had an opportunity to ask STLNDRMS some questions and learn more about himself and projects he has out currently and what he plans for the future.

DON'T LEAVE YOUR DRUMS AROUND STLNDRMS!

VIDEO BELOW- SOURCE

YOUTUBE- CHILLHOP

 The Process of making hip-hop beats or any other form of modern music through technology typically involves a production process. Hip-Hop beats are typically made with kits, sounds, external instruments, and or samples from vinyl or previously recorded tracks which are produced on a new track and layered with more tracks. This way you can bring music to life and add your own sound. The name STLNDRMS comes from his specialty to find the right quality drums from records and make them his own! 

 The chill vibe and rarity of the music is what was intriguing for us to feature and we learned that STLNDRMS has been making beats for over 10 years. He currently hosts his own show on his  facebook page called Beats+Chill. Also, he has been seen hosting on the up and coming website/show/beatconnect called Chillhop.  

 The Samples he enjoys to use the most are from a genre of the 60's called,  Brazilian Soul  because of the groove and mellow vibes that it creates #RAREFLAVR. As far as his specialty on the drums he prefers the sounds and liking of Al Green.

"As far as drums I always liked the drums on al green records...they have some mojo to them man..." -STLNDRMS

Currently He drops about two tapes per month, so be on the lookout and follow his bandcamp, instagram, facebook, twitter, and  youtube  ! Right now has his new tape out called, 'BLUE STREET' . We asked him about the title and he explained that he has lived in Japan and there was a strip he walked almost every morning called blue street. It seems a lot of his inspiration comes from cityscapes. If you view his instagram you can see images of the city vibe and it seems to play a part in his life. 

 Along with music he used to be a freelance photographer and explained that he enjoyed to take a piece of the landscape and turn it into something of your own creatively. He uses the same aspect and method for inspiration in his music as well.

CITYSCAPES VIA @stlndrms instagram

Click Image to follow @STLNDRMS

Along with music he used to be a freelance photographer and explained that he enjoyed to take a piece of the landscape and turn it into something of your own creatively. He uses the same aspect and method for inspiration in his music as well.

LISTEN TO 'BLUE STREET' BY STLNDRMS

Blue Street is a tape that definitely captures his type of sound and can be perfect for all types of listeners. From the sample of the motivational young man on youtube on "Work", to a quote from American Gangster by Denzel Washington on "Nobody", and a quote from Dr. Lara Boyd on "Neuroplasticity"  there is a wide variety of influence and sound.

Click the above link to listen to Blue Street or Visit STLNDRM's bandcamp here

We asked about the fashion world and as far as fashion goes he mentioned, "90% GoodWill" .  Also he mentioned a clothing line titled, Aliens Worldwide which is dropping on February 25th, 2017 owned and operated by one of his friends which you can link up with below. 

STLNDRMS friend dropping clothing line 2.25.17 ALIENSWORLDWIDE.COM

There will be more projects dropping by @stlndrms so be on the lookout and follow his pages on social media and collaborations with other pages such as Chillhop. Also Feel free to get in contact for bookings, beats, features and more at STLNDRMS.COM

It is obvious you either work hard or don't work hard for it, we will let you be the judge!

stlndrms.com

stlndrms.com

stlndrms.com

**WORKS CITED WWW.STLNDRMS.COM/BIO https://stlndrms.bandcamp.com/album/tillman-st https://stlndrms.bandcamp.com/album/odyssey-of-the-mind https://stlndrms.bandcamp.com/album/short-days-long-nights https://stlndrms.bandcamp.com/album/last-nights-session https://stlndrms.bandcamp.com/track/twilight https://stlndrms.bandcamp.com/track/hurry https://www.facebook.com/stlndrms/videos/1700969660123776/ https://stlndrms.bandcamp.com/album/last-nights-session https://stlndrms.bandcamp.com/track/twilight https://stlndrms.bandcamp.com/track/hurry ttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=exQ2bMPc0dA https://stlndrms.bandcamp.com/album/blue-street

rareflavr bold 17' worldwide hoodie

Artist Snapshot: PURPLE DIALECT (@PDIALECT)

Hello, World! Click Play and Read On

Purple Dialect- 'Leaves' (click image to listen) Image:Luke Novel

@Purple_Dialect (IG) is an artist from the Philadelphia, PA suburbs in the process of creating dope content. We had an opportunity to find out more about his current projects. Purple Dialect is an artist in collaboration with Us Natives Records (About Us Natives) which is a group, label, family, beat culture, and future backpack group. The group Consists of Ill Clinton and John E. Cab. Also, Luke Novel has played a big part in his creativity who has supplied him with creative artwork. Currently, Purple Dialect has a shop, beat tapes, as well as a rap tape Titled, 'Leaves'  available on band camp.

'Leaves' Image: Luke Novel

The meaning behind the name Purple Dialect is a play on "purple prose" which is when authors uses elaborative words without necessarily having to.- He felt that that was the case when rapping, freestyling and coming up with lyrics/tracks/recording. Purple Dialect started making raps early around age 13 and started by playing base guitar, and making punk rock music with his friends.  Some of the main influences growing up were De La Soul & The Beastie Boys. Also, A Tribe Called Quest and  were the main influences to motivate in making hip-hop music. On his Instagram you can see that he does freestyles and uses machines and microphones to do live recordings. He mentioned he is most comfortable using the Roland SP404sx and MASCHINE.

image (purple dialect)

Purple Dialect via instagram.com/rareflavr

Click for All Information on Purple Dialect & 'Leaves' Available on BandCamp (click image)

As far as collaborations PD is open to collaborations online with underground artists and others which share his vision.  Ultimately, he mentioned he would love to collaborate with MF DOOM if possible. We asked, "Is there anything in particular that creates inspiration for your music?" Purpled Dialect Replied, " I just love hip-hop. It's tied up with comic books and film in my mind. It's like a jumbled mess but it turns into this aesthetic that feels dope to me at least. It's Therapy. Can't feel too bad if you just made a beat that sounds dope." 

Click To Buy Purple Dialect music on GooglePlay

Click To listen to Purple Dialect on Spotify

Click to listen to Purple Dialect on iTunes

Click to purchase 'Leaves' on Amazon

click image to watch video

SHOP 100 MILLION HOODIE NOW! (CLICK IMAGE)

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Artist Snapshot: CLUTCHBOY KUMA (@CLUTCHBOYKUMA)

Being reliable is a skill and @Clutchboykuma has delivered. Combining worlds in music is a challenge and we found Clutchboy Kuma does just that. #RareFlavr had a chance to interview Kuma to learn about his influences, creative process, and goals for the future in collaborations.

   Akuma known as "clutchboy" and Kuma grew up in Nigeria West Africa and now lives in Maryland and Newark, Delaware. He moved to the east coast and was given the name "Clutchboy" Kuma for his reliability and clutch-ness. Throughout high school he started making music and enjoyed listening to a variety of artists including: Lil' Wayne, Drake, Led Zeppelin, Travis Scott, Kanye West, Sisqo, Aaliyah, and anything Timbaland had a credit on. #RareFlavr noticed a tone to his music  , which seems very cinematic, mood induced, and creative.  

Please Press Play in Browser, Listen, and Continue Article Below

Kuma's interest in movies a big are a big influencer on his creative process; Ranging from the likings of Movie soundtracks including Transformers and Gladiator. His favorite movies include The Godfather, The Matrix, Oldboy, and Inception; a diverse catalog hence the title of his instrumental album, Mood Swings . Kuma mentioned, "Mood swings reflects my new transition in sound design. I want my music to be able to change and reflect the moods of the listeners as well as the producer." 

 The melodies and harmonies of his music stems from his African roots, but as far as the artwork and connection the history and culture of Baltimore plays a big part. The process of writing lyrics starts from observation and gaining intelligence reading. On the structure of songs, he takes a big credit in Orchestral Movie Soundtracks. Currently he uses some of his favorite programs/equip. to produce including:  FL studio, Cubase, Abelton, Akai Mini Keyboards, and Moog Analog Synthesizers. Overall,  he mentioned the importance of being consistent, adaptive, and open to new ideas are what will help him always connect with the people who listen to his music. 

 Currently he has several projects open to collaborate on. Kuma is looking for artists open to new creative ideas without a genre. Artists that can bring consistency,lyricism, talent and the "90s bounce" combined with sounds of the future. . Overall, his goal is to change the way we interpret music.

Get in Contact with  @ClutchboyKuma today on Instagram, Twitter, and Soundcloud 

"Detach from the Masses"- RareFlavr

Click Image to Follow @clutchboykuma on Soundcloud

instagram.com/clutchboykuma

twitter.com/clutchboykuma

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