What would you say is your greatest talent or skill? How have you developed and demonstrated that talent over time?
Making music is my greatest talent. I have been producing hip-hop music for almost four years now while studying from the greats--J Dilla, Timbaland, and the Neptunes. Initially, I made music that was unmixed, lacking musical elements, and missing structure. After spending hours creating songs, I felt frustrated when my music did not sound as good as I had originally thought. However, despite the crudeness of my first material, I still found value in my compositions, and I persisted to create. The more I practiced, the more I noticed an improvement in the quality of my music.
As my music-making skills progressed, I opened up a SoundCloud account, which provided a platform for me to share my music with other like-minded individuals. After releasing my debut extended play (EP), a collection of my original instrumentals, I saw a rapid increase in the number of people listening to and purchasing my music. Gradually, many of my favorite producers and rappers -- the same ones I initially studied -- started to recognize my productions. I was able to collaborate with many of these inspirational, upcoming producers and rappers. My music has been featured regularly on local radio stations like FM 90.5 KSJS, which has led to many interviews with these stations. My songs have also been promoted on well-known electronic music blogs and media platforms like NESTHQ and Bass Nation. The collaborations, interviews, and features have allowed me to grow as a producer and motivated me to further my efforts. I even started the music production club in my high school to spread my passion to over 50 students that regularly attend.
When I first got into music, I was unaware of where it would take me. Music has become a significant part of my life; while it is not my intended major, I plan to continue my musical endeavors in my free time during college. Alongside building a fanbase on internet music platforms and selling my material online for people to enjoy, I hope to begin DJing and doing live performances of my own music.