|
At 15, Smokey D took to the Jefferson High School stage for a talent show nervously delivering a performance over A Mary Jane Girls’ sample provided by G Man Stan. From there, Smokey realized that he had the talent and drive to propel himself into hip hop’s history and he never looked back. During my time with the multi-dimensional artist I gained a tremendous amount of respect for him as a man. Repeatedly he made it clear that he wants to leave a legacy that he realizes can only be accomplished via hard work & unwavering determination.
As he told me of the first CD that he purchased himself (Dr Dre’s The Chronic) and how he played it until it had no life left in it, the look in his eyes told more of the tale. It was as if he had been transported back to that time. As if the moment that music became important to him. When it fused with his DNA and began coursing through his veins. As the conversation progressed, I learned that he was also an Ice Cube fan and an overall fan of Bay area music during the time. I was also given a brief history on the musical history of the Bay Area and the styles, names and concepts that have been stolen from the area. As he remained in a state of nostalgia, he revealed that his current musical inspirations are the people (past & present) in his life. He wants to help people not only with his lyrics, but with his actions as success comes his way. With professional aspirations to collaborate with artists such as: Wayne, Jay Z, Method Man, Redman, Scarface, Snoop, Beanie Segal, Styles P , Sheek Louch, Trina, Remy Ma, and Nicki Minaj; Smoke D also wants to help the communities of the Bay Area.
His discontent with others that have become successful and never took to look back or give back to the places that offered refuge and inspiration was immediately evident. Smokey is one artist that is more action than talk. On July 31, Smokey’s company, HighWildYoung, will be assisting the non-profit organization, WOIEP, in a show at Willow Park, Calif. In addition to the show on that day, free exams will be offered to women via a mobile breast cancer unit. While most artists that I encounter choose to boost their own egos and proclaim how great they are, Smokey told me more about his slain brother, how his cousin has been influential in his life. How he wants to be a model example to his son. How he wants to be in a position to assist when and where needed.
Last August, Smokey began his company and is beginning to get the recognition and buzz is so properly deserves. A collaboration with HighWildYoung means that you will have lyricists, DJ’s, producers, a photographer and graphic design immediately scratched off your list. His open-mindedness and versatility will be introduced (fully) to all via his upcoming release, “San Frantastic”. Smokey describes the November release as his coming out release (although this would mark his 3rd CD). This release will reaffirm his desire to never conform to the status quo while remaining relevant and accessible to the masses. His company motto says it all, “Your vision, is our sight."
Check out Smokey D’s music @:
datpiff.com/SmokeyD
myspace.com/youngsh00t3r
reverbnation.com/youngsh00t3r
myspace.com/HighWildYoung
indiecharts.com/highwildyoung
myspace.com/SmokeyD
Check out Smokey D’s graphic designs @:
www.twitter.com/cincitaz (he did a wonderful job with my background)
www.epx.carbonmade.com
|
