VOLUME 17
Contents
This month’s highlights include “CHH HitMakers,” + the Producer’s Roundtable including nominated producers, On Repeat, Fire x Gas or Pass, Tip Jar and so much more. REGULARS
6 BREAKING NEWS 11 ON REPEAT 12 INCOMING 24 EDITOR’S LETTER 30 ARTIST ON THE RYZE 44 CHH HITMAKERS 66 TIP JAR 70 FIRE x GAS OR PASS 73 FOR YOUR GRAMMY CONSIDERATION
AT A GLANCE
BREAKING NEWS: Lecrae’s Restoration pg. 6 INCOMING: Producers Roundtable 2020 Plusforty8 pg. 12 ELEV3N pg. 16 Firetracks pg. 21 SPECIAL: Andy Mineo “Jackson Pollock Tik Tok Challenge” Winner pg. 28 ARTIST ON THE RYZE Porsha Love pg. 30 MainMain pg. 37 CHH HITMAKERS OnBeatMusic pg. 44 Sam Peezy pg. 49 Marv4 MoBeats pg. 52 Spechouse pg. 57 DJ Mykael V. pg. 60
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Restoration B R E A K I N G
With his 9th studio album, Restoration, the book I Am Restored, How I Lost My Religion but Gained My Faith, and 3-part YouTube video narrative, The Road to Restoration, out now, Lecrae takes audiences deeper formulating two of the most powerful words “I Am” with deeper revelation into his journey into the Restoration of relationship with God and “Self Discovery,” the 6th single released from the album. During his VEVO Ctrl.At.Home Live Session, filmed at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights in Atlanta, GA, Lecrae reflected on the personal restoration journey that made 6 RYZE NOVEMBER 2020
N E W S
him question his faith. “I went through a mental, emotional, and spiritual breakdown that took me off solid ground. It was on “Self Discovery” that I realized that my relationship with God needed to be just that, relational! It wasn’t my devotion to God that got me where I am, but His devotion to me.” If you need Restoration or you’re trying to pick up the pieces in your life, grab the album, book, and watch The Road To Restoration. Take a step inside his reflection and insight on developing deeper intimacy with God despite pain and brokenness. Visit Lecrae.com for more information.
Backstage...
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EDITORIAL Review Editors: Jay & Chris Brooks Editor-At-Large: David Quinones Managing Editor: Aulsondro “Novelist” Hamilton aka Emcee N.I.C.E. Editor-in-Chief: Enaysha (Naé) Thompson Valentine
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INCOMING Plusforty8 (Mixing /Mastering)
Clientele: Jered Sanders, Dj LostNFound, Th3 Saga, Parris Chariz, Xay Hill, Nameless Servant Contact: vibewithme48@gmail.com
CHH HITMAKERS ROUNDTABLE 2020
power on, the mic will not work. I believe the same goes for believers. We are the microphone, the instrument, and without God’s power, we cannot work.
Dominic Mendoza is a music engineer from the Mesa, AZ mastering scene. He began his career as a production student, but when he discovered mixing and mastering he knew he’d found his passion. Much of what he’s learned comes from his three-and-a-half-year paid workstudy while pursuing a Bachelor’s of Fine Art in Audio Production at Collins College, Mesa AZ. His studio name, Plusforty8, is a reference to phantom power (+48) that’s required to use a condenser microphone. If you have a condenser microphone, but you don’t have phantom
What made you want to produce? I lost my father in 2009. The weight of life hurt, and pain seemed to be released in the music. I feel like I’m super introverted in many ways, and music allows me to express myself through detail, feeling, and emotion. It’s always been therapeutic for me. Who were your early inspirations/influencers? I grew up listening to a lot of Lil Wayne, J. Cole, and Lecrae. I also loved Motown, especially the Temptations. My dad would always bump the Temps on 12 RYZE NOVEMBER 2020
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the weekends. Those songs always stuck with me. When did you know you wanted to do CHH or jump into faith-based music production? In 2009 I started writing raps/poems which I now recognize as prayers. I would express myself to God and lay it all out. I was highly influenced by Prayin’ For You by Lecrae. What matters to you most when working with artists? I believe that communication, and building a relationship with artists is the most important aspect of music. Music is collaborative. Bringing creative ideas, thoughts, perspectives, and unique life experiences into one song, one moment. It’s beautiful. And when you’re being creative with people you enjoy working with, and have built friendships with l, there is nothing like it. What artists have you worked with? I have worked with artists such as Warren Christian, Artificial Christian, Jodie Jermaine, Weez The Satellite Kiid, Conscious Hip Hop, AB, Blaze Johnson Jr., JusRzd, and Kiahree. I’ve also been grateful to mix features such as Parris Chariz, Jered Sanders, Shiwan, Xay Hill, Th3 Saga, Phil J, Nameless Servant, Uzuna, Mission, and many more. I just mixed a full feature album called Caesura for Dj LostNFound that has a whole line up. What would you like to achieve with your production ministry? My goal is to build relationships and create dope music that impacts each listener. Never know who is going to hear the record, and how it’s going to impact their life, just like Prayin’ For You did for me. Where do you feel the Christian Hip Hop culture is today vs. Secular Hip Hop? I believe music is music. It’s an expression, a message, a moment that is captured. Some music is for hype and turn up, some is conscience, some is impactful, etc. Over the years I have seen these two worlds collide. I see the trends of “secular” music overlap with the “Christian” realm. I’m not for saying that’s a good or a bad thing, but 14 RYZE NOVEMBER 2020
at the end of the day, I believe if you’re making music that is inspiring and impactful to you, then there is no need to label it here or there. What can we expect from you in 2021? A lot more mixes and projects, and the growth of the overall sound quality of each record I mix. Name some of your hit records. The biggest song I’ve mixed is probably Honey by Jodie Jermaine. It has over 200k streams on Spotify alone. What other producers, songwriters, and/or artists do you see as your primary inspirations? I would say I look up to other engineers like Dave Pensado, and Jaycen Joshua. They are top-notch mixers and I strive to get my mixes sounding as good as theirs. Do you have advice for any individual who wants to become a music producer? I would say go after it. Learn the ins and outs of your DAW, and experiment. If you stay consistent the growth will be shown for itself. If you’re looking to mix, train your ears to understand the frequency spectrum, balance, feel, and tonality. If you’re looking to produce, learn arrangement, melody, and sound selection. Knowing this will lead to a great mix. What would you like consumers and fans to take away from your music? When someone hears the songs I want them to feel the message, or? I want them to have experienced the same feeling the producer felt making it, the artist felt writing it, and I felt mixing it. I want to bring those all together To create a captivating and impactful record. What’s your prayer for the CHH community as we deal with the social and racial unrest? I pray that we can all join together as one, have the strength and courage to fight back for what’s right, and represent the Kingdom of God as Christ would. Social Media, where can we find you? Find me on Instagram @plusforty8
INCOMING
ELEV3N
(Producer) Clientele: Bri Smilez Contact: elev3n.music@ gmail.com “STUDYING THEIR STYLE AND COMEric Zayas has been POSITION WAS LIKE around music his entire GOING TO SCHOOL life. He dove into the FOR MY MUSIC MASmusic scene as a DJ in TER’S DEGREE.” high school in the early and mid-’90s. His desire to make music that captivates stems from two of the world’s greatest to ever do it, Roger Troutman from Zapp and Roger and the one and only DRE! “Studying their style and composition,” was like going to school for my Master’s degree.” What made you want to produce? I love music. I love to make music. I look at it the same way a painter paints portraits, making something out of a blank canvas. The artist displays what’s going on inside his head, it’s the same way with music, I produce the music I hear inside my head so the whole world can listen to what I’m thinking.
Fun Fact: Eric Zayas is the older brother of emerging CHH artist Bri Smilez.
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How did you come up with or get your name? I chose the name ELEV3N because the Bible shares the 11th hour means preparation before the final hour; the hour of the messenger to relay the message that Jesus is coming so get ready. I believe I’m one of the messengers relaying the message through my music for people to choose their path before it’s too late. Who were your early inspirations/ influencers? My Grandfather and my Mom, they have a real love and appreciation for music.
When did you know you wanted to do CHH or jump into faith-based music production? My sister Bri Smilez convinced me to get back to producing music. I stopped for a few years after becoming a correctional officer. But this time I’m pursuing music for a greater cause and purpose. Once I started producing faith-based music it was a wrap. Describe your musical style? I’d say my musical identity or flavor would be a 90’s flow to it with a twist of 2020. Too many producers and artist sound-alike right now, I feel like the creativity of producing Hip Hop is kind of watered down at the moment, everything just sounds the same to me. What would you like to achieve with your production ministry? I’d like to utilize my music ministry to showcase music that inspires people to want to do better with their lives, finances, and most importantly their relationship with GOD. Should one attempt to produce “Hits’ all the time”? My working style is work hard or go home, simple as that. The music industry whether CHH or Secular waits for no one! You have to be ready and stay ready at all times. I think you should produce everything as if it’s the next “Hit” song, nothing you do should be mediocre period. Where do you feel the Christian Hip Hop culture is today vs. the Secular Hip Hop scene? I think the CHH culture is sadly being overlooked and not taken seriously to a certain extent. Don’t get me wrong there are a few heavy hitters in CHH that are making moves but they are not selling out stadiums and huge venues like secular artists are. Why do you think that is? because in my opinion CHH is being put in a box, told where they can and can’t perform. Why are CHH artists not performing on the same stages with ICE CUBE, SNOOP, or DRAKE??? those are the people that CHH artists should be rapping to but instead
they are kept in a box, booked at churches and/ or small Christian venues. In my opinion that’s the problem.. we’re forced to perform at faithbased shows only why is that?? The people who are lost, dealing with depression, thoughts of suicide, or drug addictions are the ones we are kept away from. There has to be CHH artists that are willing to go into the lion’s den and perform to these people with absolutely no fear of what people are going to say or think! CHH artists need to be performing on the same stage and same size magnitude of venues as secular artists’ bottom line! How are we supposed to spread the Word when all we do is perform for each other!? Who have you been listening to recently? Of course my sister Bri Smilez, my boy Harmini, Ryhan Lamarr, Lecrae, Datin, Bumps, Jack Red, Social Club Misfits, and Bizzle there’s a lot of really good artists in CHH. What’s your prayer for the CHH community as we deal with the social and racial unrest? My prayer for the CHH community is, Heavenly Father we come to you as a group of artists that want nothing more than to awakening the blind to see the injustice and separation the enemy has tried to blindfold the world with and keep us divided amongst each other. Let us come together no matter our race, skin color, or religion as one and love each other the way you do Lord. Let our music soak into the hearts and souls of every nation spreading your Word to all corners of the world exposing your love for us and your promise for eternal life and as our music reigns out to the heavens glorifying your name and kingdom let no man’s eye see the difference in color or race nor diversity and to come together as one to heal our land, our hearts, and our souls...Amen What’s something we’d never guess about you? That I’m bilingual, fluent in Spanish, I’m so light-skinned with green eyes that most people think I’m Caucasian... lol Where can we find you socially? @ e_lev3n_ NOVEMBER 2020 RYZE 19
INCOMING Firetracks (Producer)
Clientele: Jyoungsfl, Duke Royale, Nolan Taylor, Patrice Cetrine, and Emily Ballhouse to name a few Contact: hitmenproductiongroup@gmail.com David McEwan aka Firetracks is NY born, South FL raised, and super hot on the tracks; receiving the majority of the RYZE Magazine CHH Hitmakers nominations we had to get him for this edition. What made you want to produce? I like anything creative so marrying my love for the creative process and music made it a no-brainer (lol). What’s your musical background? I’m a musician since childhood. I played drums as my first instrument for my church, then bass, piano, organ, sax, trumpet, and tuba while in band throughout school. How did you come up with or get your name? Various artists that I was working with started telling me “Dave, your tracks are fire”… then a friend of mine said you need to just call yourself Firetracks and from there it was born. Who were your early inspirations/influencers? Rodney Jerkins, The Underdogs, Timbaland, Teddy Riley, and more. When did you know you wanted to do CHH or jump into faithbased music production? NOVEMBER 2020 RYZE 21
I always loved hip hop and wished that CHH music wasn’t so “corny” in the 90s. As the genre grew and I got serious about turning my life around, I started listening to Andy Mineo, Trip Lee, Lecrae, and others that were keeping things current but still had the message in tact. I figured let me cultivate local south Florida artists, starting with my home church (Living Word Christian Center) (Jyoungsfl, Duke Royale, Nolan Taylor) and help push the message of salvation while keeping it real to the masses. What matters to you most when working with artists? I’d say authenticity and a strong work ethic. Don’t be a lazy artist. “Faith without works is dead”. I’ll help the artist in every way possible to achieve greatness but they have to want it more than me. What’s your musical identity? I’d say my style is a combination of Hip Hop, R&B, Gospel, and Pop with an Island vibe (Jamaican parents) sprinkled in somewhere (lol). What would you like to achieve with your production ministry? My goal is to help artists achieve greatness through their ministries in any way possible which includes both the music and business side of things. What’s your working style? Should one attempt to produce “Hits’ all the time?” My working style varies, depending on the session and artist at the moment. I don’t think one should strive for hits. Strive for authenticity in your message musically and let God do the promoting. Just put forth the best product possible and everything else will happen according to His will. Where do you feel the Christian Hip Hop culture is today vs. Secular Hip Hop? I think it’s where it needs to be and is still evolving. I try to stay away from politics in music because it can stifle creativity, etc. I think we have a long way to go and the genre could use more originality. It will get to where it needs to be though. Are you affiliated with a label, and do you have connections with publishing, A&R, TV/
film, or radio companies? I’m not signed to a label (stay indie folks) lol. I have placed music in NBA, TV, and a few reality shows on STARZ, VH1, and BRAVO networks. I’ve worked with various music libraries also for placement opportunities. Who have you been listening to recently? TBH I don’t have any favorites currently. I just keep my ear to the streets and varying genres of music to not become pigeon-holed into a particular box/style/genre. What would you like consumers and fans to take away from your music? I’d want them to know that the music I make is intended to change the listener’s life for the better, both sonically and lyrically. Is there an artist you want to work with that you have not yet had the opportunity to work with? Aww man too many to name also, but in CHH I’d say working with Andy Mineo would be dope. Do you have advice for any individual who wants to become a music producer? Trust your gut. Try to develop an artist with your sound and spread the wealth from there. Lastly, learn the business side of the music! Do you have any other interests outside your music endeavors? I trade stock options and love anything tech! What’s your prayer for the CHH community as we deal with the social and racial unrest? Let’s start having honest conversations about history and put things in place to move forward because it’s real even in the church! What’s something we’d never guess about you? I’m a PK. Social Media, where can we find you? Instagram: @Superproducer_Firetracks & @Hitmenproduction | Twitter @Firetracks | YouTube @ Superproducer Firetracks & Hitmen Production Group NOVEMBER 2020 RYZE 23
LET’S CHAT: A LETTER FROM THE MANAGING EDITOR Real Talk: When you think of music, you think about all of the emotions it can evoke. One minute a song can make you feel charged up and ready to go and take on life; the next minute you may feel somber and sad. If music is successful in achieving those things, then you have a RECORD on your hands. Music is and will always be the universal language that we all can relate and communicate through. In this month’s issue of RYZE Magazine, we explore a different dynamic of the music business as we check in from the creative side of the industry, with the melody makers and song creators known as “The Producers.” 90 percent of the time a song starts with a beat, then THE melody is introduced from there, it’s turned into a song. Engineers then fine-tune that sound via the mix before it is sent off to mastering to give the song depth sonically to make you competitive. A song is poetry and other words put to music meant to be sung or rapped, so when you think about song structure, it’s about “the set up - the conflict - and then the resolution” and in music, song structure, and delivery are very important. So we’ve reached out and spoke to those that are not only specialists in these areas, but “Hit Makers”. These hitmakers combined have had number 1 records on the Billboard Charts, SoundScan, Christian Hip Hop, Grammys, Dove Awards, Stellars, and have produced and mixed some of the biggest stars in the genre. We get to see their perspective and gain insight into their process of creating hit records. RYZE Magazine, also speaks to an engineer that takes you through the mixing process, what they listen for, and fine-tune to make an artist sound the best that they possibly can. We highlight some of the different studios that are used around the United States as well as some of the microphones and recording software that is used by the professionals to achieve a great sounding record. It is my philosophy that to sound like the pro’s you have to use what they use, learn the production, recording, mixing, and or mastering techniques that will propel your music to the next level while remembering no record is ever perfect as a creative, and that growth will always be happening. Also in this month’s issue, RYZE is touching on the topic of the Grammys since it is the season, we give our readers and artists insight on how that process works for those who are trying to elevate their musical brand while celebrating those from the Christian Hip Hop/Gospel Rap genre that have made it on the ballot. No award system is ever foolproof, which is why we lean on the creator to get into the hearts of the decision-makers to only receive the music ministry but to acknowledge our presence and importance to the culture. RYZE’S SISTER MAGAZINE OUT NOW! Aulsondro “Novelist” Hamilton a.k.a. “Emcee N.I.C.E.” Managing Editor Twitter: @ryzemagazine Instagram:@ryzemagazine Instagram: @emceenicela E-mail: emceenice@ryzemagazine.com
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SISTER MAGAZ INE
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L3XDIVINE Wins the Andy Mineo Jackson Pollock challenge! If you haven’t been following the buzz, the latest craze happening in CHH, you’re out of the loop. Andy Mineo released a Tik Tok Duets Challenge for his record “Jackson Pollock” with the winner to be featured on the “remix” with Mineo; and Tik Tok world blew up! Spiritual lyricists from all over the world, all submitted in hopes of being among the chosen. 500 hundred submissions later, L3XDIVINE was the standout. We caught up with L3XDIVINE to get her reaction on winning: Where are you located/from? Las Vegas, NV currently in St. Louis, MO. What made you submit to the challenge? A friend of mine DM’d me and was like “you have to do it” what intrigued me about the challenge was that it consisted of fast cadences, the beat was very charismatic, and I’m a huge fan Busta Rhymes. Did you think you had a chance with all of the submissions pouring in especially with notable CHH artists submitting? I didn’t even know it was a competition until he put us all on his page. I was shocked; honestly, ecstatic about the impact of competition. How’d you find out? Andy announced my name on his IG stories! And someone told me it was on Tik Tok too, but, the official DM to send him my info for my new air pod pros was it! When you heard the final track what were your thoughts? I melted and died at least 3 times. I’m used to having rough mixes recorded to hear myself that clean was amazing! Then I learned Canon is also featured on the song! The way Monster Tarver comes on after my my verse man I was blown away. The order is perfect! Follow @L3XDIVINE on all SM platforms WWW.L3XDIVINE.COM
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PORSHA LOVE Releases in 2020: “Ghetto” (ft. Marc Stevens & Miles Minnick) “Aht Aht” (ft. S.O.) “Leave Me Lone” (ft. Swaizy) Features in 2020: Artist: Tae Collier Song: “Trendy” (ft Torey D’shaun & Porsha Love) Artist: Marqus Anthony Song: “Down” (ft Avila & Porsha Love) Artist: Wande Song: “Wakande” (ft. Porsha Love)
Porsha Love a Detroit native is on the RYZE, she has been one of the Christian Hip Hop artists lighting up CHH.
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Quotable: Love’s aggressive tones and crafty spiritual sass grabbed the attention of Reach Record’s bossman Lecrae who named her as 1-of-3 artists on his radar that aren’t signed with Reach Records in a recent interview with Justin Sarachik of Rapzilla. Coming from the secular world and rapping at local clubs, Love found purpose through God and her life changed. In 2016 she created an All Female Detroit Christian Hip Hop Cypher with Lady Adamas, Ty Cage, ily Rap & Speezlouis that grabbed some attention and from there the CHH community started watching her movements... the sky is the limit.
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Releases in 2020: “Popeye” (ft. Emcee N.I.C.E.) “Work” (ft. Dee Jackson) “Blue Magic” (ft. Corey Freeze) “MM Yeah” “Murda Mann” Features in 2020: Artist: Rockstar JT Song: “Stick” (ft Duke Deuce, Scootie Wop & MainMain) Monroe, Louisiana native MainMain is an artist that is quickly RYZE’ing, with an uncanny ability to freestyle a whole song, MainMain stands above most of the competition. Nicknamed CUJO to remind himself of where he came from, his music has been compared to the lyrical flows and stylings of Drake, Lil Wayne, Travis Scott and Lil Snupe while keeping a fun and southern anthem type musical feel and loyalty to his hometown. Who is MAINMAIN? Layered with an unmistakable and unforgettable sound and better yet known for his energy on stage; trending dance moves and compelling lyricism…MainMain leaves his audience wanting more every time. He is an all around triple threat with the charisma to match. To see him on a live platform will leave his audiences entertained, encouraged and engaged. MainMain’s one of a kind personality and passion for what he does best poises him not only as next, but as a true and bonified legend in the making. currently enrolled at the University of Louisiana Monroe and is active on campus keeping his ear to the streets in what is trending musically keeping him and his music relevant and progressive in its approach. At the young age of 21, MainMain is only beginning his career blazing through stereotypes, breaking records and astonishing new audiences with his rare musical giftings. 38 RYZE NOVEMBER 2020
Egomi is an LA-based mixing-engineer, music producer, & multi-instrumentalist, who’s worked on records with Tedashii, Derek Minor, Crowder, and many more. He was born and raised in Dallas, Texas, where he got into the local music scene. He eventually got an internship and moved to Atlanta as an audio engineer at 19 years old. Post internship, he was hired at a studio in Dallas where he built up his clientele, eventually moving to LA where he currently resides as a full-time mixing-engineer and music producer. He currently works with quite a few budding artists, gaining millions of streams on some of the records he’s produced and engineered. He also releases music as an artist himself on the side.
What advice would you give an artist bringing you a song to mix? When an artist comes to me with a mix, I advise them to not get so used to the demo version of their song that they don’t like the mix. It is very easy to get psychologically attached to the first unmixed recording of a song, so I think it is important for artists to be aware of that, because they can easily ask the mix to sound closer to the demo, and that may just make the mix end up sounding worse. When you mix music, what is your mixing preference? (Software, etc.) I work in the box with software. Nowadays, software is practically just as good as their hardware equivalents, and much easier to incorporate, so I mix in the box. FabFilter plugins are essential. I also highly recommend SoundToys and Universal Audio plugins. What made you become an engineer? In early high school, I experimented with audio recording software and found a real passion for it. I decided to pursue it as a career path and went to college for Audio Engineering.
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Where are you from? I was born and raised in Dallas, Texas, but currently live in LA. What made you move to Cali? I moved out to California to pursue music further.
WHERE CAN WE FIND YOU ON SM?
I am on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, YouTube, and Soundcloud at @egomimusic or at [website].com/egomimusic. I also have a second Instagram @beatsbyegomi where I have my largest following, and where the majority of people generally contact me. Follow me there of all places, since I post there most.
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CHH HITMAKERS Clientele: nobigdyl., Derek Minor, WHATUPRG, S.O., Tedashii, Byron Juane, Bizzle, Datin, Deraj, Dru Bex Contact: onbeatmusic@gmail.com Tell us a bit about Yourself, as a Music Producer (where are you from - who are you - how did you get started) and why? My name is OB. My producer name is OnBeatMusic. I’m from San Antonio, TX but I am currently living in Ontario, Canada. I got started in music when I was 10 years old playing the drums, did Drumline all through high school, and was touring in a band after high school. In 2010 I got saved and someone showed me CHH. I had already been messing around with production in high school so picked it back up at that time. From there I started entering Rapzilla’s remix competitions and started doing beat battles, and eventually, in 2014 I won a beat battle and remix competition. That is when my career really took off. What made you want to produce? I took a liking to what CHH really was and the idea of it. I really wanted to impact people, especially the younger generation because I saw how my little brothers were really influenced by rap and I wanted to give them something that had an actual message behind it. How did you come up with or get your name? That’s a funny story. Originally I wanted my name to mean something and you know how it is when you first get saved - you want everything to be super spiritual. So my name was 44 RYZE NOVEMBER 2020
supposed to be “One Blood Music.” But then I realized how corny that was and I wanted my producer name to be something with my initials. I started putting names together from my life that made sense. I knew I was a drummer, a Christian, and a lover of music. I realized that as a drummer you always have to be on tempo, or on beat. And as a Christian, you need to be in tune, and so I got the “OnBeat” from being on beat as a drummer and being on beat as a Christian. And the last initial came from my last name Martinez, and my love for music. And thus, OnBeatMusic was born. Who were your early inspirations/influencers?
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I was pretty inspired by producers like Johnny Juliano, Dirty Rice, Araabmuzik, DJ Official, and G-Stylez aka Gawvi. I would study their beats like crazy. When did you know you wanted to do CHH or jump into faith-based music production? Back in 2010 when I first heard C-Lite aka Andy Mineo. I realized that I had a desire to pursue CHH. What matters to you most when working with artists? Their passion for music and their willingness to want to grow in their craft. Describe your musical style? I feel like I’ve never had an exact style. But if I had to say, I would call it a fusion style because I like to take things from a lot of different genres and put them together. For example, I’m Latino, I love taking Latin sounds that I grew up listening to and mixing it with today’s hip hop. Then I also do things like take rock, alternative or punk elements and fusing them with trap drums or just other drums to experiment and see what I can create. I’m always trying to push the bar when it comes to styles. What artists have you worked with? Besides those initially listed pretty much the whole God Over Money team. And I can continue down the list, but it would be better for you to just check out my Spotify playlist called ‘Produced by OnBeatMusic’ which has over nine hours of production that I have done lol. What would you like to achieve with your production ministry? I feel like success for me is impacting someone rather than impressing them. If God can use me to impact someone’s life, then that’s my success story. What’s your working style? I try to keep away from the habit of looking at creating music as work because once I do, it doesn’t seem fun anymore and kills my creativity. I see making music as expressing myself through art and not just making beats so I can sell them. When it comes to the hit factor, I stay away from feeling
like every song has to be a hit. All of my best songs were created organically where the goal was to create in the moment, and not just create a hit song. So when I did ‘Astronaut’ or ‘Boast’ or ‘Shakira,’ the creative juices were just flowing. Where do you feel the Christian Hip Hop culture is today vs. Secular Hip Hop? what I’m saying is totally conviction based. I feel like our culture has progressed today when it comes to sound. We have grown to where I see people from the “secular culture” collaborating with us. And some have gone as far as to even stealing from us. Notice how I put quotations on “secular hip hop” – mainly because I don’t like the labels in general. Whether it’s “secular” or “CHH.” In reality, I believe it is all one. I believe there are some people that are promoting an ungodly lifestyle in secular hip hop, but I have heard the same in CHH where people are promoting poor doctrine or money, and in my opinion, it’s no different. But hear me out, I’m not saying I promote “secular music,” what I’m trying to say is that it is all Hip Hop but we are speaking from different worldviews. I love the phrase that “not all secular music is bad, just like not all Christian music is good.” What’s something we’d never guess about you? My favorite genre of music is Pop Punk. Do you have any other interests outside your music endeavors?Video gaming and I’m a big sneakerhead. What’s your prayer for the CHH community as we deal with the social and racial unrest? Praying for more understanding from those who haven’t experienced racism, and especially for those who don’t believe in it and/or say that systemic racism doesn’t exist. I know the day will come when justice will be served to the injustices that we have seen in this world. Social Media, where can we find you? You can follow me on Instagram, FB, and Twitter @OnBeatMusic. I’m also streaming on Twitch pretty soon, so follow me twitch.tv/onbeatmusic. NOVEMBER 2020 RYZE 47
Minverov itatur as vendi oditatur magnienis iunt fuga. Et ese maiossi oditi conseces qui am, omnimpe rovidi Clientele: N.I.C.E.,sincia B.B. Jay, 8 con non pelEmcee mos dolupta dolores Ball & MJG, Yanglandam, Twins, omRaheim dolupta tiust,Ying, omnihil The Dream nihil itatus ab iliquos accullabo. Pudi Contact: sampeezy75@gmail.com dolores doluptius derovid quam asi tem qui dio. Lor samus veliquia acietur Tell us a bitaut about yourself,quibus as a prorepelicipis veligendam, et, ducer .Where are you from? How’d simaio. Rit, conseru ndenis imendelyou get youretur start? is Sam ibus inturio aborMy re name nullatiore Peezy (government surname coraes asperi idus modit venis- Anthony everum Dwayne Avery). I am from Tuscaloosa, faces minusandi cum debistior sequi Alabama, a collegefaceaqui town (Roll beaquis quuntum oditTide!) omnisin West Alabama, about 45 eos minutes evendios eatistiae il ium explit,from Mississippi. am the of a Veteran’s quas con cusI auta ius son ellanihitiis alique Affairs attorney (Michael Avery) and pratur re parum quassim fugiae voles retired insurance (Willie susapitenis doloribsalesperson uscitis molent unti Avery). ut volupta erferum hita is sandes re nectur sundit es quis sequam cus qui I started playing thespienec trumpettamustio at 10 years nihitatia sa volupta old and went on to play every brass que es aceperem quo quos mosae vel instrument, by the time I got to high int ex estrum imet officae arum, solore school. I alsonihicium learned to play piano pe es eaquis intiandit, simand aut 48 RYZE NOVEMBER 2020
aut la quid ut mo te ped ut venimus sit, alictec tianist runturest, que cus, quae. drums I entered college the UniLor moascorepratur? Quis etateliciis dolversity of Alabama. Once there I studied lam quatio. Ut quis am delitat atquid jazz. It was at the University of Alabama magni tes mi, omniet omnihitatur, that mypsapis best friend, Roderick Prince and assinci et, to to dolumenda poris I,quatur started making beats in the summer rem delictem illaciis si to molorof 1994. said that it would “be a aut adiRoderick illibust quae que conest experis cool way to make money. ” I thought he cus ipsapernati corum sum eossinctum was nuts!!! WeIctur, didn’t know quiamusdae. alita veroANYONE debitatur, who made BEATS for a living. But we to et, nobit est maximporem consectis did it anyway, starting with a Korgfugia X2 in nimuscidest diani atemporem and Bosstotate DR-660 A porisa mo posdrum alit utmachine. quam ipiet few weeks weducieni took our “beat tape” verro quia later volora endusam to WVUA, collegeEtradio station at solut acestiathe dellabo. alitaque pores the University of Alabama. It was there maximpos corepudisqui utecae consewe met “Bonebreaker” and his brothro videliquibus estis et offictectem ut er Oscar. We clicked immediately and a solupta temque dent, vendus dolecte started a rap group named “Phasnick. ndebis earcil ipsuntio velesti onserum” From therecus I decided thissit, was voloribea ut quamthat dolor ut what moIluptas wanted to do for the rest of my life and adit pro modi vollaborem saessit I’ve been producing ever since. atquid quatus simoluptam a suntiur ibeatur? Arunt magnis mo omnima What made you want to produce? iunt aut asperum a dolorat emporro
Faccae ni acea ped que Ideliciet magnihilitio odi co al I love to evoke th rio dolorec tecturemotion magniend duction. It’s the most inte ribus, sape pa quat in necup whatraInone do. I venet, am a HUGE tem cus, solo saepra dicilis dol Jones, pratemqui and watching him aut facium comnimpora range made me want tocom officaecto voluptist od ut vo laugh, cry, or whatever. atusandaepta dolorum quam quo dipsaeperum Howilligen did you come upide w to quiae dolo temque ex eat name? Funny story. My b Velit et quod que porrovid e Christopher England (D) estem incitecerum is et ut a used to lacerspe play NCAA Footb andante eostrum c tion. We used to stay up a empore explit remquatur? entire seasons in Dynasty Berecabo. Et excepro cum u there was a five star kicke etureperem. Pudaera sitaqu Adams. For whatever leniendit aut pe maio. Utrea ea poria pliation plab ium hica just stuck with me. From omnita nimporepuda dus. was SAM ADDAMS. I lat Ga. El was exceaanother sa sit, torion co there pop sta id ma dolo evelit volorit inc
onquasita eatat. sperepelit hrough my prodae enis explabo eresting part ptaes restibus,of fan of Quincy or sequiatias quis lorep erepreicias compose and aroreium iumetur, make people smile, oluptatur, volupti m voluptaquod elentor abget il etyour est idi with t. best friend Rep. exera autatium ) Alabama, and I aut quam recearciis ball on PlayStacones sum volor-
ADAMS, I changed my name Sam P, eum everything, I would describecones my style cus essimaio.soUlpa quam facere sit amtoipsunt hillore autbut maximin ctusdanda erit the “P”nsequis standing for “Percy, which was my excersp as “high-class gutter music. ” I like melodies laborio nonsequis non”cum facea eriorro esciet possi rehendes venes grandfather’s name. After a fewovitaeptur months my solorru and layers, butitatem it alsoeiunda has tovolor BANG. The voluptatio blabori dolendi caerfer mquiand ressunt friends justventur, startedaribus. calling me Sam PEEZY, moluptio. trunk has to rattle. simustincim Osam reruptata dessit aute labora Ciunt tibuscite poria qui officdoloribus con nat. and itutem justvolupta kinda stuck from there. tias accaboresci nam, offici blam et ea corrum Pictur aliat volorpore poreWhat artists haveinus, you sitaqui workedconse with? utWhen autae dolorpost, ipsam facipsumquis dolo hen ditae. Ped modipsum resto blab iduciur did you know you wanted to do I have worked with Boosie, Pastor Troy,a 95 cus sit vid odiostiore nam labore niment. CHH or eseri jumputat into faith-based music South, 69 Boyz, Dis N Dat, LA Sno, Tetraz niproduction? velestruptas evel imporiore, nus, arum Serepel luptae acea comI didn’t. It just kinda hapand Kidicimo Chill, DJ Taz,comnihitae MC Shy D, 8Ball and aut eniendu stemperor samus del magnimus nihilla velescil magnistor rehenis as rem ut pened LOL. But I am a devout Christian, MJG, The Ying Yang Twins, Kilo Ali, Radolende nus ea quo exeria derrovi delenim quiduntoris maxime cus dolor ant dolupiet so the switch was easy. I could make music heem The Dream, Fred Hammond, Richard exped exerspelit doluptas de con et plandio. delia aut poraest vid qui idelique ea as dellupt and not have to have a guilty conscience. I Smallwood, Vaughn and Expla dundipsanis aute dolupicil invenihit, atiosae nate nemBishop erchic Cortez tecus eationsendae all night and play utreally enjoy that (LOL). Emcee N.I.C.E. atureperio. Ut velendes ma volorat fugiti lignis pa que ea coritiatur moluptibus sam idis yullaturi mode.dus One night corum aut earum arcipsunt. et illaboressiMod molorest fugia nonem eser named Sam What matters to you most when working What would you like to achieve with your uaspiet quid ulGa. Moloriberum rem labore coriori busamu- trum rendi doluptaqui to blaut eum reperovit, ason, that name with artists?fuga. I’mObis mosteum interested in the art- volupta production ministry? toqui reach a perro is ab ipis sae. Officium repro endis sunspiciliciam, quas vidI would untiatulike riore, aethat volorum deist’s voles endesto tetwork occum vit resseque abore necus et audae volupta believer. spelian totaeperupta point eni on I grind. Hard often beats talent. the ut “non-traditional” The ones lia secea adit fugiasinveni offic tet veliae de sum in rerioru mquiscius eostium dis doluptu ter found out that who may have been disenfranchised by the orum evendiat vel si dolore exceptumque officia nisque dolupta rerovitatur? ar named SAM Describe your musical style? I do a little of church. I want them to become stronger in cimenis asit dolo dolupis quid quo beariandi cusdae sunto dis Ovitatiis sequi volupta simusdam eumqui NOVEMBER 2020 RYZE 49
their faith and not feel like outsiders. What’s your working style? Should one attempt to produce “Hits’ all the time”? I think people just need to be their true selves and make the music that they want to make, regardless of how that sounds. If that becomes a hit, then so be it. Where do you feel the Christian Hip Hop culture is today vs. The Secular Hip Hop? I feel that Christian Hip Hop mocks secular hip hop too much. We need to come up with our OWN sound. The world should follow the church, not the other way around. Are you affiliated with a label? Do you have connections with publishing, A&R, TV/film, or radio companies? I am signed to A Listaz Music Group, which is headed by Keith “KD” McMillan, an A&R with Island Prolific. I also work with CSP Music Group, which is tied to several labels, and movers and shakers in the music industry. Who have you been listening to recently? I’ve been listening to Nipsey Hustle, Rick Ross, Roddy Rich, M16 Beats, Emcee N.I.C.E. and Rezurrection. What other producers, songwriters and/or artists do you see as your primary inspirations? I am inspired by Bynk!!!, Another dope writer named Penjamin Frankiln, Rick Ross, Selah Avery (great songwriter and artist), M16Beats, 2 Chainz, and another young CHH artist named MainMain. He’s REALLY dope. What would you like consumers and fans to take away from your music? That it is okay to be different. Just don’t be wack (LOL). Is there an artist you want to work with that you have not yet had the opportunity to work with? Rick Ross. I think he is SO dope. Also, Anderson. Paak. Name some of your hit records. The BIGGEST records of my career are “Angels” by Emcee 50 RYZE NOVEMBER 2020
N.I.C.E., which went number one on Billboard, also the album “Praise” became the #1 Gospel Album, followed by “Glory to God” (feat. Fred Hammond) which also hit #1 on Billboard. As of today, I have the number four record on the UK charts with “In My Purse,” by Selah Avery and Billboard Internet Charts with “Preach It Right” by Rezurrection as well as “Lift Me Up” (feat. Bishop Cortez Vaughn) by Emcee N.I.C.E. Do you have advice for any individual who wants to become a music producer? Don’t!!! (LOL). Seriously, just have thick skin and patience. You have to plant a lot of seeds to have a harvest. That takes a while. Nothing comes overnight. What can we expect from you in 2021? I have A LOT going on with some very important indie artists as well as some majors, which, because of contractual obligations, I can’t mention. But there is A LOT going on and you will see me on TV! What’s something we’d never guess about you? I LOVE to hunt. Deer, wild turkey, wild boar, doves, ANYTHING. There is nothing as peaceful as waiting for the right opportunity to bag a trophy. I am a country boy at heart!!! And I LOVE boxing. Not watching it, but literally putting on gloves and going at it with my big homies. I’m pretty good, too. So don’t try me. What’s your prayer for the CHH community as we deal with the social and racial unrest? I pray we make music that touches people’s hearts and FORCES them to make a decision. Too many folks are straddling the fence. We have to pick a side. I pray that the ones who choose CHRIST will STAND by their decision come hell or high water. Do you have any other interests outside your music endeavors? I would REALLY like to paint. Social Media, where can we find you? Facebook - Anthony Sam Peezy Avery Twitter - @sam_peezy and IG - sampeezymaa
Clientele: Bizzle, Derek Minor, Canton Born and raised amidst musicians Jones, R Swift andDatin, singers, Jay Allie is no stranger Contact: to the M4mproductions@gmail.co musical expression of his faith. Jay began singing lead in the family Tellchoir us aearly bit about Yourself, as Music on, attributing hisavocal Producer (where you - who variance to theare likes of from Hezekiah areWalker, you - how did you get John started) Kirk Franklin, P Kee, andDonald why? I’m Marvin Glaspie Jr., Lawrence, Mississippifrom Mass Texas originally from New Orleans. Choir and Kim Burrell, with Daryl I’mColeman a Music Producer/Sound being one of his designer. all time I got startedartists. back in 01 out of necessifavorite ty. At my church there were 2 brothers that rapped. They had some beats on a 52 52RYZE RYZEOCTOBER NOVEMBER 2020 2020
cassette tape favorite that waspart literally falling What’s your of the music apart (lol).process? Eventually the tape broke... creation So the beat journey began forame. Production, definetly. I own studio space in my home where I’m able to What’s your musical background? create the foundational ideas before I’m naturally a Drummer been working with other writers andplaying prosince 3. I was a Disc Jockey as well. ducers. A lot of times God gives meSo Beatmaking an Ieasy transition songs in mywas sleep. try my best to beget cause I understood rhythm, timing, up and create what I hear using the and sequencing. voice recorder on my phone or get to the studio. How did you come up with or get your name?
One ofthe my Buddy’s fro What’s driving force call me Moe, Ma artistry? Well, short I’ve alway callednot MoBeats becaus music solely as an ar Once I started produci on the business side, as m the nameand Marv4MoBe financing, investing artists and musical ende Whobeen wereinyour early ways the studio influencers? My Fathea necessary components collector, all styles ofetc m ships with engineers, Mything influef edintomy dohouse. my own Clinton, Barry and see how thatWhite, goes. Crouch, Gamble and H Fresh) my NOLA influ
om church used to behind your arv. Anotherinone ys dwelled se of Beatmaking. rtist. I’ve been ing as a job, I put management, together. geats in other eavors. I’ve alinspirations/ gathering the er was a record and relationmusic played c., andwere decidencers are George for a minute, Gene Page, Andre Huff, (KLC, Manny uence.
When did you know you wanted to do CHH or jump into faith based music production? I started out in CHH so it was a no brainer.
What would you like to achieve with your production ministry? I want to make dope music so Christian Artists don’t have to go to the world for dope production.
What matters to you most when working with artists? The artist that I’m working with, has to have some substance to their music. I’m not into working with everyone that comes out. It has to make sense to me.
What’s your working style? Should one attempt to produce “Hits’ all the time”? Everything is a mood for me. I’m not shooting for hits every time,but into making classics.
Describe your musical style? I’m pretty diverse a lot of people think I’m from the West Coast because of the diversity. I’ve been in the south all my life.
Where do you feel the Christian Hip Hop culture is today vs. The Secular Hip Hop? Honestly, it’s on a very fine line. A lot of the new music lacks substance in my opinion and the message is a bit unclear. Maybe I’m just getting old (LOL).
What artists have you worked with? I’ve worked with Canton Jones, Derreck Minor, Bizzle, Datin, Jered Sanders, Bumps NF, MouthPi3ce, R swift, K Drama, Tragic Hero, J Johnson, Young Joshua, Everyday Process, Demaries, D. Montrell, Corey Hicks, and too many indie artists to name.
Are you affiliated with a label, and do you have connections with publishing, A&R, TV/film, or radio companies? I’ve been on a few retainers, which is cool but no affiliations. I like freedom.
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Who have you been listening to recently? As of late, I’ve been listening to Questlove Supreme Podcast which is a dope listen for Producers and Musicians. What other producers, songwriters and/or artists do you see as your primary inspirations? George Clinton, 9th Wonder, Dilla, and Just Blaze. What would you like consumers and fans to take away from your music? The diversity. You’ll never be able to box me in. Is there an artist you want to work with that you have not yet had the opportunity to connect with? At this in my life, I’m not star struck on anyone. Don’t have a wish list. It just has to make sense to me. Name some of your hit records. Our God by R swift, Surrender by Bizzle, Hold Me Down by, Derreck Minor, No Lies by Bizzle. Do you have advice for any individual who wants to become a music producer? Allow God create a lane for you and stay in it. Everything you’ll be in that lane. Don’t take any detours because you may run into a dead end. What can we expect from you in 2021? A lot more Sound Designing, more Beattapes. What’s your prayer for the CHH community as we deal with the social and racial unrest? That the message is clear about Jesus Christ and how He is our Hope. What’s something we’d never guess about you? I like ironing. Do you have any other interests outside your music endeavors? I like grilling on a smoker and I like hopping on my riding mower to cut my grass. I’m old bruv Social Media, where can we find you? Marv4MoBeats.com, IG @Marv4Mobeats
To be consisered for the next CHH HitMakers Producer Edition of RYZE Magazine submit your bio, and top three songs to ryzewitme@gmail.com
Clientele: NF, Lecrae, Derek Minor, Flame, Da T.R.U.T.H. Contact: teamspechouse@gmail.com Tell us a bit about Yourself, as a Music Producer (where are you from - who are you - how did you get started) and why? I was born Lamontt Blackshire, but I’m called Spechouse or SPEC for short. Born and raised in Sacramento, California. The protégé at 18 of “Digital D”, most noted for producing and engineering 2Pac’s first albums and career start. I was blessed to be around platinum hit makers and songwriters right from the beginning. Although, I got my first internship at the studio by offering to clean the toilets and wash the dishes. What made you want to produce? Never really wanted to be a music producer. I was aspiring to be an architect. I guess God has a sense of humor, as I am an architect of music. In high school, as a junior, I got suspended. Almost expelled. That summer my mom took everything from me. After spending half the Summer on restriction
as a music producer, songwriter, bathroom cleaner, dishwasher, driver, or whatever else I saw that they needed in exchange to be around them and learn. When I first taught myself how to play a little, I would look over the church musicians shoulder to get new chords. I learned how to make beats from studying Dr. Dre, Timbaland, and Bad Boy music production notes. (Most people don’t know the production and mixing notes for most major records or online). I learned how to engineer and record from my first internship at HITWORKS Studio, Which was run by 2Pac’s cousin, Riq Roq. I directed the Sacramento state gospel choir for the time I was there, that taught me so much about harmony and dealing with female vocals. And I learned how to arrange, development artist, and produce a record from Digital D, my mentor, who has worked with everybody from Raphael Sadiq, the Luniz, 2Pac, Digital Underground, and more.
in my room, I picked up the only thing that wasn’t restricted from me, which was my little sister’s keyboard. My evil sister used to charge me to borrow it (LOL). I taught myself how to play piano that summer. When I went back to school as a senior, I discovered something that no one had ever disclosed before: girls like musicians (LOL). As a budding teenage boy, I started writing songs and organizing singing groups to keep the company of women. And that is the honest truth of what drove me from studying architecture to music. What’s your musical background, if any? I never had a music lesson per se. All self taught, or through an internship or apprenticeship that I landed. I found out at a very early age, people rarely do things because they want to be nice or kind. They usually need something in it for them. So I would offer my services
How did you come up with or get your name? The name is interesting. The short story is that because I wanted to do everything when I first got into music, (make beats, write songs, develop artists, produce, mix, booking, manage...everything) I developed a nickname “super spectacular”. It was kind of a jab, making fun of my aspirations. When I began to become success-
NOVEMBER 2020 RYZE 57
ful in many of these things, I kept the name to remind me of the doubters and what I overcame to get here. Super spectacular became “Spec”, and SPEC became an acronym for Sole Purpose of Edifying Christ. When I developed my record company , I took on the name Spechouse, speaking of my company and my body as a temple in particular...” as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord”. Who were your early inspirations/influencers? I always knew I was supposed to be producing music for God’s glory alone. However, I would always try to mix in other types of music and work, and just say it was to feed my family. God forced me into it (LOL). I had a deal on the table to be an in-house for a label. It was a very lucrative deal and would secure my financial future for a while. The record label had so much money that they bought a hotel, and they were going to build me a studio in the hotel. Just before I was supposed to go to the hotel and sign the contract, the hotel burnt down. The record label left town and the deal was off. I do not believe it was by coincidence. I believe God did that for me. My mother kept me from my father when I was young. I never had a person in my life to come snatch me out of a club, or save me from myself as a young and dumb kid. I felt God did that for me, not to me. Despite what I wanted to do or what I thought was right, God was an amazing Father who destroyed a whole situation to save me from signing my life away. I went back to my band partners and my business partners, told them I was all done... I would be dedicating my music to the Lord only. None of them understood, it didn’t matter. None of them we’re going to burn down a hotel to save me from myself. I wanted to serve someone who could save me in spite of myself. When did you know you wanted to do CHH or jump into faith based music production? Early inspirations....easy. I grew up on the West Coast. Dr. Dre, 2Pac, E-40, and of course later, Kanye West and Dark Child. But what Producer is not influenced by those two. As a sidenote, my favorite old-school Producer is Stevie Wonder. His music is so cinematic and colorful. I had an 58 RYZE NOVEMBER 2020
old Stevie Wonder record when I was younger, I listened to it all the time. I believe that’s why my music always has so many changes and progressions. What matters to you most when working with artists? I need to be sure that the song is not only the best song that it could be, but that it’s also the best representation of the artist. So many producers focus on the record. I focus on the artist first. I won’t even start a record without making recommendations for marketing and the way it will affect their career and target audience. And then of course, I need to make sure the song brings glory to the Lord, but that goes without saying. What’s something we’d never guess about you? I played soccer for over a decade of my life and played soccer in college as well and competitive. Do you have any other interests outside your music endeavors? I run a whole media company. I love editing film, I love performing, I’m an artist as well, I am acting now. I starred in two seasons of Cling The Series. I love woodworking and building. But my favorite thing to do is being a father. What’s your prayer for the CHH community as we deal with the social and racial unrest? I actually just released a song with good friends of mine Psalm MUZIC and Vito OT called “We Can Do Better”. A lot of our hopes for the CHH market and America as a whole are expressed in that song. Racism is not unlike any other sin that we must fight against in the world. Our highest identity is in Christ, so as we continue to address, bring light to, and work out this subject, I pray we do it unto Christ, as in all things. I am very pleased at the awareness and involvement of the CHH community as a whole. Social Media, where can we find you? Fb-Lamontt Blackshire or spechouse music / all other platforms-@spechouse
Clientele: NoBigDyl, WHATUPRG, Aaron Cole, Joey Vantes, Contact: bookingfordjmykaelv@gmail.com Tell us a bit about Yourself, as a Music Producer (where are you from - who are you - how did you get started) and why? My name is DJ Mykael V. I’m a DJ, A&R/ Execute, and Producer. Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York! I got started in music by DJ’ing for my best friend Rick Harmony out in southern New Jersey, and for youth groups and High School parties. What made you want to produce? I loved music so much growing up I knew I wanted to be involved somehow, even though I knew I couldn’t rap, and barley sing. I got into executive producing and DJ’ing to keep my hands on the music. When did you know you wanted to do CHH or jump into faith based music production? When I started doing music for our youth group I got saved, and knew I had to be a part of the story. What matters to you most when working with artists? Making them feel comfortable with the product, and having something we all can be proud of. Describe your musical style? 60 RYZE NOVEMBER
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artists have you worked I kinda worked with ne... low key people like TUPRG, nobigdyl, Ty Parris Chariz, etc. etc.
would you like to e with your production try? To create an ecosysr artists that can be self ning and beneficial to ev-
eryone who wants to be a part of CHH! What’s your working style? Should one attempt to produce “Hits’ all the time”? I usually strike when the iron is hot these days. Since COVID inspiration is hard to come by. Where do you feel the Christian Hip Hop culture is today vs. Secular Hip Hop? We’re in a league of our own. I think we have potential to become great.
ly? A lot of Don Toliver, Parris Chariz, Pink $weats, and Big Sean. What other producers, songwriters and/or artists do you see as your primary inspirations? I love listening to Internet Money, and what they have going on.
What would you like consumers and fans to take away from your music? That you can have fun and be free with everlasting joy, but also know that they Who have you been listening to recent- aren’t alone in their tough times. NOVEMBER 2020 RYZE 61
Is there an artist you want to work with that you have not yet had the opportunity to work with? I would lo work with KB
What’s your prayer for the CHH community as we deal with the social and racial unrest? That we would keep our eyes and life on Christ!
Name some of your hit records. Mia, Switches, Poolside, Better Dayz Do you have advice for any individual who wants to become a music producer? Be patient and willing to serve. What can we expect from you in 2021? My first project!. Social Media, where can we find you? @DJMykaelV on everything.
To be consisered for the next CHH HitMakers Producer Edition of RYZE Magazine submit your bio, and top three songs to ryzewitme@gmail.com
What’s something we’d never guess about you? I love rock, and classic jazz music. Do you have any other interests outside your music endeavors? I would love to be a curator for Spotify.
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YOU DON’T NEED THE DOCTOR For many, the thought of having their own recording studio is daunting and quite intimidating. I mean, after all, isn’t that something only the professional gurus like Dr. Dre are supposed to have? And building your own recording studio is going to cost like 10’s of thousands of dollars right? Nope…and…NOPE! You see, once upon a time that was the case but now due to the evolution of technology in this “digital age”, the barrier to entry has drastically been reduced and it’s become the norm for rappers to have their own personal recording studios. The Benefits Here are a few of the major reasons why it’s important to have your own recording studio. Having your own studio gives you the ability to spend as much time as your little heart desires to work on your songs without the time restraints you would face recording at someone else’s studio. This also provides you with the freedom and flexibility to experiment with your voice to improve your delivery and get the best vocal takes possible. Recording at someone else’s studio can also make you quite nervous especially your first studio session which can negatively affect your performance. And to be quite honest, not all studios have good vibes and there is no place like your own. Also, the experience gained by recording in your own studio will make you more confident and comfortable if you decide to record in someone else’s studio later on. 66 RYZE NOVEMBER 2020
Increasing Productivity Having your own studio can really boost your productivity in the following ways. As your working on your songs you can quickly record your vocal takes into your software of choice just to get your ideas down so you don’t forget them later. And later on you can come back to them to polish them up if needed. Using a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) which is basically the software you will use to record your vocals, will also allow you to loop sections of a song that you’re working on so you don’t have to keep rewinding and fast forwarding the instrumental to get where you want to be. Having your own recording setup will also make it much easier to collaborate with other rappers, producers, and musicians. Need someone to hop on that 2nd verse of your song? No problem! Simply export the current rough draft of the song and e-mail it to them. No more waiting for the engineer from the studio to “find the time” to send you a special version. Even if you’re not to the level of writing your own songs just yet, having your own recording studio can make practicing and developing your rap skills so much smoother and fun! For example, are you trying to learn your favorite rappers flow? Load it into your recording software and loop the section you’re trying to learn. Trying to nail down your 4, 8 and 16 count? Record yourself practicing over an instrumental and play it back to judge how well you did. Simple! Having your own studio can also make you money! You don’t have to be a Grammy-nominated mixing engineer, with a wall full of platinum plaques to charge a local rapper who’s trying to record their first songs. Oh, one more major advantage of having your own studio…It can save you a lot of money!
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BEGIN SOMEWHERE YOU CANNOT BUILD A REPUTATION ON WHAT YOU INTEND TO DO. “Don’t you know who I am?” If we had a dollar for every time someone said that to us, we’d be rich. When it comes to publicity, red carpets and event check-ins tend to draw the type of people who expect to be recognized and treated accordingly. For a moment, let’s put aside that it’s simply bad form to ask others that question (it either makes the situation uncomfortable or makes you look like a jerk). Instead, for this conversation only, we recommend you examine how others might answer that question if it were coming from you. Building a strong network and cultivating those personal connections is a key element of success in any industry. But in Music PR, it’s absolutely essential — the fact is, we’re really only as good as our contacts. For example: - Securing a news story hinges on relationships with bloggers or reporters. - Attracting the right attendees to an event rises and falls on connecting with the right social contacts. - Gaining new clients or projects often comes through the word-of-mouth you get from the people you know. Having a mentor or champion inside the industry– someone who knows you and the music you do– will help you get that plum placement or help push for your exposure and adds. Because most opportunities come from both whom you know and who knows you, your network is truly your net worth. Get out there and start connecting. Who knows? Your next hit, project or coverage could come
from your next-door neighbor (be it cubicle or cul-de-sac). Most would point to a Instagram, FB groups or Twitter as great places to start, but Peter Shankman, founder of HARO, believes that there’s no need to wait for special events to make the connections, saying that “everyone you meet is your networking event.” Davidson Goldin, former editorial director of MSNBC, adds, “Everyone you’ve encountered you’ll encounter again at some point, however unlikely that may seem. That doesn’t mean you have to like everyone or even get along with everyone– that’s impossible and boring. But once you realize that the world gets smaller as you get more exposure, you are more likely to give people the benefit of the doubt or the attention they deserve. Keep an open mind, expand your circle as wide as you possibly can, and be sure to maximize all opportunities. Once you have those contacts, it’s important to stay in touch on a regular basis. Laurel Touby, founder of mediabistro.com, concurs: “I believe in lightly keeping in touch with all your contacts when you need them the least because the worst [thing] you can ever do is make a desperate call asking for help. Nobody will want to see you or have lunch with you. Call people up regularly enough that they’re never worried that it’ll be a horrible bore [when you do call]. ‘Networking’ is about taking when you need something. I need to network because I need a job, need a sale, etc. What’s the solution? Don’t use that word. Use ‘connect’ instead–I want to learn, share, help them. Think about the other person in the equation. What do they get from you?” Dr. Naè Thompson, PRS NTPR Agency | Management Grp. naethompsonpr.com NOVEMBER 2020 RYZE 69