Interviews
Rapper Yung Citizen Is Complex Futuristic
A new artist to the game, Yung Citizen blends his own interpretations of hip hop along with infusions of R&B/Pop to deliver smooth melodic creations.
Yung Citizen is a rapper who blends his own interpretations of hip hop along with infusions of R&B/Pop to deliver smooth melodic creations. Accompanied by a poignant and uplifting message, Yung Citizen also produces his own original music.
Given the opportunity to engage the music of Yung Citizen, you will find lyrical composition that reaches deep into your soul that is intended to inspire and motivate you to always remain focus on your dreams and aspirations.
About Yung Citizen
When I first heard Yung Citizen’s music, I said to myself this brother is beyond his years. Yung Citizen is another artist that is a rare breed in the world of hip-hop today, by being socially conscious and tackling real-world issues.
In essence, he’s definitely a rare necessity in this music game, complex with a blend of futurism.
The upcoming artist from Charlotte, NC deep-rooted passion for music led him to a college degree in Music Business.
While at Catawba College, he produced music for Neako, a project that turned into the single and video, “Whippin Whippin”.
Citizen proclaims resolutely, “That experience further inspired me to pursue my lifelong dream of becoming a well-respected, highly sought-after music producer and artist”
After hearing the single “Power People”, it was a no brainer adding the southern to the list of well-deserved featured artist’s from Reverbnation.
Interview
Yung Citizen took the time to answer a few questions. Get a feel on who he is, and at the end press play on his current single.
UV: When did you fall in love with music?
YC: I fell in love with music when I was about 6 years old. Somehow I got hold of a Kriss Kross tape and listened to “Jump” a gazillion times in a row. I also used to watch the movie “The Five Heartbeats” continuously every single day.
UV: How long have you been creating and performing music?
YC: I have been creating music since I was 16 years old and I started performing once I got to college. I graduated with a degree in Music Business. I took music more serious once I got to college as well.
UV: How would you describe your music?
YC: My music is very complex. You never know what’s going to come out of my music. I get told that my music is very futuristic but my music is emotional. You’re going to feel it hit your soul.
UV: What` forthcoming projects are currently in progress?
YC: I just dropped a single this past November titled “Power People”. Right now between January and February I’m getting ready to shoot the music video for “Power People”. As far as projects I’m currently creating new music. I do not have a set release date on a project. I’m currently in a mindset where I just want to make as much music as possible and see where it takes me.
UV: How long have you been a member of Reverbnation?
YC:I first discovered Reverbnation when I was a sophomore in college and I have been using Reverbnation ever since and I love it. There are a ton of opportunities on Reverbnation.
UV: How do you feel about Reverbnation creating this opportunity?
YC: I thank Reverbnation for creating this opportunity. I think it is awesome. Its an honor.
UV: Who are your musical influences?
YC: My musical influences are Marvin Gaye, Ryan Leslie, and Pharrell Williams
UV: What influenced you to begin your music career?
YC: What influenced my begin my music career was honestly following the group N.E.R.D. heavily. I saw that they were creating music that was very different and I wanted to do the same exact thing but better.
UV: What advice do you have for other indie artists trying to succeed?
YC: Advice I would give other indie artists wanting to succeed is to just keep going and don’t give up and don’t worry about what others feel or say. Create music that makes you feel good. Create music that hits your soul and trust me it will impact others before you know it.
UV: What is the hardest challenge you have encountered with building your fan base?
YC: The hardest challenge I have encountered with building my fan base is trying to find it. My music is really different. Its not what you listen to on the radio or clubs. I feel people are so used to whats out now that they are afraid of change. Change can be good.
UV:How in tune are you with your fans?
YC: I love all my fans. I make sure they see everything I am doing. For example, I produce my own music and I always create videos of me creating music in my lab. I make sure they see the whole process.
UV: Has anyone ever given you negative feedback on your music, if so how did you react to it?
YC: People have definitely given me negative feedback. I am very coachable and open to negative feedback. It makes me who I am today. I take the feedback and go back in the booth and come harder.
UV: What do you hope to gain by being featured in Unheard Voices Magazine?
YC: Any opportunity I am given I always hope to gain more exposure. I want more people to know who I am and what I stand for.
UV: How important and how difficult is it to support your career with your own funding?
YC: It is very important that I support my career with my own funding. Its very difficult but it will be well worth it at the end. All of the hard work. Going between working a full time job and going straight to the studio.
UV: Would you rather be signed or remain independent and why?
YC: I would rather be independent just because I do not want to be boxed by what I can create. I want to be open to create whatever I want. Its more genuine.
UV: If you want to be signed, which label peaks your interest and why?
YC: If I was to be signed I would want to be signed to Reach Records. I am a huge Lecrae, and Andy Mineo fan. My music is somewhat compared to theres. My music has positive messages and I feel I would fit right in with that camp.
UV: How has social media affected your career?
YC: Social media is awesome. Its even more awesome when you do your own social media. You actually get to engage with your fans on a more personal level.
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