What do you think were the favorable circumstances that made 2015 a breakout year for you?
Networking with the right people. I used to go to open mics/showcases to perform and pass out music only. This year I made a promise to myself to leave venues with contact information of those who I think could be beneficial to my career, whether I perform or not. I also live by the acronym C.E.O. which stands for consistency, efficiency, and organization.
What do you think is contributing to the prevalence of thirst in this day and age?
Those who respond it. Turn a blind eye to the thirst, and it will eventually go away. The media has programmed us to feed into negativity, from what’s aired on television to the type of music regularly played on mainstream radio.
What was the most influential Atlanta artist in your life and in what way?
Outkast/Goodie MOB. They weren't afraid to be themselves. They delivered messages with street smarts. Their sound was so left field, that they could not be ignored. The issue that they spoke on touched the scholars and the streets. it's rare that an artist is appealing to both and respected by all.
How did you stumble on the idea to run street campaigns to increase sales?
I wanted to connect to with the people. Instead of seeing my face and hearing my voice over the internet, I want you to be able to say 3 years from now "Skinny approached me like a regular guy, shook my hand, and personally handed me his album/mixtape". How many artists attempt to reach the people personally? I think its humbling when you take time to actually converse with someone and explain what my purpose is.
What’s one thing you wish you could tell a younger you?
Give it 110% now because time doesn't wait for anyone. And fuck with those who fuck with you. In my younger days I was wasting money by trying to work with so and so because they had a name. Whether it be a producer, graphic designer, photographer, dj, etc. But at the end of the day, most of these guys just look at you as a paycheck. I no longer chase people down. I keep tabs on who is rocking with me. Who comes to my shows, who reaches out to me, who supports my movement as if it's theirs. And those are the people who I now cater to.