We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Raw Proof. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Raw below.
Hi Raw, appreciate you sitting with us today. Maybe we can start with a topic that we care deeply about because it’s something we’ve found really sets folks apart and can make all the difference in whether someone reaches their goals. Self discipline seems to have an outsized impact on how someone’s life plays out and so we’d love to hear about how you developed yours?
I was raised in a military household. We had numerous chores and tasks to complete each week. Moms was like a clean freak and Dad was in the military so being on time and completing the mission to the fullest extent was always expected. No excuses.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
Write, recite, record, perform. In that order. That is what I do. There is no better form of therapy than having a peaceful-scenic view, with a boom bap beat playing in the background, a pen and a pad, and alone time.
The project I’m working on now will be the most personal by far. A childhood picture will represent the artwork. Songs about brotherhood, ancestry, loving again as well as a crowd sourced idea that calls for me to go back in time to talk to my younger self.
I am very amped up to complete the next project. It will be entirely produced by Zack Daniels. The music videos will be shot and edited by Reel Spill films. New merchandise will also be available to go along side the album.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Growing up in a military household, we moved a lot. Therefore, touring or relocating for the mission of spreading music came easy to me.
Impeccable hearing. They tested my ears at Meps when I entertained the idea of signing up for the service. My scores were off the charts. This allows me to play the role of an engineer and mix my own recordings.
Gratefulness. I continue to be grateful for all the things I have accomplished and the many opportunities I have seized. Practicing gratitude is a must because the flow of positive vibes keeps me motivated and inspired to create more!!
My advice for those just beginning their journey through the realm of music is to develop these traits and more…
Traveling is fairly cheap, but if you can’t afford it, there are dozens of jobs out there that include room and board. You have to get outside of your comfort zone and explore different parts of the map.
To get better at mixing music, I advise the young and wise to listen to an album that you really admire, and make it a mission to match that sound that you admire.
Being grateful is a learned behavior. The more you practice, the easier it gets. Giving and receiving opportunities from your fellow artists feels great! Try to participate in that as much as possible.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
The Social Media Cheatcode. This book was written by Blueprint. It forced me to look at analytics, which I dreaded to do for a long time. I really appreciate the exercises at the end of each chapter.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.rawproof.net
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/rawproof
