In this interview spotlight, I chat with Raw Proof about the latest project Blue Collar Music, motivations, challenges and more.
Full Q&A along with links and music below.
Where are you from and what style of music do you create? (In your own words, not necessarily in marketing terms or by popular genre classifications.)
I travel the hills of Middle Tennessee (931+615) to be exact. Providing the public with those working class witty lyrics laced between the sounds of hard hitting drumbeats. Blue Collar Music.
What led you down this path of music and what motivates you to keep going?
Juggling the dayjob and pursueing a dream is a common act that many go through, especially fellow independent emcees and musicians. So, we thought we would put the emphasis on that catch 22 with the album title and some of the content within the project.
How is this new release different than previous ones? Were you trying to accomplish anything specific?
This release is entirely produced by Eddie B. Taking notes from his older brother, Eddie grew up learning from a major Nashville engineer. (Kenzi Butler) Locally, Eddie has recorded and mixed numerous recording artists from various genres for two whole decades. The aim was to release an album that sounded cohesive but have every track sound unique in its own right.
Name one or two challenges you face as an indie musician in this oversaturated, digital music age? How has technology helped you (since we know it does help)?
Wasting my time with people who are not that serious about succeeding in the industry as I am. I’m at the point now, where if someone really wants to work towards a goal with me, they’re going to have to speak up and reach out. I have way too much already going on and projects to pursue to let my time fly just discussing a whole bunch of good ideas. Many people have great ideas, but not everyone puts them down on paper and pursues them. I want to work with those that are as serious as I am.
Technology has helped motivate me to get out, network, enjoy life and STAY OFF MY PHONE WHILE DRIVING!! It’s the Devil.
What was the last song you listened to?
Lord Have Mercy by Sean Price
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
I prefer C.Ds. Im’a 90’s kid. I still buy compact disks, burn ’em and press them up when I’m ready to drop a project. I keep a CD player in my car.
How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?
Bandcamp.com It’s the most user friendly website for fans of independent music to navigate and purchase music from. Plus, they picked us up and gave B.C.M (Blue Collar Music) a nice review when it dropped. 😁
https://daily.bandcamp.com/2018/08/03/the-best-hip-hop-on-bandcamp-july-2018/
Where is the best place to connect with you online and discover more music?
You can catch me posting ridiculous memes and videos of studio sessions on facebook and instagram @rawproof
Anything else before we sign off?
NEW Project!! 2019!! #Defter Currently, I am working on an Eddie B. produced project with a fellow emcee by the name of Strk9. I’m part of a Hip-Hop Community, primarily based in Nashville. We host weekly and monthly events, from freestyle cyphers to all out displays of recorded material for major independents.
