Back For A Second Chance Renny Tha Rebel Talks New Music and More.

Back For A Second Chance Renny Tha Rebel 

Written by Amirah Kane-Waheed

It may seem difficult to find success as an artist, but discovering yourself and embracing your unique characteristics will give your brand the boost it needs. Using multiple streams of exposure, Renny ThaRebel has leveraged her platforms to take her career to the next level. Her dedication, her use of social media, and her support team have always been her home base for keeping her career leveled and music relevant in the indie music industry. During this conversation, we discussed how she discovered herself, found her sound, and created her own lane to dominate.

Hey Renny, thank you for doing this interview with me. How are you doing today? 

Hey Amirah, I'm doing fine today. I really can't complain; I love what I do. I consider it to be everyday work.

I noticed you are another artist who reps Camden a lot in your music. It's great that you are serious about building your brand and promoting yourself. What part are you from?

I'm from East Camden. Shoutout to the East.

Okay, that's what's up. How has being from East Camden influenced your music and who you are as an artist?

I can honestly say. It has inspired me a lot. Growing up in Camden, I've seen a lot. I've lost friends I grew up with on the streets. Some of them end up in jail or pass, so experiencing that influenced me to change. I realized that my outcome had to be different. It motivated me to inspire others to succeed by letting them know that they can make it out of the projects. I want people to know that making it out of the projects is possible without them forgetting that it's easy to stay stuck there.

What you just said resonates with me mainly because I am too from Camden. Most of us from here have a sense of urgency to grow beyond our struggles and put our city on in the process. What was it like to be raised from the projects and want to positively impact your community?

At first, I started off playing basketball. A lot of my friends knew me to be a basketball player. Eventually, I started rapping and playing ball. When I turned 11, I started playing rap, but it wasn't until high school that I decided to take my music more seriously. While I was in high school, my friend JB and I would listen to JayZ's Blueprint album. There was a song called Renegade; that's where I got my name Renny from. Renny is short for renegade, a word that describes a rebel. So, I came up with Renny ThaRebel. I consider myself a renegade because I go against everything that has a set of rules. I love going the opposite way. It's fun going my own way.

I love it when an artist takes the time to thoroughly plan out the meaning of their stage name. It gives the artist the characteristic background we need to discover more about who you are and how we can relate to you. Go so hard to push your name, and your brand allows fans to give more support. How did you discover your passion for music, and when did you decide to make it a career?

I started making raps with my cousins while rehearsing our drills for a drill team we were on. I used to make my own rhymes and started dancing. When I got to liking it, my cousins stopped, but I kept doing it. When my father passed away at 10, I had no outlet to deal with his passing. A teacher of mine encouraged me to write. The first rap I had ever written was about my father. I kept writing to the point where I was filling composition notebooks with my raps. My cousins, who once overlooked my talent, began paying more attention to my skill. By the time I was in middle school, people had started calling me by my first stage name. Back then, I was A-Money. By age 16, I was in the tenth grade. I changed my stage name to Renny and began discovering my sexuality during that time. It was a coming-of-age experience for me. I recognized that I wasn't as girly as other females because I loved wearing jerseys and things of that nature. Once I became more comfortable with myself and discovered who I truly felt I was, I embodied the name Renny.

What was the transition like from taking your musical talent and turning it into a career for yourself? It's not easy going through those changes of finding yourself. I appreciate you sharing that with me. 

It started with me finding my sound. I had to realize that I couldn't rap like other female rappers. I felt that way mainly because I was not as girly as they were. After going through self-discovery, it became easier for me to feel confident in what I was rapping about. Having freedom as an artist means that you know your lane and find yourself expressing yourself through your music. The next task was for me to find the right beats for my work. Initially, I was recording myself over free industry beats. During my first mixtape stages, I would discover beats that sounded like songs from artists of my liking. The quality and sound of my music began to improve when I started working with producers and local engineers. I wanted to transition from using industry beats to making a solid record.

I appreciate that you talked about the hustle of networking and finding professionals who can give you a high-quality sound behind your music. Many artists I've encountered tell me that they're good at rapping, but they also make their beats. When I listen to their music, the quality of the words is out wade by the low quality of their beats. And I know some artists must have humble beginnings, but it really takes a lot of investing in yourself to produce music to grab the attention of your fans. Cutting corners with your craft hurts your career more than it helps. It's good that you understood that early on so that you can focus more time on perfecting your skills as an artist. 

You released your Hood Dreams EP in 2020, and in my own opinion was a phenomenal body of work. I say it's outstanding because you really went out of your way to find a different sound from what was being produced by other NJ Indies during that time. You have a song called Stay Down featuring Mir Fontane on the project. I have repeatedly said that he is one of my favorite Camden rappers. What was it like collaborating with such an artist, and how did the creative process come about for you?

First, let me just say this on the record by saying that I was in tears during that session. His passion when recording is simply excellent. I was in the middle of a studio session with Don Michael Jr., finishing up the hook, when Mir walked in and asked to listen to what I had recorded so far. He instantly started to vibe with it and whipped out his phone to begin writing. Immediately after typing his words on his phone, he jumped into the booth and began singing. Don and I were blown away. The sound was truly angelic, and I was proud to have picked him to be on the song. When collaborating with artists, you may have a person in mind for the track, but they may not necessarily bring the piece to life as you anticipated. But I knew I had made the right choice with him because I knew his words would be relatable to my fans and people from Camden. I appreciated that he could tap into his pain, allowing himself to be completely vulnerable. He went the extra mile to pull my fans into his world. As an artist, it's essential to have the ability to paint your vision to your fans. Otherwise, they will create the wrong narrative behind your work.

I can recall our first encounter two years ago at Clubhouse. It was a new app then, and I remember always seeing you host rooms where your headline would be something about Camden artists. I would always stop by and listen, and eventually, you would bring me onstage to engage in conversation. I appreciated that because it helped me to be more vocal about my passion for music and establish networking skills from home. Once it was time to hit the real world and go to events where I had to be face to face with people, I was more comfortable expressing myself while networking. With being on Clubhouse and utilizing it to help build your other platforms, how has it allowed your music career to flourish? 

It's the reason why I am talking to you right now. Starting off on Clubhouse helped me kickstart my podcast and my brand to the point where I could network with individuals and tell them what it was that I was doing. It enabled me by placing me in rooms with individuals I probably wouldn't have a chance to talk to if I had to fly out to their office. It gave me easy access to people who had the knowledge to help my career. While on Clubhouse, I was able to get Instagram audits from professionals who told me what I needed to improve with my social media activity. I would sit in rooms and pitch my music to industry moguls and grab the jewels they gave me. Once I had gained 10K followers on Instagram, everything began to change for me. I started receiving more support and had more engagement than ever before. I began to boost my brand by producing high-quality content. A lot of the information I got on Clubhouse was free game and was more valuable to me than any brand deal because a lot of the guidance I received saved me a ton of money.

Let's go back to your Hood Dreams EP. You featured Mir Pesos on your track Get the Bag. I really love the switch inflows on this piece. During my interview with Pes, I told him that he was like the cowboy of Camden, guaranteeing to turn the party up. From what he told me, he's like a Tasmanian Devil in the studio. What was your experience working with him on this track?

Well, I can honestly say that he is so entertaining and dope. One night after leaving a session, I went to another session where Fre$ko and Mir were already there recording. As soon as I got there, he asked me to put the beat on. I turned the beat on, and he started turning up and dancing all around the studio. By the time I started recording my verse and finished, he was already done writing his verse down and ready to record. I remember him instantly killing the track once he started recording. Everyone present in the studio was amazed at the punchlines he was spitting. Mir is an artist in his own element who knows the lane he works best in. He gave his 100 percent on that piece.

I've never experienced seeing him in the studio, but I can visualize it based on the stories I have gathered from you all. Are you currently working on any new music for the summer?

I am working on a Jersey club version of my song Count It Up. I will be collaborating with RoBB on this track. He has the Ain't No Way challenge blowing up on Tik Tok, so it's only right that he produced this joint. I am also preparing for the Count It Up video, and my fans can anticipate the release of Hood Dreams 2.

Wow, you are going to have such a busy and productive year! 

Everything is happening so fast. When people say that things can happen overnight, they can if you work hard.

What has been the biggest highlight of your career so far?

I had premiered Count It Up in a room full of accredited writers and music moguls such as Derek Milano while on Clubhouse. They complimented my music and told me that my work could really go far. That moment gave me the validation I needed to keep going. I felt like I had finally made it. From then on out, I stayed dedicated entirely to my career. I missed a lot of sleep and canceled many plans with my friends to boost my brand even further. There were times when I wanted to pop bottles with my friends, but I had to invest in my career instead.

I respect the fact that you made investing in your career a priority. Artists will never get their music off the front porch if they do not invest in themselves. What is some additional advice you can give some of the NJ indies who read our blog for gems for artists like yourself?

Find yourself and find your sound. Then find your lane. I'm not the artist I am because I tried to be like Da Brat or Missy Eliot. I have to be Renny. As an artist, you got to own your brand, your name, and your lane. You have to believe that your dreams will happen if you stay patient and consistent. I started doing this when I was 16; now, I'm in my 30s. I'm still in the projects, but I keep going. Use as many free resources as possible and tools that you can. People will take you seriously if they see you working hard and putting in the effort. The artists you know who are making it are putting in the work. Study what they are doing and apply the method for your own career. You must have a supportive team as well. There will be times when you feel like quitting, but a good team will make sure they support you 100 percent. When your team sees you putting in the effort, they will help you.

This summer, keep an eye out for Renny's upcoming projects. This is an incredibly inspiring journey that will encourage other artists to keep going even when support from others seems thin. In her music, she tells the story of staying in touch with your roots yet reaching high enough to be known all over the world.

Follow Renny Tha Rebel - https://www.instagram.com/rennytharebel/

Renny Tha Rebel Exclusive Interview

             

Our Powers Combined Event in Camden, NJ

 

Our Powers Combined Event in Camden, NJ

Written by Amirah Kane-Waheed

The weekend was all about good vibes and music appreciation. We were privileged to cover the With Our Powers Combined Earth Day community service event at Liney Ditch Park in Camden, NJ. The event was powered by the Center for Environmental Transformation. It was an amazing day filled with amazing activities for children to participate in and for music lovers to enjoy the talented artists showcasing their talents. 

Camden Renaissance Leaders hosted a musical showcase that we exclusively covered. Dope artists such as Sol Chyld, Christian SkyDeck, Rokstar Culture, Drey Viloria, and TanishaMarie gave inspiring performances. Each of the performers was highly talented and showed great energy. 

TanishaMarie, a member of Camden Renaissance Leaders, gave us an insight into the purpose of these open mics. Through music and other inspiring art acts, their mission is to encourage individuals to find themselves. Good Vibes Open Mic is one of the series she participates in.

Each month, Good Vibes Open Mic showcases local musicians in the city of Camden and nearby towns. In addition to promoting positivity and self-awareness, the open mic raises awareness of current social issues as well. The Camden Renaissance Leaders host it next to Donkey's Cheesesteaks in the Parkside section of Camden, at the Learning Garden. Every last Saturday of the month, from 7 to 10 p.m., the open mic is held. The next open mic is scheduled for April 30. You can follow TanishaMarie on Instagram at @tanishamariemusic to learn more about this event. 

All photos were taken by Jersey Watch Writer - Amirah Kane-Waheed

The Rise of Mir Pesos

 

From Riding Around Camden to 500K on Youtube 

This is the Rise of Mir Pesos 

Written by Amirah Kane-Waheed

Bad boys in hip-hop must remain unapologetic and authentic in all facets of their lives. The story of Mir Pesos proves him to be one who escaped the inevitabilities of inner-city life despite the many forces that oppose positive change. By utilizing his passion for music, he traded his past for a new beginning. 

In contrast to his younger years, Mir Pesos inspires the youth in his neighborhood to make better choices in life by rapping about the lessons he's learned. During an exclusive interview with our writer Amirah, Pesos gave us his perspective on music's social impact, the recent controversy involving Cardi B, Nicki Minaj's validation, and unique persona.

Hey Pesos, thanks so much for taking the time to do this interview with me. How are you?

I’m good, I woke up a little late, but I’m alright. I can’t complain. 

My best mornings are when I wake up early. I tend to get the most accomplished when I wake up early. Getting an early start to my day helps me be more productive. You represent Camden quite well in your music, and I'm curious to know what part you hail.

I spent some time in Cramer Hill, but I'm from 6th and Ferry. 6th and Ferry are where I was born and raised. If nobody else does, I will represent my city. 

In our previous conversation, you told me your grandmother raised you. What was that like for you?

I lived with my mom, who was a single parent. She sometimes worked two or three jobs at once, so we would end up at mom-mom's house. Many of my cousins already lived at her house. As I got older, I began to do my own thing.

 How has your background helped you develop as an artist, and how has it impacted your work? I recall my siblings, cousins, and I being dumped at my grandmom's house whenever our parents wanted to go out or be alone. We would just be outside all day and all night during that time.

I've seen a lot of things. It is possible to stay out of the streets, but many outside influences draw you into them. As a child, I experienced so many things growing up in Camden. Life has been full of trials and tribulations. My music portrays everything about being from Camden.

The fact that you said that is interesting because King Shinobe spoke about the polarity in lifestyles of people who live in the hood in a recent interview. He stressed the importance of deciding if you want to live by the streets or pursue a music career full-time. As you point out, there is another reality that some people may feel like they do not have a choice due to their upbringing. Would you mind explaining that perspective more?

Being good is twice as hard. Social media influences people in this generation. The influence is so strong that if I went on there and told a lie, there would be some people who would believe me. Rappers have a great deal of influence over their audiences. Hip-hop music when I was a kid was about drugs; nowadays, it's about killing their boys. Today's rap has a different influence on kids, and it affects them differently. Students in Camden have few school programs to attend. Homelessness, people looking for drugs, and other illegal activities are the first things children here see when they wake up and go to school. In addition, they see people hustling on the corner. Since they see them wearing nice jewelry and driving nice cars, they don't think to ask them if they’ve gotten shot or been to jail. They already have a mindset of wanting that lifestyle, but they don't fully comprehend the drama behind maintaining that image while running the streets. 

During an interview with the Detroit Hip Hop Society, Dr. Wesley Muhammad discussed the evolution of hip-hop and its influence on black youth. Rappers are the gods of the black community, he said. What he said resonated with me because hip-hop artists tell true stories based on what goes on in the black community. Depending on how you portray our culture, it could serve as a tool to help us succeed as a people, or it could serve as a weapon to destroy us. What do you think about hip-hop's evolution, and how can we improve its content to change the conditions of our community? 

I believe if you choose to rap the harsher accounts of the hood, you should go back and inspire the children to do things differently. When I rap, I talk mostly about my past and the struggles I have faced, so I take that opportunity to give back to my community and offer incentives to young people. I encourage them to become great by hosting basketball tournaments and showing them what I truly stand for, which is quite different from what they hear me say. It is also through music that I raise funds for the community.

I love that. When you were a youth, how did you discover your love of music?

My dream has always been to be an entertainer. I dreamt of being on Nickelodeon's All That when I was a kid. I was always passionate about being in the entertainment industry. My cousins who lived at my grandmom's crib greatly influenced me while I was there. It was fun watching them dress, listen to music, and get hyped up when their favorite artists appeared on the radio. I wanted to be what they glorified. When I went to jail, my passion for rap developed. When I returned home, I lost my job and could not find another; I had nothing else to do but write. I began taking myself more seriously and attended a showcase as an artist. Once I did that, people started recognizing my talent, and that's when I began to take it more seriously. 

I love hearing these stories when artists realize their talent is legit and should start developing themselves further. When did you discover your talent earlier in your career? It usually happens after impromptu cyphers or rap battles in a friend's basement. 

As a child, I didn't think of myself as a rapper, but I was the subject of a diss track. I wrote a reply instead to fight the person in my initial response. As much as I wanted to go to his house and fight him, I realized I would allow him to benefit from my name for years if I didn't respond with a song. In the end, I responded with both. I wrote the song and went over to his house. *He laughs as he reminisces* I didn't take my music career seriously at the time. The musicians in Jersey didn't get recognition, so I decided to be a football player. 

Your statement is interesting because when they talk about their passion, most artists say they initially thought it was something else, but eventually, music calls them back. When did you decide to devote yourself entirely to music?

After being released from jail, I had no intention of going home and doing nothing. At first, I took up music as a hobby. Having done the showcase and seeing how my peers responded, I gave myself two years to make this a full-fledged career. After that, my career took off, and then the Cardi B situation catapulted things. Since my music was different from what Jersey had been producing, I believe it launched so quickly. The twang makes people think I'm from the South when I talk. 

As I listen to your music, I get the impression that you're the cowboy of Camden. As soon as you enter a room, you will shake the tables. You're like the Tazmanian Devil, wild and everywhere when you're on a track. Your music turns up the vibes for any function. Having heard the snippet for the video of your song Stuck, I instantly felt the energy you gave was on 10. You set the standard for your music’s vibe in the first verse with your energy. Mir Fontane's hook makes the piece solid once he comes in. In the past, I've discussed Mir Fontane's artistry and how he seals records with his signature touch. You balanced your differing styles of expression harmoniously together. Describe the song's creative process and how it came about. 

A friend of mine and I were recording in his studio. If I am bored and have nothing to do, I often feel compelled to hit the studio. As you said, I’m a Tazmanian Devil in the studio because once I get loose, I begin to start knocking out songs. At one point, I recorded four tracks in one sitting. It was one of those productive days. My producer Wayne Campbell began playing a beat he was still working on when I reached the last song, and I was instantly inspired to get on it. I did not write down my verse initially, and I just started spitting it out uninterrupted.

I record directly from my head after getting a feel for the beat in most cases. All of us, including Mir, who was sitting in the room, were amazed at what I had come up with once I stopped spitting. The hook for the song had not yet come to me. He had already begun working upon my arrival, and I could see him heavily into the track while recording it. After the session, I urged him to come up with whatever he wrote. As soon as he got on the track, the bar broke.

I wish I could have witnessed the creative process for this track. Let’s talk about the Cardi B incident surrounding the song. I remember the morning of the controversy when a friend of mine accused Cardi B of stealing a piece from a Camden artist. I decided to look more into her claim. I found that the hook for her song Up was a replica of the hook for Stuck. As a Camden artist, I felt we were all robbed. Your song was so lit, and I feel as though if your work inspired someone from her team, they should have found ways to collaborate with you. Instead, they chose to benefit from someone else’s hard work. 

I honestly try to do the same things that they are doing. I didn’t have a reality show to kickstart my career or a significant following on social media. I live in Camden, which is ten times smaller than the size of New York City. Chances of my music picking up are slimmer than most, so for someone to go out of their way to make it harder for artists like me is confusing. I put a lot of faith behind Stuck because it stood out from the other songs. 

To be honest, I like Stuck better because it reflects what Camden is and the people from here. The song’s essence came from the culture we have here. Was there a chance that someone from Cardi’s team or an affiliate associated with Up may have been present during the making of Stuck?

Yes, however, we are going through the legal process with the whole thing, so I can’t talk about it—even though someone was in the room.

I understand. If anyone wants to know without you confirming, researching it for themselves would provide an answer; paperwork does not lie. On the flip side of things, how did you react to Nicki Minaj shouting out Camden after the whole ordeal? I felt like a notion of justice was granted from the Queen when she validated your hard work. Artists aren’t always in control of some of the shady deals behind the scene in this industry. However, Nicki gave you her support on her track Seeing Green. How did that make you feel?

I love Nicki, man! She can do no wrong in my eyes. I felt like she stuck up for us, despite her maybe moving on her agenda. I don’t have anything wrong to say about her; I will always love her for that. She’s in the industry's cream, so she caught wind of what went on and took that opportunity to stick her neck out for us. It’s not like they will blackball her; they have tried it already and weren’t successful. 

She’s been on this new wave of revitalizing hip hop again, and acknowledging you at that moment on such a groundbreaking track was a big win for you. It made me look at her differently; she’s playing her own chess game. However, she still stays dedicated to the culture enough to render support to any hard-working artist regardless of their level. Some hip-hop enthusiasts feel they cannot relate or connect to today’s expression of art. They don’t see the impact that it is making for some. Considering your music, how do you feel hip-hop can positively impact the world?

I try to send out positive vibes, period. For instance, if someone is upset at a party playing my music, I want their whole vibe to become positive. I make music for the person working out in the gym going H.A.M. My music is for switching the vibes entirely positive. Whether you need to start your day in the morning or turn up before going to the club with your friends, my music will give you energy. The problems in your life shouldn’t be that deep after hearing my music because it will put you in a better mood. I send personal messages in my music, and those who listen know. I live through my music. I rap about my past mostly; I’m a different man than when I was in the streets. I would be a hypocrite if I tried to rap as if I still lived my past life. The streets are not a game; jail is not fun. 

I respect the transparency you are giving me now. Can your fans look forward to getting another joint project with Mir similar to your EP Twin Stix? 

I’m getting back to business for the summer. I’ve been hibernating during the winter and handling family matters. I am releasing my second project, Pocket Rocket Pes, soon. Once finalized contracts and paperwork are signed, our fans can anticipate another joint project. 

We need some dope music for the summer. What has been your biggest highlight in your career thus far?

I was performing at All-Star weekend in Atlanta. We were promoting the song during that time. Mir wasn’t with me, but I performed Stuck there. 

What is some advice you would like to give our NJ Indies who read the blog?

Do not allow anyone to tell you that you can’t do your art. I always put my mind to something and stayed consistent. The more time you spend developing yourself as an artist, the better you’ll be. You are only going to improve with consistency. Life isn’t always going to throw you the oop. Closed mouths don’t get fed; start networking with like-minded individuals when you’re out there. 

Watch out for Mir Pesos' upcoming shows and the release of his new music. His music keeps the vibes positive while paying tribute to his roots. Through his music, he teaches today's youth that having an undesirable past does not mean they cannot pursue a fresh start in life.

Follow Mir Pesos - https://www.instagram.com/pesos500/

Mir Peso's Exclusive Interview 

Members Only in Philly, a place for indie artist to be

 

Members Only this Monday was another good one!

Every Monday, if you are an indie artist then Missy Porter's Member's Only is where you need to be. It has been a long going event every Monday at 1122 MMG Studios in Kensington. Many artists have come in and out of the doors and set the party off. This Monday, Alleah Thomas of Cutty TV was in the building to check out the rising talent in the city. The DJ of the night was DJ Aktive and they also had some vendors in the building also Bwear farms had their strain of Moplato in the building which is a strain created by Philly artist Lil Mop Top. We checked out a couple of performers and took some notes down. 

The talent in Members Only is always different every week, this week we had a nice mix. We had published model Golden iiiiVy in the building that was performing. She set the tone for the performers by being one of the female performers of the night. Another artist we took notice of was Nef Bezos he had high energy and kept the show going. Our highlight performer is King Lurk who came and shut the place down out of everyone. He made his presence felt and really got into the crowd, we can see the passion he has for his music. Ace Da Khemist also did a set with a couple features, introducing some new and familiar faces including King Shinobe to the Member's Only community. 

There was also other artist in the building who really make great music that if you weren't at the event you need to go. You can always find music that you like by someone who lives in your city. Make sure you follow the Members Only Instagram to find out about the next opporunity! Contact Missy Porter to perform. 

Follow Missy Porter - https://www.instagram.com/missy_porter_/

Sol Chyld a flower rising from Camden's cement

 

Exclusive Amirah's Conversation W/ Sol Chyld 

Written by Amirah Kane-Waheed 

Marginalized musicians are victims of musical slavery. No matter what direction the artist is heading, music should broaden the minds of its listeners. Hip-hop is currently suffering because of the limits on an artist's creativity. We should give artists the right to express themselves in whatever way they choose. Sol Chyld, an outstanding artist from Camden, New Jersey, sat with me. Our team managed to meet this artist, and we had a deep discussion about what it's like to be encompassed by the world of music and art. Sol Chyld's art is devoted to her love for black culture. Sol, a Camden City Public Schools product, has learned from educators who invest wisdom in Camden youth. Having accomplished her mission, she has returned to school and teaches current students the importance of attaining greatness and never giving up on themselves. Sol Chyld is a fearless and innovative musician who has used her music to fight for social change in Camden. She has demonstrated that being an oddball is a sacrifice that she is willing to make to change the world. 

During our conversation, Sol Chyld revealed her journey of self-discovery, memorable moments from her career, an exclusive on the upcoming release of an album, and topics surrounding black culture. In particular, she offers advice for independent artists to keep their fans intrigued and appreciative of their work. 

Greetings, Sol Chlyd! Thank you for taking the time to talk with me today. I appreciate it. How are you doing today?

I am feeling good; no complaints at all. 

I hear birds chirping in your background. Are you outside right now?

Yes, ma’am, I am walking around. I’ve had such a long day and had to clear my head. I’ve found a great spot in my location to do so. 

We need to reconnect with nature and the authentic way of life now and then to give our minds a rest.

Despite not being completely slept on by others, I have slept on it recently. Listening to the wind or birds and having the opportunity to space out have been therapeutic. It has given me peace of mind.  

It would be good if I took more time to recenter myself. My workload often gets me, so I need to reconnect with my inner peace. I appreciate the reminder you unknowingly gave me. You have an outstanding musical taste. Your artistry is comparable to a blacksmith's. Metals such as iron are welded and refined by blacksmiths. Although the metal appears rough and black at first glance, it holds a lot of richness. To reshape and refine iron, a blacksmith uses strength and ability. You are a gifted wordsmith. Despite our imperfections, the hood appreciates your music. When you share a message of hope, change, love, and self-knowledge with listeners, you refine their minds. How did you discover your passion for music, and when did you decide to pursue it professionally?

Thank you so much. While attending Freedom Academy in seventh grade, I joined a poetry collective. Hasan Malik coached us for three months. Hasan has greatly influenced my career; for someone to dedicate three months to extensively teaching us poetry was highly appreciated, as it planted a mustard seed within me. During my sophomore year of high school, I joined another poetry collective. That was the same year I recorded my first studio recording. During a recording session, my friend invited me to hop in the booth for the first time. I was underdeveloped as an artist at the time. As an artist, I decided to take up music seriously towards the end of 2018. While in college, I wasn't thrilled about going to school. When I wasn't studying music theory, I couldn't focus and pay attention in class. It was then that I realized music was my passion. 

Let's explore this further. Describe your journey to becoming a fully-fledged artist. 

My circumstances led me to drop out. The school had lost its funding for students. Previously, I had a full-ride scholarship, but the school no longer offered that. My finances were too tight, so I had to stop going to school. As far as I am concerned, I would not present myself as forced to leave because I wanted to pursue a different career. I was so lost when I returned home. Society tells us to go to college straight after high school, graduate, get married, and start a family in a house with a white picket fence. We are taught the so-called components of a "happy ever after" lifestyle. I was clueless about what I wanted to do, but I have always been great at creating. Whether through dance, screenwriting, or music, my ability to create has always been a gift. I decided to continue with music, and I haven't looked back since.

Your story is heavy. I remember when I first encountered your art. There was a protest at City Hall in Camden. In your march with other community members, you called for a social change in the relationship between the community and the police. The protest was the result of the death of George Floyd. I witnessed Camden's youth uniting and fighting against social injustice for the first time in my life. Men, women, and children saw your performance of "Ignant." You were fearless, powerful, and dope! I was impressed with your eclectic, bold, and soulful stage presence. I saw you as God's wrath for the long period of suffrage my city endured. Everyone who watched you could feel it. When you told the crowd to drop the f-bomb several times, kids included, that was the highlight of the performance. Despite their reluctance at first, the anger they felt began to pour out, and healing began. 

Afterward, a parent whose child was present approached me. ‘You asked the crowd to utter the F-word on stage,' she said. ‘I got goosebumps when my daughter said, “Mom, please!”' She then told me that she let her daughter say it. The moment will be unforgettable for her. That protest was an out-of-body experience for me as I became emotionally engulfed. I was angry and nervous as quick thoughts rushed through my mind.

When you saged a police officer during the protest, it was hilarious. I have never seen that before. 

Yes, I have a picture of me saging the officer. He thought I was gesturing for a hug in the picture. In truth, I wanted to sage him to ensure that his intentions would be pure at the protest. 

I love it! Regarding the spelling of your name, I wonder what it means. Do you have a particular reason behind how you spelled it?

My name has multiple meanings. The day before a show I was scheduled to perform, I had no stage name. I decided that my stage name would be "Soul Child.” As a result, I played on the spelling so people would not think I had an affiliation with Musiq Soulchild. Sunlight is a vital part of my being, especially when I experience seasonal depression. The sun makes me feel good. I want people to feel good, love themselves, and be happy in my presence. To explain why I spelled child the way it is, I will refer to a line in my song "Save Yourself". I wrote, “I'm not knocking y'all, I tell my truth, and that is all. My word is bond, and that is law. You love yourself and all your flaws. Without the team, you can't ball. No 'i' in child, no 'u' in soul. No you in y’all. But this one for you and y'all is for you and y’all.” 

What a dope artist you are. The single "Grow" that you released recently features Mir Fontane and Wayne Campbell. The persona you portray in this piece reminds me of the woman who played Ray Charles' mother in his biopic. Ray would recall the moral lessons she taught him on the world's cruelties as she sat on the porch of his childhood home. When he engaged in life's difficulties, she always told him where and where not to go in her melancholy but stern tone. There is so much pain in Fontane's melodic hook, but he yearns for recognition. His work is outstanding. I resonate with it because I, too, am from Camden, and many of us who are striving to grow consider ourselves to be roses that grew out of concrete. 

My favorite verse out of the entire song is the second verse. I find my poetic approach to that verse very touching, especially the part where I say, "...cops shot and pumped a couple of pops and poor kids." Things like that we might not want to experience. Although we might want to turn up and escape what is happening, it is happening. I wrote the first verse of a phenomenal song called "Mystic Voyage” by Roy Aires. As a shoutout to Roy, I mention Mystic Voyage in the first line of Grow. I wrote, “...travel through this mystical voyage. Lost in forest of colors red and tropical orange….” It's difficult for many artists to rhyme orange with anything, so I wanted a word to rhyme with orange. Eminem's explanation of rhyming the phrase in an interview inspired me to create this. To make the phrase sound rhythmic, you have to manipulate its sound when you say it. It's fun to learn the rules of poetry so you can bend them. This technique allows you to control them as you see fit for whatever purpose you desire. 

You’ve made an excellent point. Writing and reading poetry are among my favorite pastimes. The evidence of an experienced poet is when their readers cannot discern a rhyme scheme while reading, but once they hear you recite the poem aloud, they understand it. The artist has worked hard to encrypt themselves in their work. If your listeners can’t detect your tone or aren't familiar with your work, they won’t understand the poem's meaning. My first encounter with you was at a Caribbean festival in Camden. While analyzing your whole persona, I discovered many exciting things about you. For example, I used to embark on scavenger hunts to find glass mosaics by Isaiah Zagar on South Street in Philly when I was a teenager. To find out more about the artist, I used to scour the area. While analyzing you, I discovered your coiled locks with bottle caps at the ends, your unique style of dress, and then your walking stick. You're so electrifying when you perform. It’s like you’re bouncing off the walls! Could you please explain why you walk with a stick?

Is it possible to be 100% transparent? Even though I don't feel it on stage, it took me many years to develop my stage persona because I have social anxiety. Apart from being Sol Chyld, I am a tranquil person. My walking stick symbolizes my strength and stability, and it takes me time to warm up to someone. I feel invincible when carrying my walking stick; nothing can knock me down. My walking stick helps me feel confident on difficult days, at shows, in the studio, and even when I'm feeling down. It is something that everyone should have, whether it's a scarf or your favorite pocketbook. People make fun of my Aladdin pants, but I love them. They're colorful and comfortable. I've never hopped on the fashion trend; I just f— with being the oddball.

I'm impressed. A change-maker is ultimately the one who ushers in the future for us. What music are you working on at the moment?

I’m about to drop the title exclusively for you. "Eyes Towards the Sun" is the name of my next project. As you listen to the album, you will understand the meaning of its title. The second project I am working on will be different from the first. My first album has its own canvas. For this new project, I have used new paintbrushes. Making this album successful is based on knowing the goal of the artwork. I wrote my first album when I was about 18 or 19 years old, and I had a very scant understanding of myself. It was when I was trying to establish myself as a proficient rapper. I didn't necessarily feel I had to prove myself with this upcoming project. In this project, I was creating with the sole intention of liking what I heard. Through this project, I became an artist in a sense. 

Do you have a deeper perception of artists who have to prove themselves in a room surrounded by established individuals? Honestly, some people feel like you owe them something when you're in a room. As a writer, I've experienced this myself. It's easy to lose your purpose in rooms with other seasoned people. Your presence in the room adds to the ambiance. The question is: what makes you shine? Where are you plugged in? Every individual is a star in their own right, but what is the source from which you draw your inspiration? 

One of the challenges we have as a people is that we do not understand one another enough. Often, we find it difficult to let others be themselves as they are. Sometimes, when people do not meet certain specifics, we try to change them. The majority of our people are not living their purpose due to society's limitations. Many people who cannot let others be themselves cannot even be themselves. Currently, you and I are conversing. Perhaps you are wondering what dinner you are cooking tonight, or maybe I am wondering what pajamas I am about to put on. By not worrying about a future we do not dictate, we will be able to be in these moments and have these conversations. What matters most is to live in the present and enjoy what we have. Instead of recognizing that we have the choice of moving along and letting others be, we judge others often based on their characteristics or character traits. Our culture has an obsession with changing people and creating narratives of others they deem comfortable.

That's pretty deep. In terms of our mindset as black people, we tend to be very critical of one another. In my younger years, I could easily say that "sister so and so is a hater" or "brother so and so is a hater," but I found it challenging to maintain that mindset as I grew older. Take a look at the condition society forced us in. We no longer see ourselves as black gods due to 400 plus years of mental slavery. How do you feel about that?

Most of us are raised for survival, not in love. You either receive it at birth, or you must acquire it in the best possible way you knew how. As a teenager, I assumed that Camden was huge, but I realized that I had taken on a hood mentality when I moved. As soon as I realized that, I decided not to pass it on to my children when I became a mother. Being open to change makes you less defensive. To learn more about ourselves, we need to travel outside the neighborhood. When I traveled outside of my home, I was less dependent on others. Since a single mother raised me, I did not know what it was like to depend on both parents. I relied entirely on her. I learned to give love to my people when I left home, and I also learned to receive it from them. 

That is an interesting point to consider. I believe love is a duty. Don't get me wrong, I love being a mother, but there are parts of motherhood I don't like. Other bloggers who rave and only post about the good things have made me think I was ready to be a mother. After becoming a mother, I realized that they had sold me a dream. Our people are in the same boat. Although I love black people to death, there are some things we do to one another that I don't like. While it's one thing to say we love black people, do they understand that we have to love each other for our current state to improve? I would not love myself if I did not cherish my people. While I love every one of you, I don't like seeing brothers sell drugs to one another. I do not like seeing our sisters strung up on the corner. I do not intend to glorify us so much that we forget we have work to do in our community. Let's start living up to our potential. No matter what, we just have to activate what is in us to make us better. Let's begin with the mind. 

Yo, some of those drug dealers might be the most successful entrepreneurs. However, they are not applying themselves where we need them. We must realize that white politics did not mean for black people to benefit from building the "American Dream." We were beaten, exploited, and killed to make this land fruitful without receiving any gain. We are still trying to figure out where to put our feet. While teaching creative writing at my alma mater, I always encouraged my students to "do it." They should never give up because they can succeed if they put their minds to it. Even if you sucked on day 1, by day 450, you better be the best because you never stopped. Our youth need to hear life-giving words, as there are millions of them searching for them. We cannot ignore them anymore. In grade school, Hasan Malik planted the mustard seeds that led me to become the artist I am today. Imagine speaking life into 30 students. You can just imagine the impact. 

As an artist, I've gained a deeper understanding of you through this conversation. What has been your most excellent career highlight to date?

Please don't think I'm a bighead. I put my accomplishments in my backpack and keep moving forward. I would have to say that my favorite moment to date was standing at City Hall yelling, 'F— you're to the police. The performance of "Ignant" at the rally was incredible. 

I've enjoyed learning more about you and the art you create. Would you like to tell our readers who are independent artists anything else before you leave?

Don't hold back. Give up the fear you have that people won't appreciate your art and let go of your doubt. F— that! You've just got to go for it and hope for the best. Don't let anything stop you from being passionate about your work. In addition, strive to give your work the quality it deserves. Invest in your marketing efforts. Having high-quality content gives your listeners what they deserve. If you half a– your fans, they will reduce their support. Good content is essential to them.

Keep an eye out for Sol Chyld’s upcoming shows and the release of her new album. As a musician, she demonstrates to the world and her fans the importance of standing out while bringing about necessary changes in modern music. 

Follow Sol Chyld - https://www.instagram.com/solchyld/

Sol Chyld - Pluto (Official Music Video)