Hailing all the way from the Midwest, Tone Da Boss, who has worked with Juicy J, Wiz Khalifa, Royce Da 5’9, Crooked I, G-Unit, and Young Money, is on a mission to manifest himself to greatness. In this exclusive interview, he gets personal about his inspirations, challenges, and future in Hip Hop.
What inspired you to get into the music industry?
I started off as a Poet, just putting words together to express my feelings. Growing up as a black kid in Chicago we are taught to be tough, be a soldier, never really show emotion. But I was different, I was a very open and emotional child. In order to satisfy my need to express myself writing was my outlet. Poetry evolved into rap.
As far rapping career wise, I started with a group of lifelong friends. Like I said, I had been writing but they were on the next level (which they were recording at a studio). They were part of a group Big Bang which consist of singers and rappers. I joined Big Bang in 2002, we generated over a million views organically, did a song with Nate Dogg before he passed, performed with Wiz Khalifa, and so much more. I owe my entire career to that group to the point that they pushed me to become the solo artist I am today.
What have been some challenges you have faces being the music industry?
The challenge I’ve faced in the music is industry getting nationwide coverage. Being in Iowa, there is little to no entertainment presence. Everyone leaves to get more attention and exposure. While that seems like an impossible situation to some, I looked at it as an opportunity to take advantage of. If I become one of the pioneers to take over in this state and provide opportunities for other talent here then I’ve done my part. I’m willing to do whatever it takes to really put my state on the map and to give back to those who feel like there is no hope.
What are some of the most memorable moments in your career so far?
Meeting, performing, and recording with Wiz Khalifa was a hell of time it was right before he really blew up. I remember having a song be featured on XXL for the first time and the moment I saw they posted it my laptop died. Performing in front of sold-out crowds are always great but when it’s a show that we setup from booking the venue, promoting, and giving other artist opportunities to perform are the moments I cherish the most. And my most recent most memorable moment that I’m excited about is signing with my new manager DJ K Yung, which is a move that I should have pushed for sooner, but I feel now is the perfect time.
What do you want to leave behind in regard to your legacy?
I want to help as many musicians as possible and youth live out their dreams. Whether it’s me working with them, opening doors for them or just inspiring them. It doesn’t even have to be music. I started at age 12 which helped me get off the streets and into the recording booth, I want to pass on that tradition one way or another.
What advice would you have for anyone who wants to join the music industry?
Be ready to invest, however don’t make everything you do about money. Some opportunities I received is because I did favors, I helped others, with little or no expectations on a return. Collaborate, advertise, learn the business, travel and network. Relationships are key. Sometimes it’s not what you know it’s who you know that gets you there, and after you’re there, it’s what you know that will keep you there.
So, what is next for you?
I’m working on several projects at once now. My next release is my Antonio Album which features my songs Free, Fear, Stuck Inside and Anxiety & Depression (which are all out now). Antonio tells my story from beginning to present day including a death of the Tone Da Boss character. I also have a mixtape I’m excited for with DJWhoo Kid (where I cover all the G-Unit songs that got me into rap to begin with).
2021 is kicking off to be a great year for Tone Da Bass. His latest single is called “Free” and talks about a life after the pandemic is over, his personal journey after divorce, leaving his nine-to-five job after 10 years, and finally living Free. Watch it here:
His video will air on the Popfuzion Top 10 Music Video Countdown Saturday, January 30, 2021 at 11:00pm PSTand Tuesday at 11:00pm PST Spectrum ch.32 and AT&T U-verse ch.99 in Los Angeles County areas of Burbank,Pasadena, North Hollywood and more.
Livestream link: https://www.
It will also air in Virginia and the DC metropolitan areas on Friday at 4:30pm EST on:
Cox cable ch.10, Verizon Fios ch.10, and Comcast ch.10
AREAS AND CABLE CHANNELS FOR VIRGINIA/NORTHERN VIRGINIA:
https://www.fcac.org/fpa-
TIMES AND DATES:
https://fcac.org/search/node/
You can also view the segments on the Popfuzion tv YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/
—
