We are always looking to break new artists whenever we can. This week’s A&R Report is proud to introduce Chi City. After dominating several industry showcases and receiving rave reviews, the Chicago native is ready for big leagues.
When did you start performing? My first performance was actually at the age of 15. Even though I was already doing music before then, I really didn’t get the chance to hit the stage until later on. I guess you can say at that time I was still trying to figure out who I was as an artist. Because even at a younger age, I understood the art of moving the crowd and putting on a great show.
Name some of the artist who have inspired or influenced you: I would have to say Bone Thugs n Harmony hands down, they are really one of the main reasons I decided to do music. I remember back then how I felt listening to their music, and one day I was just thinking to myself like, I want to be one of those icons who entertained the people through the sound of music and film. But other than them, I would say Kanye west of course, Jay-Z, Nas, and Twista was big influences in my early career.
How would you describe your style? I would say my style is more of an innovative style of hip hop, just full of fresh new ideas and creative ways of thinking outside the box when it comes to recording music. Or even how a record is mixed and mastered can change the way you feel when you hear it. No different from when you riding inside of a new car , that same fresh and exciting feeling you get is what you get when you really listen to my music , because you can tell I really do it from the heart first , fame and fortune second.
Name some of the major artists you have performed with: I have had the chance to perform with a lot great artist in the game ranging from Freeway, Cory Gunz, Stalley , Dylan Dili , Mickey Factz , Mystikal, Soulja Boy , MGK, just to name a few , and plus a hand full of great indie artist that’s up on the grind . And lots more to come too.
Do you have any major offers on the table? Major Labels, No!! Major Opportunities and Exposure, Yes!! I just been working man, and staying busy. You always got to stay grinding and working hard, and got to be humble at the same damn time; because it might not come when you want it, but when it comes I was told you always have to be ready.
What advice would you offer other aspiring artists? The advice I would give to up and coming artist is that, if this is something you really want to do (music) just make sure you be smart and understand the business part of the music just as much if not always more than making the music. Because you can have the hottest song in the world, but if you don’t know how to market that record business wise then it really don’t mean much at all. So on that note work hard play hard, and always stay fresh and creative.
Any shout outs? Yes, first I would like to shout to my hometown of Chicago , I want to shout out my team , klay dot, chops, suicide, and everybody who rock with me on the daily , my management @blackopxmusic for really believing in me and big shouts out to Urban Magazine for the love . Also follow me on the twitter, Facebook and instagram: @iamchicity.