Trav Torch’s approach to music is reminiscent of the best in R&B, before the genre became so suffused with hip hop that little differed between the two. He’s definitely someone to watch for in 2020.
When did you begin pursuing a career in music professionally?
I started writing and recording rap music back in 2001 when I was in high school. I recorded my first R&B album, mostly as an experiment, in 2004. I was pretty consistent until around about 2005 when I took some time off to focus on college. That was also around the time I started experimenting more with fully transitioning to R&B. In 2015, the transition was fully completed and I released my first commercial single, “Love You Down.”
Name some of the artist who have inspired or influenced you?
I was a hardcore 2pac fan when I first got into rap music in the 90’s. He influenced me a ton in a lot of my rap songs. But the first artist I was ever a fan of was Michael Jackson – he was basically the only artist I listened to as a child. I’ve also been a big fan of artists like Ginuwine, R. Kelly (musically only lol), Joe, Avant, Trey Songz, Chris Brown, and some of the classic R&B groups like 112, Dru Hill, Silk, and Jagged Edge.
How would you describe your style?
I don’t like to put myself in a box but generally speaking, I like to channel the vibe of classic 90’s R&B and blend it with the sound of today. I’m extremely versatile. On my Bachelor Life album, I have songs like “Drake Sh!t,” “Love You Down,” and “10 to 10,” which have an old school vibe and other songs such as “Red Bull and Hennessy” and “Sex Tape” which have a more contemporary ‘rap-sing’ type of vibe. I also consider myself to be very lyrical, which I attribute to me starting out as a rapper.
What separates you from other artists?
What separates me from most other artists is that I’m completely hands on with my music both creatively and from a business aspect. I choose the instrumentals, write and arrange the songs, and record and mix them myself in my home studio. I’m also the owner of my own record label, Cologne & Cognac Entertainment, so I handle all the “label” duties as well including executive production, arranging marketing, creating and maintaining my artist and label websites, registering copyrights, etc – kind of overwhelming at times but I’ve found that no one is going to work harder for you than you.
Name some of the major artists you have performed with?
I haven’t performed with any major artists yet – but I feel like I’m close to getting to that next level. I just have to keep pushing. I’d be appreciative to share the stage with any major artist, especially those I mentioned before as influences.
Do you have any major offers on the table?
No, and I’m fully embracing the indie grind. I have gained so much knowledge and experience in the process.
