New York native, Flex, is an upcoming artist who is driven to make his mark in the music industry. Starting from the young age, Flex was engulfed with music and influenced by his parents who both loved playing old tunes and 90's hits throughout his household. This helped to sculpt Flex into the musically diverse and adept artist he is today. He also shares a common dilemma that many artist face where he is trying to balance music, life and school simultaneously but pushes to show that it all can be done if you just put your mind to it. Flex is definitely someone who you'll be hearing more about in the near future so stay tuned to his upcoming projects and follow his journey to success with his music endeavors.
How did you get into making music?
I started making music when I was about sixteen years old, it was basically something that I just picked up. My brother used to record his friends when I was young so watching him do that got me into it as well. I lived in a family where my mom and dad loved playing music so it was always around me growing up.
How do you balance being an artist and a student simultaneously?
It's definitely pretty tricky, starting off that was my hardest patch, finding a balance with the two. I needed to figure out how I can focus on my school work and when can I record new music as well and I always felt like music interfered with my schoolwork because my true passion is music. I'm in school because I know I need this security/safety net and I do want to educate myself more in the classes I'm taking and stuff like that but I have a drive and a passion far beyond school.
Who are some of your inspirations when it comes to music?
I've been inspired by some of the greats who range from different genres such as Jazz, Hip-Hop, R&B, Soft Rock and etc. But growing up my dad used to always play Al Jarreau, Luther Vandross, George Benson, Michael Jackson and so many others so I kind of just always had an ear for that style of pop but hip-hopish type of music. Current day artist that really do inspire me would definitely be Kanye West, I feel like he transmit a lot of the music and the style that's being played today. I got a lot of inspiration from Usher, Neyo, like I'm a big R&B dude, so I really like those guys. Drake of course is another major inspiration for me along with Ryan Leslie and that's pretty much it for now.
Do you plan on staying an independent artist or are you looking to get signed by a label?
As of right now I want to stay an independent artist because I like the struggle that the independent artist has, in a sense that you have to get your own plays and nothing is handed to you so I really like that hustle. Even though it's difficult at times, I wouldn't mind signing a distribution deal with a label but for the most part I would want to just be independent.
What skills and attributes are most important for being successful?
The number one thing would definitely be work ethic, that overpowers the talent a person has and everything! Being extremely focused and hustling to be the best at your craft is what elevates a person to get to their goals. Having a strong passion is another amazing attribute someone can have because I feel that if someone has a passion for something they can pour all of that energy into everything they do.
How do you respond to the back-up plan questions?
Even if I'm not directly in music as an artist I still want to play a major role. Like I said before, I feel like I have a ear for music so taking on an A&R role, or bringing together different talents to create a song would be something dope that I can do. I know that my passion is music so whatever it is for me to get into the business would be great for me. Although, I would love to be THE artist because I know that that would be my opportunity to get my foot in the door and will ultimately open new doors for me to later become a music executive and etc.
What new projects are you working on as of now?
I started something called "Flex Fridays" where I release a track every Friday. This was a great way for me to show people where I'm at with my music and also a great way for me to market myself. Maintaining the consistency was key so for a whole month I was very heavy on social media and posted a lot to keep my content updated and to keep people engaged. The Flex Friday's was solely thought of to help gain momentum for my new project that will be coming out in May so that build-up was very important for my next steps.
When you heard that your song 'Slow Down' was being played in the strip club what was your reaction?
It was a dope experience, I didn't get a chance to meet the DJ who played my song but hearing my song at the strip club and seeing the dancers vibe to it was pretty cool.
What's some advice that you would give to other fellow upcoming artist?
Definitely take on all opportunities that are beneficial to you and never say no unless it's something that you truly don't feel comfortable with. Don't give up, and know what you're making music for and your core reason behind it
Twitter: @SayFlex
Instagram: @SayFlex
SoundCloud: Flex Music
