Commitment. Defined by ‘the state or quality of being dedicated to a cause’. This is the word that Portland Rapper, Drex Porter aka Samuel Caramelli, lives by. You don’t believe me? He has it tattooed on his arm.

Drex Porter, formerly named Caramello, began writing raps during his sophomore year of high school just to pick up another hobby. He needed something to do because basketball was not an option anymore. In the beginning, Drex wrote raps because he knew he could do it better than those amateur kids on the internet could. During our interview, Drex told me something that shows me this is more than just a hobby for him, “At first I was horrible, but I didn’t stop”.

One thing that Drex has always longed for is support. When he first decided to make music, people would make fun of him for it because he was still a novice rapper. However, as he and his music both progressed, it became “cool” to like Drex Porter. While these bandwagon fans may be providing support, Drex still only has a few friends who are, and have been, true supporters since the start.

Drex wants his listeners to know that he appreciates the support more than anything, and that he supports them too. Regarding Soundcloud, “likes” are much appreciated, but “reposts” and “shares” are what really help Drex gain more popularity.

What Drex Porter wants to accomplish with his rap career is to essentially get everything he has ever wanted. Drex wants the dream job and dream salary. He wants to inspire his fans. He wants people to look up to him. He wants it all.

Since Drex is still under the age of 21, it is hard for him to find venues for concerts. However, Drex is present on all social media platforms, including Instagram (@drexportermusic), Twitter (@drexporter), Snapchat (@caramellopdx), Facebook (@Drex Porter), and of course Soundcloud (soundcloud.com/drexporter).

If anyone needs support out there in the music industry, it is Drex Porter. I say this because he is going to be in it for the long run. He is dedicated to a cause. He is committed.