I started writing raps when I was 12 or 13 years old, and now, at 39, it's still something I do to this day. I don't recall exactly how or why I started, but I remember my older sister got me a toy microphone and amplifier, which inspired me to make music. Maybe she got it for me because I already had an interest.
Early on, my influences were old-school hip-hop artists like Run-DMC and the Beastie Boys. I began by imitating their rap routines, swapping their names for mine. Soon, I started writing my own lyrics, though I didn't have access to beats or instruments, so it was mostly just bad poetry. My earlier lyrics often revolved around spelling out my rap name in various rhymes, like the pioneers of hip-hop used to do. I soon discovered that writing was a great way to express all my adolescent angst.
By the time I got to high school, a close friend introduced me to acts like the Wu-Tang Clan and a burgeoning underground hip-hop scene, many of which were local. I was blown away by the intricate and complex rhyme schemes that starkly contrasted with the simple ABC rhymes I was used to. As I dove deeper into the underground hip-hop scene, my taste became more refined and eclectic. Discovering artists like Atmosphere, who rapped about heartbreak, was particularly relatable as a teenager. Additionally, artists like Aesop Rock introduced me to dense, abstract rhyme schemes that required careful thought and interpretation.
These artists made me a more well-rounded person. They inspired me to read the dictionary and study philosophy, science, and religion so I could have cool words in my repertoire. It's also made me listen to all kinds of different music as I search for obscure samples to make beats with. As a young man, I dreamt of making music for a living, but it always felt too risky to pursue such a path when I needed financial security. I found other work that I am passionate about, which pays the bills, and my dream career has become a hobby. However, I'm proud that I'm still passionate about making music after all these years. Even if I don't have a large fan base, I create music for myself.
When I'm not working or spending time with my wife and son, I dedicate my time to making beats, writing, and booking studio time to create new songs that I upload to streaming platforms. https://linktr.ee/phantomstranger/ Even though some may see me as an "old, lame white guy," I believe the lamest thing I could do is stop doing what I love based on other people's opinions.
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