Comparisons.....we are all subject to them, whether it be artistic ability, athletic prowess or anything else it’ something that can't be avoided. When that comparison is made between an arising artist and one that is legendary, it has the ability of being both a blessing and a curse. On the one hand it will garner the new artist a lot of attention, but at the same time subject them to a lot of scrutiny. How an artist fares in that situation: will depend on them maintaining their humility and of course their talent and output.
Our guest today Tayo is dealing with that situation currently. Read below as we get a little more familiar with him and his background.
EHMP: What made you want to be an artist?
Tayo: When I was like 8 I got a karaoke machine and always liked to put on a show. Music is my passion because doing it makes me feel good
EHMP: Who did you listen to growing up and did they influence your style?
Tayo: At first all I listened to was my older brother. He would come home with songs he made and that inspired me to do the same. But I listened to all kinds of music. I believe that's what gives me an edge and makes me a versatile as an artist.
EHMP: You have been compared to the great Big Pun, how does that affect you and how do you handle it?
Tayo: That's crazy. Actually it's very flattering because Pun was incredible. But I don't think my style is anything like Pun aside from the fact that we're Puerto Rican and we rap. I'm Tayo and while I am flattered I'd want to be known as my own artist.
EHMP: Do you battle?
Tayo: I have battled at times but it's not what I choose to put my energy into. I rather make music. I enjoy taking what I'm thinking and feeling and turning that into something people can listen to and relate to
EHMP: Do you produce your own tracks?
Tayo: I've dabbled a bit I think it's good to know as much as you can when it comes to doing what you do. And so I am familiar with many aspects of producing and engineering but that's a craft on it own and so I leave it to those guys.
EHMP: What makes you different from other artists, how do you stand out?
Tayo: I bring a different sound, a different swag; I am everything the industry needs. “I’m nice, I’m fresh, I’m blessed and I’m Puerto Rican” as said in my song haymaker. But one major characteristic Tayo has is he’s original. In my opinion the more original you’re, the more someone may be able to relate to what you’re saying. And at the end of the day it’s all about the people, the fans, if there not feeling you or they can’t relate to what your saying, then your duty as an artist, an entertainer, is pointless.
EHMP: What do you think of the current state of music?
Tayo: Music was at a point of downfall. Artist were falling off, it almost felt like music would never be the same again. But I can say music has definitely made a turn for the better these last 5 years. The only thing is a lot of artists are lacking that originality, therefore as a listener I find it difficult to relate to what he/she is saying. Music needs realism, it needs honesty, it needs to be created in such a way that anyone from any race or culture may be able to relate to it. That’s just how I see it.
EHMP: Where would you like to be in 5 years?
Tayo: World Tours, Collaborating with hip-hop’s most prestigious artists. I would like to expand my specialties and start acting as well. I would also like to open my own business to help amateur artists promote themselves correctly. I would like to buy my mama a new house and be a major iconic figure when people think of hip-hop.
EHMP: any recent or upcoming projects?
Tayo: I’m working on a soundtrack for a short film being made for a phenomenal book titled “Rise to Grace – A Genuine Street Story” written by Angel Huertas. The book just hit Barnes and Noble a few months ago and it’s gotten great reviews since then. I’m also working on my latest mixtape/album titled “Boats” which stands for “Based on a True Story”. Basically the entire CD is designed to speak about life situations I’ve encountered or I've witnessed. Any listener would be able to connect to at least one song or more on the CD, just because the various topics it covers are universal situations anybody may go through. Whether its divorce, corrupt friendships, love, relationships, etc. whatever it is, this piece of art covers it all.
EHMP: How can people reach you to hear your music to collaborate?
Tayo: You can search me on face book and twitter – “TayoStudioGeek”. You may also email me at tayostudiogeek@gmail.com
EHMP: Any last words or shout outs?
Tayo: First off shouts to my mother and father for always motivating me. They took me from Brooklyn to Long Island for a better life and lord knows where I’d be today if that move wasn’t possible. Shouts to my brother for being my greatest inspiration. Shouts to my sister for always being there for me, even if the whole world is against me, at least I know you’d still be here for me baby. Shouts to all my friends and fans for keeping my head on a swivel, I swear if I didn’t have you guys life wouldn’t seem so clear right now. Be original & Stay true to yourself, Music needs THIS!
Peace & Love,
Tayo
Written by DJ SINCERE
COURTESY OF THE ELEGANT HOODNESS MUSICAL PROGRAM 2012
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