We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Bobby Cuff. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Bobby below.

Bobby, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

Ever since I was 5 or 6 years old I’ve been a music lover. I was addicted to the radio, buying records, and dancing in the clubs. Although, I loved music, I was not moved to play and instrument or sing until I was 16 years old. On my 16th birthday I went to a club called The Zoo which was in Mac Arthur Park area, northeast of downtown Los Angeles, and there was a band playing called Wall & Bridges. The band had a Hendrix-like sound. The singer had a fuzzy afro, and the guitar player, Dan West, played a white Fender Stratocaster painted very pscychedelic. I remember him tuning his guitar with a wah-wah pedal, and playing some amazing sounds. From that night, I was completely obsessed with learning how to play the guitar just like Dan West. From that day forward, I knew that music was my passion, and the only thing to bring me joy. Eventually, I was able to “borrow” a guitar from my friend’s father. I promised that I would return it as soon as I had figured out how to play it. That would take me on a journey for the rest of my life.

Bobby, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I started playing singing and playing guitar around 16 years old, starting a few bands, and producing music along the way. I formed Grievous Angels in the beginning of the 2000s along with my label, Blacksheep Music Productions. I enjoy playing many different styles of music, so I began putting together a few different bands to explore and expand my musical terrain. The last few years, I have produced & released three records by band, Grievous Angels, as well as, handful of other releases and productions associated either with me or my label. I also produce videos for the songs I release, as well as, performing shows throughout the year. I would describe my influences as: Jimi Hendrix meets Bob Marley, with a touch of The Wipers, and Neil Young. I’m also influenced by Hendrix, Zappa and George Clinton in my approach to producing and releasing music. My label, Blacksheep Music Productions, serves as a platform to release music in all its shapes and forms. Each group explores different aspects of my musical tastes, and interests, as well as, the amazing musicians that perform with me. While most labels and artists are preoccupied with staying current with trends, reproducing a formulaic approach to music. Blacksheep Music Productions is dedicated to creating, producing, and releasing original music for the modern era, and beyond.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

-There should be more funding of creative art at local, state and federal levels. -Local businesses and local government should encourage, and solicit live performances throughout our city’s open spaces.
-There should be more equity when it comes to supporting and paying artists for their work (i.e. performances).
-Everyone should be compensated for their work with money or something comparable.
-Incorporate music and art in school from kindergarten through to high school with an emphasis on performance and expression.
-Increase the streaming publishing royalty rate for all artists.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

Being an artist that creates original work, but also works in a non-artistic job, it is extremely satisfying to be able to conceive, build/record, and execute my ideas and passions. The idea that I have been able to fund my own projects, and expand my skill set and vision which has allowing me to gain experience and growth when working on projects that are funded or paid for by outside sources is incredibly rewarding.

Contact Info:

• Website: blacksheepmusic.org
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grievousangels/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100056338975935
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/
• Other: https://grievousangels1.bandcamp.com/ https://soundcloud.com/bobby-cuff https://soundcloud.com/bobby-cuff/sets https://open.spotify.com/user/1277689906?flow_ctx=3a189c19-44c7-4b50-afae-610c0833f4bb%3A1694424693 https://open.spotify.com/artist/2JWGeKAujCUqljHmzT2T32

Image Credits
Nancy Huizar Shana Ayame Karlee Cuff R.L. Cuff