We recently connected with DREAMBIIG . and have shared our conversation below.

DREAMBIIG, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

This project, DREAMBIIG, has meant so much to us. Deciding to come together and make something fun and inspiring really pushed YawnyBlew and amir. to new places in their creativity and output.

For YawnyBlew, it has involved shedding a mysterious songwriting persona in favor of a more authentic expression through rapping and creative direction. amir., on the other hand, transitioned from being behind the camera to taking the center stage as a producer and artist. When we initially connected through social media, we had no inkling of the extraordinary path that lay ahead for us.

Our initial intention was simple: to make great music and explore the promising friendship that was burgeoning. However, as we delved into collaborative song concepts and ideas, it became evident that we shared common experiences as creatives who had often remained in the shadows. While we took pride in pushing others to reach their full potential in the studio and in front of the camera, we recognized a void within ourselves, where our own creative voices seemed to matter little. DREAMBIIG was born out of a burning desire to prove to ourselves and individuals like us that anyone can shine and tell their own story.

As plus-sized, queer men of color, we consciously crafted a Pop/Rap album brimming with confidence, enriched by the sounds that have always resonated with black queer youth – the fusion of house, hip-hop, pop, and dance. DREAMBIIG serves as an inspiration, a reminder that living in one’s authenticity is not only possible but essential. This project holds profound meaning for all of us, and we’re elated that we joined forces to create it.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

DREAMBIIG is a multimedia project brought to life by the talented New York City creatives, Johny “YawnyBlew” Gonzalez and Tarik “amir.” Carroll. This collaborative endeavor also showcases the remarkable art direction skills of Graham Breitenstein, along with stunning photography by Ryan Hamilton and additional music production and vocal contributions from SADBOYMUSIC, COLDPRESSEDPAPI, Eric Watkins and Mike Brown (The Art of Letting Go Podcast.)

Both YawnyBlew and amir. bring their own rich backgrounds and journeys to the project.

YawnyBlew, a Grammy-nominated vocalist and NME-nominated songwriter, has spent over a decade crafting his name behind the scenes. He’s made notable contributions, including writing for TV shows like Empire and lending his voice to artists like H.E.R., Keiynan Lonsdale and Pyra. However, Yawny’s true passion lies in amplifying the often overlooked stories of the queer community, starting with his own. His debut album, “Midnight in Brooklyn,” released in 2022, reflects his experiences as a closeted young adult navigating New York City. DREAMBIIG offers a new chapter in his career, where he openly embraces his identity, explores love, and celebrates the power of confidence.

amir. has carved a reputation as a respected fashion photographer, with features in esteemed publications like Paper, GQFRANCE, Vogue, and Teen Vogue. His work brought him close to progressive artists like Azealia Banks, CupcakKe, and She’s Ryan, igniting his own desire to step into the spotlight as a fiery frontman. During the pandemic, amir. began experimenting with music production and rapping/singing, leading to the creation of demos that would become the foundation for DREAMBIIG. In the spring of 2023, amir. released his solo EP, ZOOMIN, and now he joins forces with YawnyBlew on a full-length LP, DREAMBIIG.

DREAMBIIG is not just another project; it’s a one-of-a-kind venture born from the shared experiences of plus-sized queer men of color who grew up without seeing themselves represented in the music and videos they loved. This album is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a powerful statement of confidence, self-love, and a celebration of the LGBTQ+ community’s resilience. The album’s singles, like “Can’t Compete,” capture the spirit of the project, blending braggadocio with a deep message of empowerment. DREAMBIIG’s singles were promoted through the engaging podcast series “BIIGGER Than Our Dreams,” where the Yawny & amir. discussed their music and motivations while also interviewing marginalized creatives across the music and fashion industry. Dynamic photoshoots for each song showcase their keen aesthetic eye, expanding the representation of big men in popular culture and high fashion.

DREAMBIIG is a remarkable and unrepeatable collaboration between YawnyBlew and amir., serving as a launching pad for new chapters in both of their careers. This project is the product of their unique journeys, each contributing their own expertise and experiences to create something truly special. DREAMBIIG is an album that stands as a testament to self-acceptance, love, and community, breaking barriers and redefining how queer men of size are seen in today’s popular culture.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

amir.: The most rewarding aspect of being a creative is definitely hearing stories from people on how my work has helped or inspired them. That feeling is something you can’t put a price tag on. I was selected last year for an artist residency at Heron School of Arts and Design and I found out that I was selected for this series because my work was being used as resource materials to treat clients who suffered from eating disorders.

YawnyBlew: The most rewarding aspect of being a creative for me is how it brings me closer to myself. For so long songwriting and music was just work, but in the last year I have been tapping back into the joy of creating and using it as a tool to unpack how I’m feeling, discuss the things I am going through and hopefully help others on their own journeys.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

amir.: I feel that a lot of non creatives may struggle to figure out why i’ve started a career in music in my mid 30’s especially in a industry that is obsessed with youth. The reality is I see my age as an advantage. Im grateful to be stepping into this space with a strong sense of self and to have wisdom to avoid the pitfalls a lot of people experience entering this industry at an impressionable age. Let my story be a testament to that fact that it’s never too late to pursuit your dreams. Do it, Do it Scared, Do it afraid and honor yourself and your vision at all times.

YawnyBlew: I feel like sometimes people underestimate the amount of work that goes into creating and releasing an album. I would love for more artist to understand that if you are indie and releasing music alone, than you are in charge of everything, especially the post release. That is where the hard work comes in and you have to be dedicated to getting your project to listeners. It is not the most fun work, but there are ways to be creative with it. Having a plan is the most important thing, and sticking to it. Doing outreach, cold emailing, market research. I have grown to love it and am always open to helping new artists with this process.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.tarikcarrollcreative.com www.yawnyblew.com
• Instagram: @amir.stay.fly @yawnyblew
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YawnyBlew
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johngonzalez411/
• Twitter: @amirstayfly @yawnyblew

Image Credits
All Photos by Ryan C. Hamilton