We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Joseph Ceja a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Joseph , appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.

It’s all in or nothing for me! In my life I’ve risked it all, put everything on the line for my craft. It’s been a rollercoaster for sure! But I wouldnt trade being a musician for anything! Music is my life and pursuing my dreams no matter the cost is key to my success.

Joseph , 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?

It all began with a deep connection to poetry followed by a strong interest in art. At a young age, I found myself partaking in diverse poetry and art exhibitions in Northeast Ohio. My artistic curiosity further steered me towards music, leading to me playing several instruments, notably drums and cello during my school years.

A significant shift in my journey took place in 2012 when I relocated to Virginia. There, I met friends that were musicians and played in battle of the bands and several live events. It was through this camaraderie that I was baptized into live-performance culture while also awakening to the possibility of recording music within the confines of my home.

My initial drop into the music scene saw me taking on the stage name Apollo13 or A13. It fostered a strong local presence, fueled by my many efforts to promote my music through every avenue available, including sharing my music links with restaurant patrons from my days as a cook and waiter.

My steady rise in the local music scene was not without its obstacles. The unanticipated hurdle of stage fright often deterred me from accepting exciting show opportunities. In a quest to overcome this part of myself, I sought solace and strength in MMA and Jiujitsu at Hooligans Boxing and MMA. These physical ventures slowly tamed my anxieties and helped me work through my PTSD I was grappling with, ultimately helping me rediscover my sense of self.

With newfound clarity and personal maturity stemming from starting a family, my affinity for music found a renewed sound. I witnessed my life falling back into a familiar rhythm of melodies, and beat drops all but laying the artistic foundation for the emergence of a new artist – NSLXO with a fresh sound, in the year 2022.

Despite the challenges that come with recreating myself musically, my spirit remains undiminished, much like the patience required for all worthwhile endeavors. My sights are set on a promising future, keen on leaving a memorable imprint on countless souls through my music and its underlying message.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

I grew up in a abusive broken home and my goal has always been to inspire the next generation of broken youth to chase there dreams love who they are embrace there flaws as that’s what makes each individual unique. And also want to be the example of someone who has come from a rough life and constant setbacks but through my trials and tribulations I never gave up on my dreams and have found success and happiness. My end goal is to open a youth music center for troubled youth as a safe place and positive outlet to grow there music careers and have the proper equipment and mentors there to guide them on there musical journey’s.

How did you build your audience on social media?

It took me 6 years to build a true fan base lots of trial and errors. In a world that’s constantly evolving staying hip to what’s trending and also staying true to yourself is key. Consistency is a major factor in building a fan base along with interacting with your fans as well. I would definitely recommend building a social presence on all social media’s and just post quality content daily and trying to include your fans and remember to stay humble and reach out from time to time. Your fans make you and support you show them love too.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: www.instagram.com/nslxomusic/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/NSLXO
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/nslxomusic
• Youtube: www.youtube.com/@NSLXOMUSIC
• Spotify: @NSLXO

Image Credits
Joseph Ceja