We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Ty Sensei. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Dorian below.
Ty Sensei, 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?
Music has always been a central part of my life, almost like a family member that’s always been there. Growing up with a mother who sang in the church choir, I was immersed in melodies and harmonies from a very young age. It wasn’t just about being around music; it was about being part of it. Learning to play the drums as a child wasn’t just a hobby, it was the beginning of a lifelong passion. My family has a rich musical heritage, with several members being accomplished musicians. Seeing their dedication and success made me believe in the possibility of a career in music for myself. It was a realization that talent runs in our veins, and with hard work, I could turn my passion into a profession.
The turning point for me was a deeply personal one. The loss of my close friend, Charles Blair, was a profound moment that reshaped my perspective on life and music. In his memory, my friends and I formed CBx, a symbol of our bond and a tribute to his influence on our lives. As I move forward in my career and drop those initials from my artist name, the essence of CBx will remain with me. It’s more than just initials; it’s a reminder of where I started and why I continue on this path. Charles’s spirit is an integral part of my music and always will be. It’s not about leaving something behind; it’s about carrying a piece of the past into the future, honoring a legacy that has given my music depth and purpose.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
My journey into music began in the heart of 2019, surrounded by the unwavering support of my closest friends, Thomas Gonqoui and Marcus Wyckoff. We shared a collective moment of clarity, realizing that the time to honor our friend Charles Blair (CJ’s ) memory was upon us. That year marked the genesis of my exploration into the vast world of music, seeking a unique voice that resonated with my vision. Initially, SoundCloud served as the canvas for my early works, allowing me to refine my craft and discover my niche. As CBx Sensei, I ventured onto various streaming platforms, each release drawing me closer to an audience that would soon become a community of loyal supporters. It’s a surreal experience to witness ideas that once lived solely in my head now thriving in the hearts of listeners worldwide.
E Z R A, my alter ego, embodies the essence of my music uplifting, faith-driven, and a testament to the power of positivity. It’s a tribute to my mother’s legacy and a beacon for others, sowing seeds of hope and inspiration through every note and lyric.
As I stand at the precipice of a new era, I say farewell to CBx Sensei, embracing the evolution of my artistry as Ty Sensei. It’s a bittersweet transition, but one that heralds the promise of growth and the excitement of uncharted creative territories. The end of one chapter is not the conclusion of the story it’s the prologue to a future rich with potential and greatness.
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
Life, much like music, is composed of moments that call for improvisation and change. One such pivotal moment in my journey was the decision to relocate from Malta to Minneapolis, Minnesota. It was a time filled with challenges, where the comfortable choice would have been to remain static. However, I chose to embrace the uncertainty, to bet on myself and my music. This move wasn’t just a change of scenery; it was a strategic play to align with my right-hand man and leverage his connections in the industry. It’s about building a solid foundation and a team that shares a unified vision for success. We’re orchestrating our efforts to amplify our reach and impact in the music scene.
The transition has been a testament to resilience and the power of taking calculated risks. It’s a reminder that sometimes, to find your rhythm, you have to be willing to change the beat. We’re not just hoping to make something shake; we’re working tirelessly to ensure it does.
Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
Reflecting on the early stages of my career, I recognize the significance of strategic audience growth and engagement. Had I known the profound impact that targeted advertising through platforms like Google and Meta could have, I would have embraced these tools to expand my reach and cultivate a robust fan base from the outset. Starting as a passion project, the business aspect of music, including market research and audience development, wasn’t my initial focus. However, understanding the power of these resources would have been invaluable in accelerating my growth.
Additionally, investing in equipment like the Akai MPK Mini at the beginning would have been a game-changer. It’s not just about having the right tools; it’s about the empowerment they provide. Learning to craft my own beats then would have not only honed my technical skills but also allowed me to refine my unique sound more rapidly.
In hindsight, these resources represent more than just missed opportunities; they symbolize the lessons learned and the knowledge gained that continue to shape my journey in the music industry
Contact Info:
- Website: https://g.co/kgs/7G2Lvhd
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ty_sensei?igsh=N2Vpb3VsaHR1djdl&utm_source=qr
- Other: E Z R A links https://youtube.com/@1ezraaa?si=oq-gd1St0elDXR-1 https://linktr.ee/1ezraaa?fbclid=PAAaYgmOT3IhX0Gdj6XkcVFE11qMN_GREfFnSW7h_esEka4FL_ObC9GrM4ahM_aem_AainiiGlBBuuKdP_Zyc1mKXIuEap6siT_am5d1FZfI0x6jZHs3HVggdWXT5wZjT_02k
Image Credits
Marcus Wyckoff Thomas Gonquoi These are the two i mentioned who i started CBx with.