We recently connected with Yung Blax and have shared our conversation below.
Yung , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?
When I came home from prison I didn’t know what to expect as far as continuing to pursue my music career. Before I went to prison we were still passing out CD’s, putting boots on the ground to promote and actually having interactions with people to promote yourself. There was No IG, no TikTok, no Spotify or a number of relevant DSP’s or social media bases. I had to learn how to navigate and utilize social media as a platform to put myself out there in front of people as well as learn to invest into myself in order to maximize my chances of standing out from the saturated music industry. Back then artists were pursuing music in hopes of getting a record deal and have someone invest into them, where as now days it’s more of artists investing into themselves and focusing on being independent. So my first time really and actually knowing i needed to pursue my music professionally and how to do so, is when I came home from prison, and I’ve been learning on the go every since
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.
Catchy hooks flow through a bumping beat, as hip-hop artist, Yung Blax, weaves a torrent of rhythmic vocals. His original melodies offer a refreshing shift from the mainstream, with lyrical content that explores a variety of subject matter. Yung Blax draws inspiration from real life, creating songs that are honest and relatable. Recently released from prison after serving seven years, he is on a new path to motivate others through his music, inspiring audiences with the belief that anyone can change their lives. Yung Blax is breaking generational cycles and helping write a different narrative for the people by promoting non-violent messages.
Originating from the vibrant city of Pasadena, Texas, just southeast of Houston, Yung Blax is a multifaceted artist delivering a message of empowerment and resilience. Raised by a single mother with two other siblings, in his youth, Yung Blax found solace in the raw storytelling of iconic figures like 2Pac, DMX, Eminem, and other greats. Inspired to paint vivid pictures with his words, at the young age of 10, Yung Blax penned his first songs. Shortly after, he began engaging in freestyle battles, honing his craft with each passing year. By the time he was a teenager, Yung Blax was already recording his work and building a local fanbase. Despite facing setbacks in adulthood, including a period of incarceration, Yung Blax emerged with a renewed sense of purpose, determined to use his music as a platform for change. Formerly known by the moniker ODHD, Yung Blax underwent a metamorphosis, embracing his rich heritage and rebranding to reflect his Black and Mexican roots.
Yung Blax’s music resonates with listeners across genres, incorporating elements of country, R&B, and reggaeton into his signature style. His career highlights include opening for big-name Houston artists, participating in events like South by Southwest, and meeting independent artist, LARussell at the “It’s Your Time Music & Business Conference” in Charlotte, NC. A highly engaging performer, Yung Blax wields a powerful stage presence. His latest release, “Chosen,” is a testament to his resilience and growth in the industry, offering a glimpse into his rise from obscurity to recognition. With a focus on authenticity and self-expression, Yung Blax stays true to himself, avoiding trends in favor of crafting music that speaks to his values. Through his entertainment label, “Money, Music, and Dreams,” he seeks to not only elevate his own career but, to support aspiring artists and give back to his community.
Beyond the accolades and performances, Yung Blax remains grounded in his mission to inspire and uplift others. As he continues to evolve, Yung Blax’s music is reminding listeners that no matter the obstacles, they have the strength to overcome them.
How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?
I honestly believe that society/fans/music consumers could support creatives more effectively my buying the art directly from the artists. What I mean by that is that although it’s much appreciated and great that they are willing to stream your music on DSP’s, the current DSP’s pay little to no money out to artists while pocketing all the money from subscription holders. Versus if a supporter were to purchase the music directly from the artists or even through platforms such as EVEN, the artists benefits more financially from that transaction. And not just financially, but also personally because on platforms such as EVEN, when a supporter makes a purchase, you get their email address so that you can keep in contact with them, send them special invites and discounts and much more. So that gives artists and fans the opportunity to connect.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
For me the most rewarding part of being a creative is the fact that I push a different narrative in my music that can potentially help someone change their life and how they view their past or current situations. And for me to hear and be told by people that I’m an inspiration to them is an amazing feeling. A lot of people walk around hopeless and lost and if I can be somewhat of a light through my music then that’s all I can ask for
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @yungblaxmmd
- Facebook: Yung Blax
- Twitter: Yung Blax
- Youtube: Prison Reform Tv & Yungblaxmmd
- Other: https://www.even.biz/artists/yung-blax
https://open.spotify.com/artist/3Iz15r6KI3DrsQQLXmBBx8?si=PWDFexpcRPW-BCAnMbTUWQ
Image Credits
Photos By Neal