The Skypp Story & Interview

Indianapolis rapper Skypp has built a reputation as the voice of reason in the streets with his brand of Sophisticated Street Music. Shining a light unto the underground with witty bars of wisdom and cautionary narratives, Skypp's music is a blend of cerebral boom-bap, trap prophecies and braggadocious flows over modern productions. Following a Top 15 charting release on iTunes in2020for his project, The Ghetto Mr. Rogerz, Skypp's latest album drop, King of Indiana, is an empowering collection of storytelling, metaphors and melody. The song “Fix Yo’ Crown" features longtime Kanye West collaborator Rhymefest; whom reached out about doing the track after hearing Skypp's album, U4U.

Finding major notoriety in 2011 with his Skypp Saturday's series on Soundcloud, accumulating more than half a million plays, the King of Indiana would soon find himself rubbing elbows withthe industry's elite. In 2012, the song "Do" would garner the attention of female fans and a local promotional company presenting the opportunity to perform the song in concert, opening for YoGotti. Soon later, Circle City's prodigal emcee was approached about a record dealby fellow Naptown native and entertainment legend, Mike Epps. Flown out to Atlanta for Tupac's Anniversary Party, Skypp met with hip-hop icons Rick Ross, Meek Mill and TuPac's mom, AthenaShakur.

Though, as the label dissolved, it led Skypp to seek new management. Not to be left empty-handed from the experience, he was quickly introduced to Billboard-topping songwriter and manager, Sid"Uncle Jamz" Johnson (Manchild, Babyface, Field Mob, Mariah Carey), to be his next manager.Skypp's myth has continued to grow amidstAmerica's Crossroadsand the surrounding region, performing on stage with the likes of DMX, Toni Braxton, Too $hort, Anthony Hamilton, Floetry,and DJ Quick. In 2017, Skypp joined Babyface on tour for stops in Los Angeles, Philadelphia,Cincinnati, Nashville and his hometown of Indianapolis, fulfilling a childhood dream performingat Banker's Life Field House. Recognized for his contributions in the Indianapolis community, Skypp's face was featured on theside of an IndyGo Metro Bus in 2019 as part of their redline transportation promotion.

A career that has embodied growth, and maturation through the years, Skypp's message ofintrospection, self-awareness and empowerment is a far cry from his idea of rap dreams when hefirst started writing rhymes in 6th grade. Once enamored by the facade and lifestyles of industry rap, the humbleKing of Indiana is looking to make a difference, more than a dollar these days,working in schools and around the community as a living example of his words on wax.

Submit your music for Radio Play!

Interview

1.Where are you from and how would you describe your city?

What's up SoulRiffic. I am from Indianapolis, Indiana and I would describe my city as divided but hopeful. Most communities stay to themselves and that prevents some friction, but I feel that it's time to have those uncomfortable conversations. That's where my recent inspiration stems from.

2.Who has been your greatest support throughout your journey as an artist?

My close friends and my fan base. They cover totally different aspects but neither is more important than the other. My friends help to keep me focused and levelheaded, while my fan base keeps me in business.

3. At what age did you know you wanted to be an artist and how did you get started in the first place?

I started writing in 6th grade but my freshman year is when I knew it was for me. All it took was the confidence to showcase my talents. My soon to be fan base gave me every reason to take it serious.

4.In your opinion who is the most influential and successful artist in your genre and why?

I'd have to say Tupac. He just didn't miss a beat. The definition of versatile. Unique but relatable. Gangster but kind. Man, dude was a gem. There's only a few who were able to match that vibe.

5.So what are your current thoughts on the music industry?

I feel the industry has evolved just like anything else in life. Whether I'm a big part of it or not, I've always learned to adapt rather than complain. I believe there's a great balance of artists in the mainstream and that's always good. I look forward to the next direction of the music industry.

6.How do you separate yourself from other artists?

More than anything, I make sure my sound is unique and incomparable. When you hear Skypp, you know it's Skypp. I'm not to be confused with any other artists. For years I didn't curse in my lyrics. That was another way of me setting myself apart. Uniqueness and experimentation are pretty much my secret weapons.

7. How do you stay motivated and continue your music as an artist?

My fans and my love for music. I enjoy doing this even after 10+ years of nonstop grind. My fans also give me every bit of reason to keep doing. What do I look like quitting when these people look forward to hearing my art? That's a blessing in itself. It's therapeutic and gives me a sense of purpose.

8.What aspect of the music-making process excites you most and what aspect discourages you the most?

Hearing an incredible instrumental is my favorite, haha. I love when my producers play me something amazing. We all know that music starts with the instruments. Writing is another exciting moment, especially when the direction is creative or unique. The only thing I'm ever discouraged by is the struggles of being an independent artist. I'm sure all artists can relate to it. But this grind isn't for the weak. I'm as driven as they come.

9. What was your inspiration behind your album " The Ghetto Mister Rogerz?"

TGMR was a testament to my reputation and personality. I'm from the streets and I'm not ashamed of it. I've had dealings and I've witnessed many things. But through it all, I've always been that voice of reason. My fans, friends and family love me for that. It's kind of like the brand of Tupac. He was not to be messed with, but at the same time, he was everything you wanted to be like. That's because he was thugged out and positive at the same time. That's basically what TGMR stood for.

10.if you can describe your fans in one word what would it be and why?

Loyal. My God, I've done so many risky things and they've stuck around. From switching my sound, to cutting curse words out of my lyrics, etc. It may have taken them some adjusting, but they always stuck around.

11.who would you like to work with in the future?

R.I.P to Nipsey Hussle. Since I can't say him, I'm going to say Janelle Monae and J.Cole. Amongst a few others, those are some of my favorite artists of today.

12. What advice would you give to upcoming artists who are trying to pursue their dreams?

My number one piece of advice is never mix emotions with business. You have to be just as straightforward and stern with people as they are with you. Don't take anything personal. It's almost never personal. Learn how to adapt and succeed in this business!

13. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

In 5 years I'll be happy. No matter life's outcome, I'll be happy. That's always the number one priority. I'm all for affirmations but I'll be the first to admit that I know nothing about tomorrow. All I know is I'm always going to work my a** off and spread love. That's the way for me.

14. What Albums, latest releases or singles are available to your fans and where can they be found?

My new album, KING OF INDIANA, released March 19th. This is a project you absolutely do not want to miss. Visit my site officialskypp.com for all of my social media and music information. Thanks for having me and I look forward to speaking with you guys again!