What’s your stage name and where are you from?

My name is Emilio Bucks and I’m from Chicago, IL

What’s the story behind your stage name?

Well, my government name is Emilio. I added the ‘Bucks’ because I have a propensity to buck trends and sometimes authority.

Describe your musical journey in three sentences.

I am the son and nephew of musicians so I was literally born into it. Growing up in the 80’s put me right in the middle of the burgeoning Hip Hop culture where I gravitated towards all the elements, mainly graffiti and breaking, then eventually DJing and emceeing. I later studied sound engineering where I learned to really make records.

Share an interesting experience you had while creating your latest track.

I usually take a long time writing, really trying to come with the right concept and words. Sometimes I take TOO long lol. For my latest single, Dual Threat, I wrote in about 30 mins. Something about the beat made everything poor out of me at a much faster rate than I’m used to.

What message do you want to convey through your music?

Just like when I DJ, I like to take people on a trip somewhere other than what life may be presenting at any given moment. I want to be relatable to people and at least be entertaining to those I may not have anything in common with. Music is a connector of people from all walks of life. I want my music to connect.

Tell us about a challenge you faced during production and how you overcame it.

There’s always the challenge of getting what’s in my head down to tape(or DAW). However, my real challenges come from outside the music. Balancing being a husband and a father while still creating and FINISHING a project can be tough. Staying present through meditation helps in keeping my focus and motivation.

If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be and why?

Common. He’s been my favorite MC since ’92.

Where do you see your music taking you in the next year?

Into the ears, hearts, and minds of the people.

What’s the next big step for you as an artist?

Growing my fanbase and taking part in a tour this summer.

Where can we hear/watch your most recent work?

My catalog is available at emiliobuckspresents.bandcamp.com/ as well as on all major digital streaming platforms. My visuals can be seen on my YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvjh4SgJcRNsIDWNkcDYMnA