What’s your stage name and where are you from?
I go by the name FOCUS, and I’m coming from Jersey City, New Jersey. Jersey City stand up! We outside trying to make moves with a purpose.
What’s the story behind your stage name?
My mantra in life is to maintain focus, and you will not only achieve your goals but exceed your own expectations by keeping the focus on trying to better yourself. I also tattooed FOCUS on my arm to not only remind me but, since my right arm is on the side of my heart, it serves as a permanent affirmation.
Describe your musical journey in three sentences.
I have been into hip-hop music since age 6, trying to make my own rhymes and hooks, which eventually turned into songs. Growing up, I went from being in a singing group to being in a rap duo, and all that taught me how to write better music and still have a voice among other talents. Now, as a solo artist, I can fully show my vision and aim to make a difference with my music and my voice.
Share an interesting experience you had while creating your latest track.
While recording the hook for “Higher Ground,” I explored a softer tone in my voice that’s more laid back. I had to show restraint during this process because I’m so used to making my voice more animated with energy and dynamics, but I wanted this to sound more chill and moody. To create the choir-like sound, I stacked the vocals and added reverb.
What message do you want to convey through your music?
I want people to want to do better in life and get motivated when hearing my music. My ultimate goal is to transcend time and make music that is timeless. I also hope certain tracks help listeners get through tough times and move forward. I am making music with a purpose—you feel me?
Tell us about a challenge you faced during production and how you overcame it.
In the studio, it was challenging to complete the song because of how personal it is to me. The last 8 bars weren’t written due to writer’s block, and I was nervous about mentioning my deceased father in the track for the first time. Hazz, the studio engineer, left the studio twice to give me time to gather my thoughts and told me I had to finish the song that night since I had a plane to catch the next day. I dug deep, stayed true to my experience, and let the words come out naturally, then spit it in the mic and let it ride.
If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be and why?
Kendrick Lamar is an artist I highly look up to because he stays true to his conscious rap style while making relatable songs with a touch of spirituality. He’s an absolute lyrical beast with dynamic flows and creative ways of using his voice. I feel like being in his presence would help me elevate my approach, dig deeper into metaphors, and broaden my horizons to create classics that stand the test of time.
Where do you see your music taking you in the next year?
I want to expand my creativity in song concepts and create visually dynamic music videos. Making music with a purpose is my FOCUS, and I’m on it.
What’s the next big step for you as an artist?
I aim to get more creative with how I use my voice for intricate tracks, like stacking vocals and using harmonies to create diverse vocal sounds. I also want to perform on bigger stages with larger crowds. I’ve done several open mics and showcases at clubs, but I aim to touch base with outdoor, big-stage festivals.
Are there any other promotional opportunities you’re looking for to boost your visibility?
Is there a way to submit my music videos to bigger platforms for streaming or networks?
Where can we hear/watch your most recent work?
You can check out my music videos on YouTube: FOCUSMusicVEVO
Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer: Higher Ground
My IG: focus_music_forever
What is the best way to contact you if fans want to give feedback or if other artists/producers want to collaborate?
DM me on Instagram: focus_music_forever
