Artist Introduction
What’s your stage name and where are you from?
Paradox Denver, CO (USA)
What’s the story behind your stage name?
The term Paradox means an apparent contradiction, and when I started rhyming, I didn’t really fit the typical mold of a “rapper.” As I’ve been doing this for almost 20 years, it’s also come to reflect a counter-cultural way of being that challenges the destructive mantras of society which often go unquestioned, like the idea that more money equals more happiness.
Describe your musical journey in three sentences.
Trying to write things that matter. Always feeling like I could make something better. Remaining unconcerned about traditional metrics of musical “success.”
Fan Engagement
Share an interesting experience you had while creating your latest track.
My most recent track, “Jot,” was a lot of fun. I was blessed to have the homie Randy Mason jump on it with me, but wanted something that didn’t follow the traditional verse, hook, verse, hook pattern. To that end, I moved some things around in the jazzy beat by Leo Low Pass, got some distorted cuts to act as a bridge, and sequenced Randy and I trading 8-bar chunks.
What message do you want to convey through your music?
A hope that helps listeners feel like there’s more than what our culture tells us will bring satisfaction, but often leaves us feeling even emptier.
Behind the Music
Tell us about a challenge you faced during production and how you overcame it.
I’ve been incredibly fortunate to work with producers who are also really solid people my entire “career,” so there have been relatively few bumps along the road on that front.
If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be and why?
My favorite artist is Joni Mitchell, but I’m not sure what a collaboration between the two of us would look like.
Future Aspirations
Where do you see your music taking you in the next year?
I’m a full-time high school teacher, so fortunately I can make the music I want at the pace I’m able. I’ve got a few releases lined up for the next year, though.
What’s the next big step for you as an artist?
Just staying true to making music that reflect my actual reality as a person.
Recent Work & Contact Info
Where can we hear/watch your most recent work?
What is the best way to contact you if fans want to give feedback or if other artists/producers want to collaborate?
