What’s your stage name and where are you from?
My stage name is Soolie, and I’m from Cleveland, Ohio, currently residing in the Bay Area.
What’s the story behind your stage name?
My real name is pronounced Rasool. Coming up, we were influenced by Midwest mob culture, so I took on the mantra of “Korlion,” like Don Corleone. I also played football, and I had an Italian position coach, Coach Davito, who called me Soolie for short. And thus, Soolie Korlion was born.
Describe your musical journey in three sentences.
What was once a cultural bonding method and tool of self-expression has manifested into a blessing. I’ve been gifted with the way I piece words together—a real modern-day Magellan. Never imagined article publications and all types of notoriety for the rhymes I create; I really feel like I’m God’s favorite.
Share an interesting experience you had while creating your latest track.
My rent was late, money was slow, and I didn’t know how I was going to make it happen. I picked up a pen, started writing, and let the Most High take control. Simultaneously, I was doing a Q&A and listening to a production from RobLo—at the worst, my next project will be destined for gold, like a waffle, words for the people to feed on!
What message do you want to convey through your music?
God is real, and all humanity has a purpose worthy of being carried out. Regardless of your disposition in life, you write your story as brilliantly as you see fit, and this is the power bestowed on every living individual via the Most High.
Tell us about a challenge you faced during production and how you overcame it.
Finding balance between life and creative work is a challenge in itself. Since realizing my gift in music, my goal has been to create consistency, where, truth be told, there was some but not an abundance. By setting goals, I’ve been able to create balance in what can be a busy and sometimes hectic life.
If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be and why?
I would love to collaborate with Kendrick right now because he clearly has no competition, and I’d love to see how being in the same creative space with him would push me to dial in. As an abstract writer, I often use visualization to creatively challenge myself by pitting myself against the best talents. To actually work with one of the greats in hip-hop would be a blessing.
Where do you see your music taking you in the next year?
I will probably land a major feature like the one I alluded to above. I see my music catching a lot more ears this year, and it could definitely be the pinnacle as far as exposure goes. I’m going to have the opportunity to be heard on a global scale, which will be great for music of all genres.
What’s the next big step for you as an artist?
Cultivating real relationships and mentorships to help me further navigate the music business as it undergoes changes. Developing relationships with publications like this one, Trap LA, LA On Lock, Nerve DJs, and more will be key for my continued success. Every step is a big step, as I am in a state of complete gratitude each time I’m moved to create. I have a project produced by RobLo that I want to release, followed by another project produced by the super-producer group The Mechanix. Two projects by two Billboard-charting producers out of the Bay Area in one year—2025 is my year, and I’m claiming it!
Where can we hear/watch your most recent work?
Check out my video “Grapes” by Soolie on my YouTube channel @Soolie.korlion. Follow me for updates on Instagram at the same tag for more big things to come.
What is the best way to contact you if fans want to give feedback or if other artists/producers want to collaborate?
Hit me up on Instagram: @soolie.korlion or email me at ForOurSonsEnterprises@Gmail.com.