What’s your stage name and where are you from?
My stage name is Vinnie-Dangerous, and I’m from NC.
What’s the story behind your stage name?
Vinnie was my grandfather’s nickname from when he was younger in NY. I’m named after him, and people say I act just like him. “Dangerous” came from one of my first performances, where the host said I sounded dangerous because my flow was so aggressive, and it stuck. I also think it fits because my style can be so unpredictable, and people don’t know what I’ll do next.
Describe your musical journey in three sentences.
My journey has been one of authenticity, independence, and self-sufficiency. For a long time, I didn’t have much support, whether it was from family, friends, or people who only saw me a certain way or wanted me to be a certain way if they were to work with me. I never wanted to be something I wasn’t, so I stood firm on my beliefs even if I was left lonely at times.
Share an interesting experience you had while creating your latest track.
With my song “I Love You So Much,” I wrote it as a dedication to my son, and I wanted to make something similar to YouTube Kids channels like Hey Bear Sensory so he could sleep to it, just like he does to their music. My album “Dream ‘Til It’s Over” is inspired by becoming a father for the first time.
What message do you want to convey through your music?
My main message in my music is always to speak your truth unapologetically. I speak about how I see myself and the world with no barriers. Whether it’s politics, self-reflection, sex, or whatever, I want to be my 100% authentic self and show people they can do it too and be successful.
Tell us about a challenge you faced during production and how you overcame it.
Balancing being a dad and a husband to my wife while making music was a big challenge. Before then, I could focus on just making the music, but your time isn’t as finite with all the responsibilities in this new chapter of my life.
If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be and why?
Sampha. His “Lahai” album from last year is literally perfect to me, and I feel like his type of storytelling and sound is very similar to mine. He is a big inspiration to me right now.
Where do you see your music taking you in the next year?
I see myself collaborating with other artists and diving into sync licensing. In the process of creating my latest album, I fell in love with the production and engineering process. I would like to get into more of a behind-the-scenes role and help other artists develop their sound as well.
What’s the next big step for you as an artist?
The next big step is to support myself 100% with my music and talents. I don’t really have aspirations to be famous; I just want to be able to support myself and my family with what I love to do and am most passionate about.
We occasionally feature artists on our Bird of Paradise Podcast for in-depth discussions. Would this be something you’re interested in exploring?
Yes, absolutely!
Are there any other promotional opportunities you’re looking for to boost your visibility?
Social media promo and media coverage would be a big help.
Where can we hear/watch your most recent work?
You can check out my website, www.vinniedangerous.com, and follow me on any of my social media accounts @vinniedangerous.
What is the best way to contact you if fans want to give feedback or if other artists/producers want to collaborate?
You can reach me via email at vinniedangerousmusic@gmail.com or DM me on Instagram @Vinniedangerous.
