LST Zine 1 | Page 9

You mentioned that your ep GOD LISTENS encompassed a dark point in your life, including depression. I heard a tidbit of this in your latest project SONIA'S SON, particularly in your single "Motion." Do you feel like you're in a bright transitional period now that you're receiving so much positive attention?

“I feel like it's gotten better but I also still feel like I'm in a dark place. I'm just learning to live life day by day and trying not to put so much on my plate.”

You have a very distinct online presence and a clear support system, when it comes to your music. What do you think it takes to establish yourself? Do you have any words of advice for other artists in your area who need to strengthen their following?

“Just be yourself. Don't follow anyone and try to create your own sound. Take all of your influences and ball them into one. Just add your own sauce to it.”

A word you used to describe South Jersey is divided, can you elaborate on that? How was $outh$ide able to push through in a divided community?

“Everyone just doesn't really support each other like we should. There's not really a scene here so it's just a bunch of individual rappers beefing with each other. Crabs in a barrel.

“Honestly, we just focused on the positive and not the negative. Only worried about ourselves and on collaboration instead of diss records. Try to put on for the side.“