They’re really checking you out and downloading. Talk about your mixtapes, and what you put in for success?
Yung Blaza: I’m very grateful for everybody that listened to the mixtapes, whether they liked it or hated it. The fact that they took the time out, especially if they didn’t know my name, means a lot. I can count about 11-15 mixtapes out there. I have a core fan base. I couldn’t keep a consistent fan base until I dropped the No Pressure series. It’s funny too that you mention Dreams of Victory because that was the last one before the No Pressure series. That was my most complete album. I took a year to make that, and I wanted songs for females, party songs, & crunk songs. I spent so much time trying to please everybody, but it took away from me as an artist. The response then took away from my morale. It was my most complete album, but I did so much to try and please so many people that I couldn’t possibly please everybody. So, it took a toll on me on the creative side. I was getting a lot of listens, but I couldn’t hold on to anybody. That project came back to backfire, and it inspired the No Pressure series. Now, I make the songs I like to listen to. When I write them, I’m happy. When I record, I’m happy to be in the booth. That’s how I made the first No Pressure album, and I actually got more fans that way. With No Pressure 2, I added more concepts to it. The album now, I can’t wait for everyone to hear it. I did a little of everything, but at this point, I’ve established who I am as an artist. You know what you’re getting from me as an artist. This one is very branded. It’s all about Yung Blaza. It’s called No Pressure 3: Nothing is Forgiven. It’s about all the adversity I went through, the managers I used to work with, Promoters, and DJs I used to work with. I remember those who stuck by me, I take care of the people who took care of me, and I won’t forget those who made it difficult for me along the way (laughing).
U.G. Digital Mag: I love how you thought it through. Your journey through this in figuring our what works best for you speaks to the essence of artistry. As you put music out, it makes more sense that you do what you like. Same as if you’re working a job everyday. It should be passion-driven, because then you do your best at it. Your music should speak to you, and you can get down to the core of who you are. People will then see your authenticity. What do you think about mixtapes in general. It’s honestly more beneficial and cost effective to release your own projects. You stand to do much better if you work it right.
Yung Blaza: I think the game has changed a lot. I think it’s giving an advantage to independent artists right now. There’s many ways to distribute right now. Sites like Apple, Spotify, Tidal, and you can own your publishing. Mixtapes have gotten much easier. You used to have to pick one site, vs now, you can do multiple.
U.G. Digital Mag: I’m putting my plug in man. We stream now too (laughing).
Yung Blaza: Most definitely. I would love to.
U.G. Digital Mag: It’s cool, and weird at the same time. I followed all the other sites, and now I’m just like I want in on the action. We’re dropping that plug every chance we get. It’s super dope though. Having this avenue where you can put your own music out, and get it directly to the fans, it builds your recognition. You can put it out there for free, or sell it. Also, there’s less people involved, meaning more money for you (laughing).
Yung Blaza: Exactly… It gives independent artists that advantage. You can build your resume before the labels come to you. It gives artists more leverage in regard to negotiating deals. It’s like, I’m getting this amount on my own already.
U.G. Digital Mag: With that in mind, what’s your plan throughout the remainder of the year. The next mix comes out May 22. What’s going on the rest of the year?
Yung Blaza: The last listening session is in Charlotte, then we’re doing a release party in Atlanta. That’s June 17. I’m headlining my first show in Fayetteville on June 2. In King’s Mountain, its a summer kick off festival and I’ll be headlining that. I got a lot of big things. We’re kicking off a college tour in the fall. I have the second single set up. Were pushing “No Go” still. It’s a big year.