Q1 – Thanks for stopping by to politick with us. I was reading that you are from Boston. Can you discuss your background and how you fell in love with music?
I received my first hip-hop CD in 5th grade as a gift and that was it. I fell in love immediately with the Marshall Mathers LP. Played it hundreds of times and studied it. From there, I started listening to a lot of other lyrical artists like Lloyd Banks, 50 Cent, Tupac… I always appreciated artists that had something real to say.
Q2 – Can you talk about your name? We heard your abroad going to school? What do you think about the fact of going to school in Spain benefits you as a emcee?
SWB just stands for my initials. It stands for me, because me and the music are the same. There is no separation or alter ego. What I say and talk about is my real life. Me going to school at Berklee College of Music at their Valencia, Spain Campus is a huge opportunity for me to network with other artists and producer. In addition, it is an incredible opportunity for me to understand the business side of the music industry and apply that to my own career.
Q3 – I hear some have compared you to Eminem? What do you think about this?
I think some people might compare my SOUND to Eminem at first. However, anyone who listens to my content and lyrics will very quickly understand that we are two completely different artists. I look up to Eminem as an inspiration and lyrical genius but as an artist I have a very different message and brand.
Q4 – Who is your most dedicated and loyal fan?
One of my most loyal fans is my boy Mike from College in Maryland. We met up the first week of freshman year and realized that we both made music. We collaborated on a few songs under the group name “Mile High” releasing songs on SoundCloud. He produces now and has taken a step away from writing but anytime I put out new music he is the first to text me. I often send him previews of songs far in advance to get his opinion. He’s really the person who convinced me to release my music online in the first place.
Q5 – Can you discuss your plans for the rest of 2018 and plans for 2019?
My plans for the rest of 2018 and 2019 are to first, get my Masters degree in Global Entertainment and Music Business from Berklee College of Music. I plan to take the connections I make this year and the knowledge I acquire and allow that to shape my plans for 2019.
Q6 – Can you describe some tools or techniques that you use to stay motivated on your goals?
My father grew up the youngest of seven children in the inner city of Boston. He came from a poor family and an abusive household. He started his own business and was able to get himself out of that environment and become successful. I apply his story to almost everything I do. It’s a huge motivating factor for me. In addition, I turn any negativity or criticism of me or my music into motivation. Some of my best music is created in the face of people doubting me.
Q7 – If someone never heard your music before, what is the first song that you would want them to hear?
If someone never heard my music before, the first song I think I would want them to hear is “Bravo”. I feel like that gives a good impression of who I am as a person and how motivated I am. At the same time I’m lyrically flexing a little bit and I think it shows off my lyricism and talent in a pretty solid way overall.
Q8 – What is the message behind the 2 singles out at radio “Bravo” and “Live to be”?
The message behind my two singles out right now “Bravo” and “Live to Be” is very similar. Both songs talk about the limitless potential everyone has when they block out negativity and distractions. When you focus on your goals and don’t let other people bring you down you can achieve greatness. The message is really that I refuse to listen to or let anyone negatively impact me.
Q9 – Thanks for coming thru. Anymore words for the readers, where can we check out more of your music? buy your music?
I have some new singles dropping the very end of October and into November. You can follow me on twitter and Instagram at @Real_SWB for updates and previews. Search for SWB on Apple Music, Spotify, Tidal, and everywhere else. I appreciate the support!
Heads Down Music Video
The true story of my father’s rise from poverty and abuse to CEO and model father. Hopefully this video can inspire other people to follow their dreams no matter what level of opposition they’re faced with.