Q&A With Columbus, GA Based Hip Hop Artist Self-O.N.E.
Congratulations on your latest Album release “218”. We checked it out and we really enjoyed the fresh new sound & perspective on new Hip Hop coming out of Columbus GA. What motivated you to create this style of music. And how did you come up with your MC name Self-O.N.E.
I’m a student of the game, first. I don’t make records just to make them, the music has to speak to me. That’s my style. The name comes from who I am, literally. I’m very introverted, and I rather be dolo than in a crowd of people.
How is the underground sound out in Columbus GA?
It’s a lot of talent of here, man. We’re fighting against Atlanta, though. Why search for talent in other cities in GA when Atlanta is a one stop shop? That’s really how it goes. It’s like climbing Mt. Everest in a tank top & slides. It’s very similar to Griselda & Buffalo vs NY (Boroughs). It’s spitters out here.
How are you dealing with this whole nationwide lockdown due to Covid-19 Corona Virus? Has this effected your music career in any way?
Like everyone else, I’m just taking it one day at a time. I have a few things lined up because of this. So it kind of worked out in my favor. Stay tuned…
Who are you biggest underground influences?
Right now, it’s Griselda. What they’re accomplishing is incredible. They made it to The Tonight Show with Fallon. That’s incredible. They’re creating a lane for all of us, and I appreciate that. We need that balance in hip hop. But shouts to Roc Marc, Eto, Mach-Hommy, Crimeapple, and guys like that. They’re all on fire.
You recently dropped a new album “218” across all streaming platforms! Please give us some background on that project!? Could you tell me the inspiration behind the project and artwork?
“218” is my birthday. It’s the most personal thing to me. So we @ VAR540, felt that was a perfect title when we wrapped up the project in July 2019. When I first started recording this album, I had no idea it was going to be this. “Umbrella” is a record I had back in 2012/2013, but I wasn’t working on anything so I kept it in the vault. I did “Altitude” & “Truth Is…” before the new year of 2019, and then I hit a groove. I did the remaining 9 records in 3 sessions after I heard the “Love Remains” beat in the studio for the first time in April of 2019. That record is the most important record on the album, because that’s when I figured out what I wanted out of the project. If you go on my IG page, I have footage of the first time I heard that beat. It was a special moment. And with the artwork, that just symbolizes my ability to escape any situation you throw me in. It’s survival. Adapt to your surroundings. Become the light.
How does social media play a role on pushing Self-O.N.E. music.
I’m not the biggest social media guy, but I understand the need for it. So much so that we even created our site for people to easily get in contact with us.
www.var540com !! Check us out. Merch. Music. Podcast. Interviews, etc.
What are a few different moves your making for 2020 when it comes to your music career?
Good one. You almost got me. You just have to stay tuned, haaaa
Our most popular question….What is your definition of “Underground Hip Hop”?
Honesty. That’s what it means to me. It’s not trying to make a “club record” or “this for my ladies” or “this for my thugs,” but it’s just making music that feels right for you. It’s yours. And if the public feels it, it’s beautiful, but if not, it’s okay because you made that work for you. You didn’t make it for the approval of others.
Where can our BLOG audience find your music and follow you on social media?
www.var540.com !! Album is available for purchase there!
Twitter – @iSigg218
IG – @selfone218
