Artist Profile Series: Velous

 

By: Stephanie Banks

With vocals that can ease a broken heart, musicianship of the likes of Stevie Wonder and Pharrell Williams, and the mind of some of the greatest artists of our time; Velous is what I like to call a true refresher to the industry. The 21–year-old artist has only been working on his career for a short time but has the mindset and artistry of those who have been in the game for decades. His debut release ‘Velocity’ is set to hit the masses in early August with and entire list of hot tracks including ‘Pretty Girls’ and ‘Larger Than Life’. He’s not only a singer/ songwriter; he also produces and raps as well. The one-man-band known as Velous is definitely a true artist and also a humble spirit as well.

His inspiration for the craft comes from various genres and artists (major and independent), but most importantly his vocal inspiration comes right from home. He has taken the necessary steps early on in career in order to build his brand and develop a style that is much needed. Being crowned MTVu’s Freshman of the week with his video ‘Pretty Girls’ feat. MMG’s Torch back in March, Velous is showing no signs of stopping now.

Check out some of his work below!!!

http://www.velousmusic.com

Artist Profile Series: NIZM

By: Stephanie Banks

A wordsmith, a storyteller, a gentleman; just a few words that describes Chicago artist NIZM. With over 16 plus years in the industry, NIZM has developed a style of hip-hop that transforms the soul and with gritty drums being adorned by melodic tones and samples that takes you to the raw era of hip-hop, a more “golden time” if you will. His lyrics vary from topics of historic icons to contemporary issues that are currently happening in the streets. “I’m an artist that relates music through life,” states NIZM.

His inspiration for the historic hip-hop era came during his late teen years in conjunction with earlier influences from a varied collection of genres. NIZM states, “It’s always been like going back to where I was. When I first started out, you just did it for fun, it was the energy and the soul in the music that I think a lot of it lacks now.” His approach to his sound spans into younger generations, but is genuinely catered to the 25 and up crowd.

NIZM is partnered with his drummer and music director Tim Jones, and producer The Assassin in a group called Those Guys which showcases various tracks from his solo work and collaborations with his band members. The group has had several shows in the Chicago land area and is in the process of working on some new projects to be released soon. Catch up with NIZM on Facebook, Twitter, Band Camp, or in the words of the redefined gentleman himself,  “just Google me”.

Hey thought that wasn’t enough, check out the exclusive video featuring NIZM below!!!