There aren't many things that are universal in this world, but Hip Hop is definitely one of them. The common ground for so many- artistic expression. Since its inception, Hip Hop has been the greatest opportunity of a voice for those who are seemingly unheard. Throughout the years (about 30 to be exact) Hip Hop has become more than a form of music,more so a culture; dominating the masses senseof style, communication, and more times than not perspective.
Perspective by definition is " position; a way of regarding situations or topics, etc" I for one am I firm believer that it is paramount that Hip Hop be infused with fresh perspectives; innovative artists and contributors alike.
Meet FAM4LYFE, a tandem out of "Money Earning Mount Vernon" backdrop for such successful careers as Heavy D, Pete Rock and CL Smooth, even Mr Sean Combs.
A dual threat consisting of A-Lova (vocalist) and Rocky J Johnson (lyricist). Once upon a time the two made seperate waves as solo artist but saw their combination as inevitable, the common ground being a passion for music. A 10 year friendship has supplemented the growth of their chemistry artistically. Their fresh perspective tagged "LOVEROC" is just what the doctor ordered; the formula- inspiration by the greats in Hip Hop and R and B.
With their debut release "Supastar" in 2010 FAM4LYFE has built a steady buzz via blogs, radio stations, as well as receiving acknowledgement from record executives across the globe. Dubbed by multi-platinum producer Rocwilder "the best of both worlds" after their performance @ the Hip Hop Unplugged series last year, their energy and live performance has lead to reverence that has propelled their record to receive spins in cities througout the US, and overseas (Japan,the UK, and Switzerland). Often times you hear it said that it is deeper than music. Fam4LYFE epitomizes that. Passion, Progression, and commitment is applied to everything that they do; A desire to achieve that cannot be denied, and a winning formula of a powerful 1-2 punch that is second to none. As it stands, Music is just another element of Lyfe. And at the rate these fellas are going, LYFE is going to be good for years to come
Get to know the artists behind the brand- FAM4LYFE
What was it like growing up in Mt Vernon music wise; you guys had some successful acts to follow?
Growing up in Mt. Vernon, coming up behind such huge artists and moguls is a huge inspiration because as long as we put in the work and stay focused on the goals at hand the “sky’s the limit” to where FAM4LYFE can go.
Was it easy to go from solo artists to a group; how has that transition been?
A: Actually it wasn’t a hard transition at all due to the fact that we used to collaborate so much in the past. The only real challenge was coming up with new ways to become more innovative in regards to arranging and formatting songs to fit our sound.
J: It’s been great. Being solo is nice but when you find somebody that's on your level, you can take your music so much further.
Do you find yourselves always on one accord creatively?
A: Not at all (laughs). Sometimes me and Roc fight like real brothers until we finally come to a happy medium. Then there are other times that we will be right there in each other’s thoughts damn near finishing each other’s verses.
J: It’s crazy the way we think … I may have something, then he finishes it. Next thing you know "BOOM" another hit.
When you aren't how do you save face?
Sometimes it’s an ongoing battle until one of us gets the other to see a particular vision. It usually just clicks from there and we just go back to business as usual.
Who are some artists who inspired you guys musically?
A: Various people. From the “Best of Both Worlds” collab, to the late great Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Boyz to Men, Brian McKnight just to name a few.
J: My father was one of my major inspirations. Then there are great rappers like Jigga and Biggie
Why did you choose Supastar as your first single?
"SUPASTAR" just totally exemplified everything that we wanted to say to our fans, haters, and to our moms, the best way we knew how – through song. The whole vibe, chemistry and production were undeniable. We needed to let the world know who we are – “SUPASTARS”
Explain "LOVEROC"
“LOVEROC” came about because we always get the question “so where do you guys fit in genre-wise?” One thing about FAM4LYFE is we pride ourselves on our individuality and standing out so we had to come up with something different. We put our brains to work and came up with a play off both of our names “LOVEROC.” It’s our genre, a mix of both of us. It explains our music and movement. It is also the name of our next single which will be released on Valentine’s Day.
You got acquainted with some heavy hitters @ the hiphopunplugged series, how did that experience help?
It helped a lot. It was our second or third time really performing together as a group and we received a lot of great feedback on our stage show as well as our debut single “SUPASTAR”
Which do you prefer: in studio or performing?
A: Funny you ask that because we debate on this question all the time. Honestly I think it’s 50/50 for me because the creative process is such an amazing experience but when we are out there performing it’s an unexplainable feeling that I never want to end.
J: BOTH! In the booth I get to be creative as I want. On stage I get a rush. When those lights hit me it’s showtime!
"PCP" are words that anyone can live by- how do you guys apply it to your lives individually as well as your partnership?
P.C.P is our way of life because without passion and commitment there will be no consistent progression in anything you do in life.
What are some outlets that the fans can find your music?
www.reverbnation.com/fam4lyfe and www.youtube.com/fam4lyfemusiclive for live footage our songs are also available for download on www.bandcamp.com/fam4lyfe and www.soundlcoud.com/fam4lyfe
What do you think is your "niche"?
We make music for any and everybody who can appreciate diversity, new sounds, and lots of energy. We make music for everyone, every occasion, and music that will make you feel good in every way.
How will you guys achieve longevity?
By staying true to ourselves and audience and by continuing to take risks with our music while standing out from the crowd. We want to world to feel our music forever.
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