Westleaf Staff
What's up Leafers? Welcome to the latest edition of On the Rise where we interview upcoming hip hop talent. Today's guest is hip hop artist, Tay Alexander. Tay is straight out of Chicago, Illinois and the soul in his music represents the city well. Tay is a lyricist with deep content and surgical bars . He's also a member of the group "It's the League". In addition to music, Tay is also a talented videographer and graphic designer. It was our pleasure to interview such a talented artist. But enough from us, we recently linked up with Tay to discuss his life and musical roots. Check out the interview below.
Westleaf Staff: What's up Tay? Your sound is dope. When did you start making music?
Tay Alexander: I started making music around junior year of high school. I used to record after basketball practice with my friends in the studio in the basement. We created ITL (It's The League), a group of talented independent artist. You should check them out, too.
Westleaf Staff: That's dope. You really have to be dedicated to work on your music after practice like that. What city do you represent?
Tay Alexander: I represent Chicago, Illinois. I just left for the first time and moved to Las Vegas, Nv. I’m enjoying the west coast, I’ve been networking and it’s a lot of opportunity but I definitely miss back home.
Westleaf Staff: You're a real dream chaser! I respect that. How did you create your stage name?
Tay Alexander: Tay Alexander is just my name shortened. It's now more than just a name, it’s a brand. I have a lot of talents and aspirations, and I’m going to create a great legacy with my stage name.
Westleaf Staff: Respect. I affirm that for you brother. So how did your early life shape your interest in music?
Tay Alexander: I’ve always been very into art and poetry. I remember I used to have notebooks full of sketches and poems growing up. I was playing sports at the time. Once I got older and around a studio the transition just happened. I started experiencing more and being able to talk about it.
Westleaf Staff: Who is your biggest Musical influence?
Tay Alexander: I listen to music from all around the world from different genres and time periods. It helps me be diverse in the making of the music. As far as my approach, my biggest musical influence is “Birch Street Mafia”. My uncle's 90’s HipHop/ Rap group. I still listen to their music today. It’s one thing to see artist on tv but I actually got to see real examples. They’ve traveled, performed, and interacted with many known artists. It showed me that if I have a talent or passion and you work hard you can be where you what to. Success is not that far away.
Westleaf Staff: Music runs in your blood. That's cool! What has been the defining moment in your music career thus far?
Tay Alexander: It’s hard for me to say a specific defining moment. I’ve accomplished a lot but it's still more to come. I’ve traveled, performed for thousands of people, and gained over 50k streams but that’s just more motivation to keep grinding to be better than I was yesterday.
Westleaf Staff: What makes you a unique artist?
Tay Alexander: The authenticity of it. I have my own style. It’s very diverse, sometimes it’s hard and aggressive, others it’s soft and poetic. I express how I feel, what I’m going through and past experiences. I like to explore different concepts, cadences, melodies, and word play throughout my music.
Westleaf Staff: What does art mean to you?
Taylor Alexander: Finding a creative way to express and share that free part inside of you that most people don’t get to see. It’s many forms, I create music, graphic design and film videography to share my passion. I encourage everyone to show theirs.
Westleaf Staff: Where do you see your music career going over the next few years?
Tay Alexander: I see my music career going very far. I’ve come a long way yet, I’m still not satisfied. I’m going to create something special, not just for me but for my family, friends, and everyone around me who supports the movement. I plan to work in music and the arts for a long time.
Westleaf Staff: Describe music in three words.
Tay Alexander: Art, Poetry, Life.
Follow Tay Alexander:
Instagram: Tay Alexander
Youtube: Tay Alexander
Spotify: Tay Alexander
