The Westleaf
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, Yung Pre. Pre is an artist straight out of Lexington, Kentucky. Inspired by internationally acclaimed Artists like Tupac, Bone Thugs, Nipsey, J. Cole, Nas, and DMX, Yung Pre’s musical journey began as a way to express intricate emotions where words fail. Being an avid storyteller, Yung Pre is greatly influenced by real life experiences and hardships allowing him to invoke strong emotions in listeners.
Apart from invoking emotions, Yung Pre also presents music in multiple styles, all while maintaining a consistent brand. The multi-talented artist is the founder of the Fashion Label, "SE Cloths", that's meant to embody the idea of self-elevation. With big dreams and plenty of energy to spare, Yung Pre seeks to influence society positively with his music, and is well on his way to becoming one of the most phenomenal artists in our generation. But enough from us, we recently linked up with Pre to discuss his life and musical roots. Check out the interview below.
Westleaf Staff: What's up Yung Pre? We love your sound. When did you start making music?
Yung Pre: My first song I ever recorded was at the age of 12 with 2 of my cousins. I officially started making music I would say in 2012 as far as trying to make it into something.
Westleaf Staff: Dope! 12 is super early. Music is in your DNA at at this point! What city do you represent?
Yung Pre: Lexington, Kentucky. Home of thoroughbreds.
Westleaf Staff: Kentucky stand up! How did you create your stage name?
Yung Pre: It started in college. I used to say I stay ready, or Im ready like the prelim. People also used to talk about how I would pronounce words with clarity. Being a broadcast major meant that I had to practice speaking.
Westleaf Staff: Dope! Gotta stay ready. I like how your name came naturally. So how did your early life shape your interest in music?
Yung Pre: Being raised in a church environment early on was a big part of shaping my interest in music. I played a lot of instruments from the drums to piano. In my family it was essential to be musically inclined.
Westleaf Staff: Nice to see it runs in the family. That church influence is deep in the hip hop scene. We've interviewed a lot of artists who started in the church. Salute. Who is your biggest Musical influence?
Yung Pre: My biggest musical influence would have to be 90's hiphop. Growing up we were somewhat regulated away from secular music but I remember hearing Pac and Bone Thugs for the first time and knew I'd always listen to "worldly" music as the church folks say. The continuation of listening led me to finding a way of releasing my life through art.
Westleaf Staff: Can't do nothing but respect that. I'm glad that you're releasing music and living your dreams. It's inspiring fasho. What has been the defining moment in your music career?
Yung Pre: To be honest I don't think Ive had that defining moment yet. I feel that my push into the industry has increased gradually but is on the cusp of pushing the line, especially with my upcoming album I plan to release soon. But notable moments have been performing along side some big acts such as Flip, LIl Durk, Sada Baby, and EST Gee.
Westleaf Staff: Nice. So what makes you a unique artist?
Yung Pre: Telling my story makes me unique. I know everyone goes through thangs but we get a thrill out of listening about others. I've been through about it all and I know my music can grab the attention of someone that can relate, that may need my words for encouragement. Knowing how to harness that makes me unique. I can also do more than spit on the mic. I'm also building my sound with my own production of beats, as well as designing my brand from apparel to marketing.
Westleaf Staff: Yo! That's super creative. That's that Diddy vibe. Get it in my brother! What does art mean to you?
Yung Pre: Art to me is being able to express to others what you can't express in other forms of communication. A painter may paint instead of speaking about their experience. Just like a dancer dances to express their emotions.
Westleaf Staff: Facts. Where do you see your music career going over the next few years?
Yung Pre: I see things up big time, and not just on the music side. I got a lot of other things I do on top of being an artist. My name will leave a mark and create a legacy in a positive way.
Westleaf Staff: Describe music in three words.
Yung Pre: Sound of Life.
Follow Yung Pre:
Instagram: @preskiilit
Youtube: Yung Pre
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