Resilient, unique and loyal. These are just a few words to describe rap artist, Test. Raised in the South Baltimore area, Test knew from an early age that he would play a major role in the music industry. Growing up in the harsh environment of the DMV, Test escaped his surroundings by freestyling as a young kid with his friends.
He received praise from his peers on his rhymes, which led to Test taking his musicality more seriously. His melodic notes and heavy bars caught the attention of one of the hottest rappers of our generation – Future. Future took Test under his wing and he accompanied the famed artist on his Legendary Nights tour, performing his music.
In 2018, Test released his first body of work entitled “Stop Playin’ With Me” that garnered a strong fanbase in America as well as the UK. In 2019, Test released “Fuk Ya Feelings” and “The Other Side” which led to more doors opening with a New Balance campaign.
Later that year, Test teamed up with Future again for the 1800 Tequila album, “1800 Seconds vol. 2”, where he contributed the singles “Top Down”, “Put It In Drive”, “Don’t Stop” and “Losing My Mind”. His first project was so well received that he decided to make a part 2 with the release of “Stop Playin’ Wit Me 2” in 2020.
This project featured his hit single “Not Like Me” which has been quickly gaining traction on social media platforms such as Snapchat, which has catapulted his career. “I make soul music, music so relatable it feels like I know you, like I’m talking to you. Every time I sit down in front of the mic that’s the goal, keeping the music relatable, authentic, giving the real life sh*t, not just the up’s you gone get the downs too”, Test stated.
Now, Test is gearing up for the release of new music and videos which will showcase the evolution and growth he has been through and prove why he is a force within the industry.
What’s your story as an artist ?
I grew up in Baltimore, always looking for a chance to show my talent and passion for music. Even while I would run the streets trapping and doing what I had to do, I always made time for the studio and music! As a kid I spent most of my time and money on pursuing my dreams.
What do you want your music to communicate ?
I would like for my music to speak on many levels! I make mostly relatable music, that’s my lane. I want the energy, faith, confidence, growth, dedication, consistency, love and pain to be so clear that the listener feels as if we know each other personally. I want them to feel as if I know what they’re going through and these songs I make are used as therapy.
What are some sources of inspiration for your storytelling ?
Life! Life has always been my biggest inspiration. The things I go through such as losing my mother, who was my biggest supporter. My dealings with women have always been a source of inspiration for my music. My children are the greatest gifts of my life! Real life situations are my inspiration behind all my music and you can hear that on my latest project – Stop Playin Wit Me 2.
What’s the record or artist that made you realize you wanted to be an artist ?
Michael Jackson was one of the many artists who made me realize the type of artist I wanted to be. From his musicality, style, and how he resonated with his audience, I wanted to make sure I embodied those qualities when I created my music.
Tell us about your latest release and how it came about ?
My latest release is my single “Go Mode”. It came about while I was in the studio in London working on my latest project “Stop Playin’ Wit Me 2” I was going through beats and as soon as I heard this one I knew the energy was crazy!
What inspires your sound ?
I always wait to hear the beat first. Before I think about anything I ask myself what is the music trying to say to me and how does it make me feel. I get my sound and vibes from the music before the song or lyrics are created… my sound or how I approach a song will always be determined by how the beat makes me feel.
What’s your favorite tune of yours ?
I have many favorites… But at this moment my favorite song is “Go Mode” That’s what I’m on. I’m living life in Go Mode! I’m ready!
What are some things you really want to accomplish as an artist ?
There is so much I wanna do. The main thing for me is to just be accomplished in all that I do musically even if it’s just getting the perfect mix on a song. Overall I would like to put more artists on and help those with drive to get to the next level. I Definitely want to go Diamond! Most importantly I want to leave a significant mark on the rap game!
Favorite lyrics you ever wrote ?
Honestly I don’t have a favorite lyric because everything I write truly speaks to me. Like I mentioned before “Go Mode” really speaks to what I’m on right now.
Was there ever a moment when you felt like giving up ?
Yes for sure. Plenty of times. Fortunately God always kept me going and helped me keep my head up! I can remember crying to myself because nothing I was trying to do would work. It broke me down. Had me question everything. The only time I ever felt alone is when I wanted to give up. I learned that when you put God first everything else will come second.
What is the best advice you ever have gotten ?
“Be loyal.. But don’t be Dumb”. That stayed in my head everyday since I was told that!
Where do you think the next game changer will be in the music industry and entertainment scene ?
I would have to say with me!! The next game changer starts with me! #StopPlayinWitMe
