Interview with an MC - Trajik - New Album!
You’ve been making SERIOUS moves over the past couple years, between tv roles, putting out great music and videos, and multiple appearances on local news. What’s the driving force behind your recent success and growth?
I had a long talk with myself. I felt like I’ve been in the entertainment business long enough and it’s time for some serious results. If I’m as good as I say I am, then what’s keeping me from conveying it to the world? That’s when I stopped asking for permission and started asking for forgiveness. I’ve always had the go-getter mentality, but this time it felt different. Almost like I had a second wind or burst of energy, like I’m getting ready to get out here and take mines. That’s when I realized nobody was stopping me but me. I’ve been in my own way this whole time. I also just want to be somebody that my kids continue to admire and look up to. I want to instill hard work in them and let them know nothing happens overnight. Anything worth having takes time.
I know you have a great relationship with Indianapolis producer Dylan Prevails. How did that relationship get started? And what was the moment or record or event that solidified your working relationship?
I met Prevails at a JBBL [Jay Brookinz Battle League] battle. It’s a beat battle series that Jay Brookinz hosts in the Fountain Square Area a few times a year. I was there supporting a high school friend, Joey French, who is another producer I work closely with, and he introduced us. From there we started building a relationship. It didn’t happen right off the bat. We kept in touch over the years and got to know each other. The first official record we collaborated on was “What’s a Friend” off of the Masterpiece project.
Give us a background on this new album. How did it come together? What was the inspiration for the record? What’s your favorite song on it?
The new album is titled Welcome to Traptown. The cover is a history lesson that depicts everything my city consists of, from corn to cocaine. I actually did the artwork myself. I took a different approach on this album, and I had a lot of fun making it. I went back to the beginning with a lot of the flows and feels. I felt like I was sixteen again, in the aspect of being a brand new artist.
In your mind, how have you grown and evolved, both musically and personally between this album and your last album (Masterpiece)?
Personally, I feel like I have become more confident in what I’m doing and the path I’m taking. In the beginning, I was looking to be discovered, and now I’m more focused on building a platform while maintaining ownership. My mindset has changed.
Musically, the quality of production has gotten better. The way we create and how we market it has improved. I’m not famous, but obviously it is working.
You’ve been putting out music for 10 years now, right? I don’t think most people know that. How would you describe your growth as an artist?
To be exact, it’s been over 15 years. My first official national release was The New Generation in 2004. Before that, I was in local group called Raww Dawgz with Grammy Award winner John Conte Jr. I feel like I have grown into a respectable brand by being consistent in dropping good product. I have been formulating a team over the course of my career, and I feel like that is something that takes time...sometimes a lifetime. The knowledge and understanding that I have now only comes with time.
I saw that you recently got an IMDB page, I have to imagine that was a proud moment, right? Did it feel like you’re an “official” actor now?
Yeah, that was definitely one of those moments. I always wanted and IMDB page. I recently became a member of SAG AFTRA, so I’m proud of that as well. My acting career is taking off, and it’s crazy because I haven’t devoted as much time to it as I have music. But ultimately without the music I wouldn’t have gotten there.
What was your experience like on Empire and on Proven Innocent? What did you learn from it? And, do you feel any type of way being cast as an inmate in both shows?
It was a lot of pressure to be honest. The initial song that I was supposed perform on Empire was reggae, so I had to practice being Jamaican for 2 weeks, from my gestures to the way I speak. Then, a couple days before filming, they handed me an entirely different record. So that was challenging and definitely required a professional. Proven Innocent, I look at as my first true acting role, because music wasn’t involved. I learned a lot from being on both sets. I got a chance to see the whole process and what goes into making a hit television series. One thing for certain, “the making of” segment doesn’t do any justice. You have to see it in person. As far as playing a prisoner in both shows, doesn’t bother me. I look how I look, and I understand how particular casting can be. I am dedicated to playing whatever role to bring across the authenticity in a film, as long as it doesn’t go against any of my morals or beliefs.
What type of roles are you hoping to get in the future?
I am looking to get recurring and leading roles. I was upgraded to principal performer following my Proven Innocent performance, so I can see it in the near future. I just recently auditioned for Chicago PD, and that role is larger than the other two combined. There’s a ladder you have to climb in the film industry just like any other industry. You don’t just come in scoring lead roles. You have to be eligible.
So, tell me more about Certified Thrilla. What is it? What are your goals with it? How can people be a part? And anything else you can share?
Certified Thrilla is an action/drama series surrounding a hitman. The screenplay was developed by myself and the filming will be under my direction. The story is based on a novel written by my long time friend, Philthy Phil, who is currently incarcerated. You can find the Certified Thrilla book on Amazon now. We plan on having it picked up by a television network and/or doing something with Netflix. It is just as good as anything out there, if not better. We hold open and closed casting calls for those interested. You can add the Certified Thrilla Series page on Facebook and Instagram for updates. You can also send your headshot and resume to certifiedthrillafilm@gmail.com
LISTEN TO “WELCOME TO TRAPTOWN”
You can check out Trajik on Spotify!
Or Visit his IMDB page!