Music Interview: Hip-Hop Artist/Producer The LX delves on his creatives tastes, musical influences & new single ‘Loose’ from ‘GOOD WINS, VOL.1’ EP
Great to have you on Xttrawave. Please, introduce yourself.
What’s going on Xttrawave!? I started my music production career under the name Antmaestro. I was getting frustrated that some of my records weren’t getting placed – people sometimes treat you differently when they already know you (or think they know you). I started putting out records under The LX (Legends of Xia), a “band” from New Jersey. I faked it. I hid my identity because I wanted to see a true response to the music. People gravitated towards the music. I said that I had a “great relationship” with The LX and that I could get some features for some of the local artists. That’s how The LX was created LOL! Now, everyone knows who I am – but i wanted the music to speak for itself.
What got you into music and made you realize that it was your chosen path?
I started playing classical music at an early age. It was really sports and music for me growing up as a kid. A good friend of mine was (and to this day still is) one of the best rappers I knew. He bought tracks off of Sound Click at the time for $50. We were 12. I saw this as an opportunity to start producing. He gave me a copy of FL Studio and Adobe Audition, Then it was off to the races, I haven’t turned back!
Tell us about your new song “Loose”? And what’s the story behind it?
I’ve been behind the scenes for sometime now. Producing, engineering, and writing for some pretty incredible artists. I have a large catalog of songs. Some of which I’m waiting on artists to release, others are sitting on my hard drive. I just felt like it was “go time”. As much as I’ve done within the last 15 years, I feel like I’m just getting started. Like I’m just warming up and there’s so much I want to share with the world.
What was the process of recording the EP like?
The EP was almost effortless. It felt like it was aligned – perfect timing. I reached out to David Rush who’s a great friend of mine. We shared the same sentiments about us really finding our stride during the pandemic. Since we weren’t able to meet in person, we bounced some ideas around remotely. Technology can make you feel like your in the same room sometimes. We finished the project in 3 days.
At what point did you decide to pursue your own artist project after being a producer?
I realized that I had to put some things into motion. I’ve enjoyed my role behinds the scenes but felt that in order for some of these records to be heard, I needed to take the lead and a leap of faith by putting more material out – not waiting on others. I’m hopeful that this project will be the springboard for Good Company!
What makes your music unique? How would you describe it?
I’ve had the benefit of producing for artists in several genres (hip hop, r&b, pop). I’ve been able to blur the lines (or at least I’m trying to), by taking pieces from each and blending them into one. I think my experience as not just a producer, but and audio engineer and songwriter has played in my favor in shaping my sound.
Who are your biggest musical influences? And any particular artist/band you would like to collaborate with in the future?
It’s hard to say. I’m inspired by a lot. But, Pharrell Williams/Chad Hugo (The Neptunes) are certainly people I look up to and would like to collaborate with. They laid the blueprint for me in the way they were/are able to blend genres. They make it effortless.
Which is the best moment in your musical career that you’re most proud of?
Pulling up to a traffic light and hearing my song playing on Hot 97 from someone else’s car was a special moment. It was cool to see how far the music reached from making records in my basement. I also won the ASCAP – Harold Adamson Lyricist Award right before my first son was born so it was awesome to show him some of my hard earned accomplishments.
How do you balance your music with other obligations – family, friends or work?
I really don’t know. Sometimes you really have to calendar your time. Fortunately, I surround myself with friends and family that really understand my mission and support my goals. That certainly helps with the balance.
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians?
Keep pushing straight forward!
If you had one message to give to your fans, what would it be?
As cliche as it sounds, find your purpose – and then walk in it. Be strong and courageous, and never waiver.
What’s next for you? Any upcoming projects?
I’m gearing up to release my first Good Company collection – a collaborative project. It will feature some pretty incredible artists I’ve worked closely with throughout the years including Matt Narks, David Rush, PJay Johnson, monz, and several others. I’m really looking forward to this as it’s been in the making for sometime.
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