VA born and prepared to carry the torch

Artist Name: DeAngelo Xavier

Hometown: Norfolk, VA

-Can you tell us about your background? Where did you grow up, and how has that
influenced your music? 

I was born in Norfolk, Virginia. I was raised by my mother, who really tried her best to teach me and my brothers how to become Men. The things she couldn’t teach me I learned from my environment. Ironically music wasn’t something that I learned from those experiences. I was into sports during those times. I developed a love of music after I graduated high school. I was always good with words and could articulate them into poetry, but I never saw myself as a musician. One of my friends invited me to the studio and told me to write something to Camp lo’s “Luchini” instrumental and the rest is history. I know the history of Virginia and how it developed and produced so many legends in the music industry but honestly, they weren’t the reason for my music interest. 

-What was your early introduction to music and hip-hop? Do you have any specific
artists or experiences that inspired you? 

I developed a love for “real” R & B music growing up with my mom, but the Hiphop side came from my oldest brother. When he learned to drive and got his license, he had control over what we listened to when he was behind the wheel. At that time, I was a sponge and thinking about it now the music selection he possessed was dope because it wasn’t just the “popular” artists. I grew up listening to artist like: Killa Army, Nas, Biggie, AZ, The Firm, Pac, Wu-Tang clan, N.O.R.E, Jay Z and Busta Rhymes. 

But the artist that inspired me to write, not rap but write was Nas. 

-When did you start making music, and what was your first project? 

I didn’t start making music professionally until 2016. I say professionally because I wasn’t as serious or didn’t really have aspirations to be a musician prior. 
My first album was “WhiteWalls”. Released in 2016. 

-How would you describe your style and sound? What sets you apart from other
artists? 

A lot of people say it, but I think I truly mean it when I say “authentic”. I truly don’t have a need to copy or mimic anything. My writing style is centered around metaphors, word play, and a broad vocabulary. Honestly the way I write is “whatever comes to mind first”. I hate “trying to write” because that’s when things seem forced. Best way to describe it is how one of my mentors used to say “No one can be you better than you”.

-What has been your proudest moment in your music career so far?

Being able to connect and control a crowd without “asking” for participation. Seeing how I can perform in front of so many people and command a stage. I’m not very fond of talking to big groups of people but performing has shown me that I have the power to do so. Another thing that I’ve been proud of myself for is being capable to hold my own with top tier artists. The “Graffiti On Gold” series was really a test for myself on how well I write and if I could curate something with so much pressure. 

-Are there any upcoming events, shows, or releases you’d like to share with our readers?

I’ll be featured in “Overtime Hustlin Magazine” along with G4 Jag and the rest of Fly Family members. I have two upcoming shows in August in Virginia Beach. I’ll be opening for Dave East on August 16th and Talib Kweli on August 31st. I’m also releasing the 3rd installment of “Graffiti On Gold” with producer Malinisoundz soon. 

-How can people support you and your music as an independent artist?

The easiest and free way to support me and another artist is by sharing their music and being honest about what you like. A simple share can go so far. It’s a word-of-mouth type of thing. A lot of times people act as if they are afraid to support something that isn’t popular “yet”, but I think that’s the beauty in finding new artists and sharing them to your peers. I’m from the era where “putting someone on” was a thing to do.

Follow DeAngelo Xavier on his socials to support his endeavors. This artist has the drive and skillset to be a juggernaut in the rap game. Real lyricism coupled with substance and grit. The sky is the limit, and his music speaks for itself. Don’t be late to the party, it’s only a matter of time.

Socials:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/_deangeloxavier?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

X: https://x.com/_DeAngeloXavier

Website: https://linktr.ee/deangeloxavier