Dayton, Ohio’s Young Reese Dude is prepared to put the soulful history of his city on his back

Artist Name: Young Reese Dude

Hometown: Dayton, Ohio

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

I’m from Dayton, Ohio. It sits between Columbus and Cincinnati. I know a lot of people think about farmland when they hear that someone is from Ohio, but there are a few cities that are a lot more fast-paced, and Dayton is one of them. I’m from the poverty-stricken West side of my city. Predominantly black and where most people rob Peter to pay Paul. There are a lot of hard-working people where I’m from, and there are a lot of hustlers. My city is also known for funk legends, like The Ohio Players, Lakeside, and Heatwave. All those things combined helped shape who I am as an artist. From the sounds that I heard to the things I endured to help with the stories I recall in my lyrics.

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

I can’t really remember my first introduction to hip-hop, but I do know the first song I ever learned was Warren G, Regulators. I also knew my Pops and Uncle were rappers. They were the spark that inspired me to follow music. Then I heard Jay-Z, The Blueprint, and that album made me want to actually be a rapper.

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

I started freestyling in the 7th grade and started putting it to pad in the 10th grade. But I didn’t start actually recording and creating music until a little after high school. I got introduced to this engineer named Moe Beats (rest in peace) when I turned 18. He had one of the best studios in the city, and I got to record my first mixtape, “The Natural”.

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

If I had to describe my style, I would use three words; grimy, conscious, and soulful. As dirty as the gutter is, I try to give you the human side of it, with a heartfelt backdrop. I think that’s what sets me apart from other artists. Instead of just giving you the glamorous part of what the street entails, I give you the most honest version that I know.

What role does your hometown play in your music and artistry? Are there any local influences that you incorporate into your work?

My hometown is the catalyst of every story that you’ve ever heard in my music. I try to be as honest as possible. Except for switching names and locations around (so no one is implemented). It is literally the reason I am the way I am, and I rap the way I rap. Like I stated before, there are a lot of funk legends from my city. So, I try to make sure I incorporate as much soul and funk into my music as I can. Not to mention some of the Dope MC’s from my city, like P Tha Prophet, Cooley The Curator, and producer Don Johnson.

What challenges have you faced as an independent artist in the hip-hop scene? How have you overcome them?

To me, the two biggest challenges have been building a fan base and having the financial backing. I just keep trucking along though. Promoting when I can, and consistently dropping music, hoping it reaches the people that is supposed to. I think the biggest key is learning that you have a niche and finding the audience within that niche.

Can you tell us about your latest project? What can fans expect from it?

My latest project “dARK” is out on band camp and drops on streaming December 5th. “dARK” Is the follow up to my project “lIGHT” that dropped at the end of August. It is produced by Don Johnson. I’d consider “lIGHT” being the hero arc, and “dARK” being the villain arc. The yin and yang. 

It’s hits a lot harder. The songs navigate from a realization you may actually be the villain in someone’s story and being ok with it. I think if you enjoyed “lIGHT”, you’ll love the contrast but small subtle similarities in “dARK”.

Young Reese Dude is an authentic, streetwise lyricist with excellent storytelling and songwriting skills. If you enjoy raw, gritty lyrics and enticing conceptual Hip-Hop, make sure to follow and support this up-and-coming artist. He’s well on his way, don’t get left behind!

Instagram: @937ReeseDude

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Website: https://youngreesedude.bandcamp.com