Published: September 4, 2009 9:50 PM EST
By: Isaac Davis Jr., MBA (Juniorscave.com)
New Music Spotlight September 2009 Edition
Cy Harp
Cy Harp
Cy Harp makes music from the heart and soul. He takes his own personal and life experiences and turns them into music that many can relate to when listening to his songs. With a smooth style and great lyrical flow, this soulful entertainer is creating a new type of Rap music that fans are enjoying. In this spotlight with our Webzine, Cy Harp talks about his personal life and his passion for making music. Enjoy!
Isaac: We'd love to know about your inspirations growing up. I hear so many influences in your music. How old were you when you first discovered music? Is there any kind of musical history in your family?
Cy Harp: I cannot even remember how old I was when I first discover music. Dad said I was made off of Marvin Gaye and the back seat of a car (ha-ha) so I guess then. My musical background is full of poetry writing, from my grandma, all the way down. My older brother (the reason I started rapping) also did music before the incarceration.
Isaac: What drew you to pick up a mic in the first place?
Cy Harp: My older brother was the reason I picked up a pen, pad and a microphone. I remember being about 7 seeing him leave for shows. Seeing him with his clothing and posters, and just wanting to be like him. The incarceration for murder hurt but helped me carry out mine and his passion.
Isaac: As you hit your teenage years, did you know that this was what you would be doing for the rest of your life?
Cy Harp: Yes and no. This is going to sound stereotypical, but I figured I was either going to rap or be in the NBA. Basketball died out when my only choice was to go overseas, didn't want to do that. Those were like good looking identical twins to me, and one moved away.
Isaac: Is there a performer in any genre of pop culture that you would like to work with?
Cy Harp: Not really, but if I could create my dream song by rewinding time, I would feature Tupac and put Marvin Gaye on the hook. That would be super soulful.
Isaac: Who are some musicians that you really like, present or past?
Cy Harp: I like Tupac and Marvin Gaye obviously… Young Jay-Z, 50 cent and a lot of artist I can relate too. I like artist that I feel are doing what they are rapping about. Don't like contradictory rap.
Isaac: What is your ultimate goal with your music career?
Cy Harp: My ultimate goal with my music career is to be remembered forever. Not just for the actual music, but everything I brought to the table. Cy Harp made people feel comfortable being themselves will be the legacy.
Isaac: What has been some of the obstacles it has taken to get this far in your career?
Cy Harp: A huge obstacle has been the balance of college and music. Sometimes I will have a test a Monday morning, and have a late Sunday show. That can be exhausting at times. Another one I would say is developing a budget. Anybody in any form a business knows that's tough.
Isaac: Would you recommend this "field" to others who are aspiring to be musicians like you?
Cy Harp: Being honest, I wouldn't necessarily recommend anything from anybody. I feel you should do what's in your heart, shouldn't even matter what I say at all. I know that's the way I am. Only thing I would say is if you want to be in this field… having a lot of confidence in yourself because it's definitely going to get tested.
Isaac: Describe one piece of advice you've have been given to by others in the music industry.
Cy Harp: Who you know determines where you will be, and what you know will determine how long you will be there.
Isaac: What genre of music do you consider most of your music?
Cy Harp: I like to consider my music soulful/rap. I mixture of my heart and outlook on life mixed with the rap elements.
Isaac: What has been your favorite piece of work?
Cy Harp: I would say the All Honesty pre album I put out a few months back. I really like that because a lot of those records were meant to be on the actual album, so I wrote them in a very deep manner. I wound up putting those songs on the mix tape because it was tough to get some of the samples cleared.
Isaac: How can fans-to-be gain access to your music? Do you have a website with sample songs or a demo CD?
Isaac: Is there anyone you'd like to acknowledge for offering financial or emotional support?
Cy Harp: Yes… my brothers, mom, dad all the family in general. All the fans and friends that have been beside me throughout everything I have been though also.
Isaac: Any last words?
Cy Harp: First off I want to say thank you for giving me the interview in the first place. I want to say what up to the Ladies of All Honesty (my promo team), C.H.A.D, Brook-D and everybody that supports me. Look out for two new CDs September 14th and Thanksgivings Day. Those two CDs will be put out by Shadyville DJs. One last thing, If your comfortable being yourself your 'ALL HONESTY"