In this interview spotlight, I chat with Chicago based artist NeodotcoM about motivations, his latest release Derrick Rose, challenges and more.

NeodotcoM‘s music sits outside the box of what most people immediately think of when they hear the genre terms Hip Hop or Rap.

You can listen Derrick Rose below or on Soundcloud.

Connect with NeodotcoM on Twitter.

Where are you from and what style of music do you create? (In your own words, not necessarily in marketing terms or by popular genre classifications.)

I’m from the South Side of Chicago home to such players and musical greats as Sam Cooke, Quincy Jones and Kanye West to name a few. The style of music I create is technically Punk Rap but really its just Hip-Hop.

I’m doing the same thing my forefathers have done. Use the newest and freshest sounds to communicate universal truths.

What led you down this path of music and what motivates you to keep going?

I’m an eternal being of light at the beginning of time. It’s what I’m here to do.

How is this new release different than previous ones? Were you trying to accomplish anything specific?

In 2018 I’m releasing a mixtape EP and a full album. Derrick Rose was always on this project but his recent trials and tribulations made this feel right. I wanted him to see the video and hear the song and know whatever he does next he has been loved and his story is inspiring.

Name one or two challenges you face as an indie musician in this oversaturated, digital music age? How has technology helped you (since we know it does help)?

The lack of true a&r’s, gate keepers and quality control has changed the game. There was once a time musicians performed at such a high level you knew you couldn’t participate or compete. Now it’s like Reality TV where everyone feels they can get ableton with the keyboard, an interface and a mic and they are an overnight star.

The lack of true a&r’s, gate keepers and quality control means an artist also has more power and command over the direction of their career. They are also freed from regional politics and sounds because they can share a song across the world faster than they can drive to the otherside of town.

Where is the best place to connect with you online and discover more music?

This is just my 3rd single so It’s all on Soundcloud right now. I have my domain name but I feel people use social media more than anything so Facebook and instagram. My first single Nose Bone is also on Tidal, Apple, Spotify etc.

Anything else before we sign off?

Thank you guys so much for this opportunity to share my music to the world. It’s truly an honor and a blessing. Much about what you hear regarding Chicago in the Media is Propoganda so you don’t know the truth and recognize the brilliance and beauty of the city and the communities. This is the return of the Golden Age of Hip-Hop.

Also my music is subtly complex and I used lots of entendres so each line may have multiple meanings. It’s a rubix cube that’s subtly complex and multi dimensional.