Today we’d like to introduce you to Darius the Barbarian.
Hi Darius, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Breaking into any industry being black and gay comes with obstacles. I was on my second year of pre-med school when I decided I was going to chase my dreams. I was ready to give it all up. Events led me moving to NYC where the “find yourself” journey started for me. Believe it or not, I was booed off stage in middle school for trying to rap at a pep rally. They wasn’t ready for me then, but the world is ready for me now. When I first started making music, my first lesson was rap is a crafted art form. It comes in many styles, shapes and sizes. This was the school I’m supposed to be in, and it gives me the biggest drive. I hustled really hard. Learning the ropes of taking this game serious. I met people who believed in me, and they gave me opportunities that fueled doing what I love. An Instagram message can go far. I’m talking far far. Somewhere that’ll reveal heights you could never dream of imagining. My first major project was with CherrieP and Philthtrax. I sampled a remix of his song (thinking he was dead), he liked it and we connected instantly. That’s how ‘On Screen’ was made in his studio in Canada.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Not as smooth as you think. But that’s how this works. You often ask yourself, “how much would I sacrifice to get there” and your stuck in between fear and uncertainty, that’s the internal battle. But the dream is much bigger than this. Struggle builds character, and character makes people.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My name is Darius the Barbarian and I musician and Public figure. I specialize in creating large ferocious rap lyrics over creative music direction while gracing magazine covers representing big black gay magic. I’m known for being the newest hot addition in Ghetto tech and Hip-hop, creating hits like ‘Edgar Allen Hoe’ and ‘On Screen’. I’m mostly proud of continuing my career in this industry as myself with pure authenticity. Writing all of my own raps and narratives while maintaining a strong sense of self. What sets me apart from others is the musical direction. Being able to bring life to a track creating “new eras” in different genres with it all contexturized with Darius the Barbarian. Being able to be the one who takes charge and creates the energy you need. Bold, wet, and juicy.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
My most important lesson is to not let personal feelings get in the way of making art. The project is the bigger picture than the feelings. Value yourself.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dariusthebarbarian/
- Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/dariusbarbarian?lang=en
- SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.app.goo.gl/u5WvNTAUcA2TiKyX8
Image Credits:
Photographer: Choi Wanchi @choi_Wanchi Stylist: Sequine Lee @sequine Makeup: Mikayla Smith @visagebymikayla
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