Interview With Ysak Empriss IG @YsakEmpriss

1 – Let’s rewind to the genesis. Was there a specific moment, a song, an artist, or maybe even a feeling that sparked your journey into music?”

(This is more evocative and invites a story.) Tupac -dear mama sparked my journey into music. Shaping me to create a true life story song named “Be Strongg” when I was called Madam Empriss. Then I jumped off the porch ever since. You Should Already Know!!!!

2 – Who are your biggest musical influences?

Tupac Shakur, Notorious B.I.G, Bob Marley, Meek Mill, J.Cole, Ojays, Pattie labelle, Otis Redding, Al Green, Missy Elliott, Timberland, P.diddy, DJ khaled, Uncle Luke, Truck Daddy, Trina, Kendrick Lamar, Wale, Beyonce, Jay Z, Usher, Anthony Q, Anthony Hamilton, Mariah Carey, Monica , Latto, Megan the stallion, Nicki M., Cardi B, Remy Ma ,Mia from master p crew. Master P, The Weekend, Gerald lavert. FieldMob,Ole E & 2 Brains from Albany ga, Evanescence, Jelly roll, teddy swims, James Arthur, James bay, Haley, Pink, Ed Sheeran, Sam Smith and many more.

3 – Beyond the usual suspects, who are some of the lesser-known or perhaps unexpected musical figures who have truly shaped your sound and approach?

Old school music helps me resonate with the audience through storytelling, ups and down emotions like the temptations, the five heart beats, Prince is one of the most musical figures I adore.

4 – our stage name is [YSAK EMPRISS ] – it’s intriguing! What’s the story behind it?

Is there a hidden meaning, a personal connection, or a funny anecdote there? YSAK is an acronym for You Should Already Know. The acronym derived from a personal realness connection from one of my past singles Y.S.A.K, off my creative hook “IF IT DONT MAKE CENTS,IT DONT MAKE A DOLLAR.THEN IT DONT MAKE SENSE FOR ME TO HOLLA, You Should Already Know “.

5 – “If you were to paint a sonic picture of your music, what colors, textures, and emotions would be on that canvas?

How would you describe your unique musical style in a way that goes beyond genre labels? It Would be a mix emotions canvas with  different colors. Some radiant colors, some dark colors. My unique style is very diverse. I can fit into Pop, rap, hip hop. If I could sing it would be R&B as well lol.

6 – Take us into your creative sanctuary. What does your writing and recording process feel like?

Is it a solitary journey, a collaborative explosion, or something in between? Walk us through the emotions and energy involved? My solitary journey consists of emotional and resonating songs with message in them. some tells a story, some helps you realize and gives you understanding. A collaborative explosion consists of club bangers and get you up N going music.

7 – Music has the power to move and inspire. What conversations do you hope to spark with your music?

What core message or feeling do you want listeners to walk away with? UNDERSTANDING. The power to move and inspire my fam to know they are not alone. We learn daily.

8 – Let’s dive into your latest project [Album/Project Name]. What was the driving force behind this creation?

What themes did you explore, and what makes this project stand out from your previous work? Latest project name is Go low Remix,hit single. I studied music industries/artists are releasing. Sound, quality and etc. I knew from industry music what needed to be done and it came to me like someone flipped a switch.

9 – The creative journey isn’t always smooth. What’s the biggest hurdle you face when bringing your musical visions to life, and how do you navigate those challenges?

Getting someone else to believe and see your visions. If you don’t believe in yourself the people you are trying to get to believe or support you will be hesitant. Also, when others pray on your downfall hoping you fail, yet I have accomplished the opposite.

10 – Criticism is part of the game. How do you personally process feedback, both positive and negative?

Is it fuel, a filter, or something you try to tune out entirely? A filter with something I try to tune out entirely because they are keyboard killers. Individuals looking to kill your character, your legacy or foundation you have built.

11 – Every artist faces roadblocks on their path. Can you share a pivotal moment where you faced a significant obstacle in your musical journey, and what did you learn from overcoming it?

I learned to put me first, believe in me first like I believe in the individuals my label tried to bring into the industry. I placed my music on hold for four years with loosing thousands of dollars. If I would have known what I know now I will betted on me a long time ago

12 – Let’s dream big for a moment. If you could collaborate with any artist, living or not, who would be at the top of your list and why? What kind of magic do you think you could create together?

Carbi b, Megan the stallion, latto, glo rilla, and Nicki manij. I’m diverse with the ear for music. I can hear an artist voice on a track and knows which artist don’t belong on the track, No diss.

13 – Creative blocks are a universal struggle. Can you recall a time when you hit a wall creatively, and what unconventional or surprising methods did you use to break through and reignite your inspiration?

When I started to believe in myself more fireworks exploded.

14 – Looking back on your journey so far, what moment or achievement makes you feel the most proud and fulfilled as a musician?

What resonated deeply with you? Knowing I reached back to artists to put them on while still giving out knowledge till this day.

15 – Every place has its own rhythm. How has your hometown and community shaped your sound, your stories, and your perspective as an artist? Are there specific sounds or experiences that are woven into your music?

I combined Miami and ga style together a lil. When people I showed love/support to wasn’t giving it in return when my time came it molded me to go harder and around them to a broader audience. Mission accomplished.

16 – If you could go back and whisper some words of wisdom to your younger, aspiring artist self, what would you say?

What’s the most crucial piece of advice you’d offer to those just starting out? I WOULD TELL MY YOUNGER SELF SHE MADE IT…KEEP YOUR HEAD UP,BETTER DAYS ARE COMING! “Only A try beats a fail”.

17 – When you step away from the studio and the stage, what recharges your creative batteries?

What passions or hobbies do you indulge in to find balance and inspiration outside of music? To feel that warmth crowd embrace walking on stage. The love is overwhelming like a drug.making sure I attend my doctor appointments to keep my health stable to be able to do what is needed.

18 – The music industry is a complex landscape. What aspects of it do you truly appreciate and find rewarding, and conversely, what are some of the frustrations or challenges you’ve encountered?

I didn’t know it was so much you had to do to be honest when releasing through a major platform. But the rewards are greater.

19 – Your fans are the heartbeat of your musical journey. How do you cultivate that connection and create a community around your music? What does that relationship mean to you?

I let my fans know they are not fans they are my fam “ forever always mended”.

20 – Your musical journey is a constant education. What’s been the most profound lesson you’ve learned so far, something that has truly shaped your approach as an artist and as a person?

Trusting my instincts/ gut feelings. Everyone is not who they pretend to be or say they are. It’s wolf in sheep clothing in the industry. You have to be careful who you work with/come across.

21 – Take us back to a performance that’s etched in your memory. What made it so unforgettable?

Was it the energy of the crowd, a personal breakthrough, or something unexpected that happened on stage? A performance I did in Germany at club divas while I was in the military. Not knowing how the crowd would react or what they were gonna do had me nervous. The way the crowd reacted to my stage presence, music and etc made me ecstatic because they listened to both songs I performed and gave great crowd feedback I will never forget.

22 – Looking ahead, what’s on the horizon for you?

What are your aspirations, your dreams, and what exciting projects can fans anticipate in the near future? Learning what my fam enjoy without making it sound the same, yet better ,new and creative. Sometimes I don’t know what ima do until it hits me.

23 – Stepping onto the stage is a unique experience. What’s the biggest challenge you navigate as a performer, and how do you overcome it to deliver a powerful show?

I allow authenticity to take its course. When I’m live it’s different from practice. I give more energy with interactions from the crowd. I let go and let GOD.

24 – In your opinion, what’s the most indispensable quality for an artist striving for success in today’s music world?

Is it resilience, creativity, authenticity, or something else entirely? Resilience brings a die hard drive, creativity opens the doors for open minded ideas beyond present day at times. While digging back into time adding pieces creating a masterpiece. Authenticity brands who you are as an artist with the audience knowing what you deliver reflects your brand/image.

25 – The music industry can be demanding. What keeps your fire burning?

How do you stay motivated and laser-focused on your goals, especially when faced with challenges? I think it’s me, just knowing I can hold my position in this industry keeps me at bay. My don’t chase trend I focus on what’s next or better for me.

26 – Do you have a particular song or project in your discography that feels especially close to your heart?

What’s the story behind it, and why does it resonate so deeply with you? Be strongg is more personal. I didn’t wanna release it because I didn’t want people to judge my parents so I rewrote it from third person point of view as if I was telling someone else’s story when it’s my own true life story.

27 – Artists often reflect and shape society. What do you believe is the role of an artist in the world today?

Do you see yourself as a storyteller, a commentator, a healer, or something else entirely? I am many things, storyteller, healer, leader, teacher, relater, and an all around human whom have flaws myself yet know and have been through and seen others experiences to help/relate to my audience/individuals.

28 –  Touring is a whirlwind experience. What are the highs and lows of life on the road for you?

What do you love most about touring, and what aspects do you find the most challenging? Getting on the planes when it’s bad weather with turbulence. First thing comes to mind is final destination and la bamba. Different cities & states live differently. New York is nice but the hotels need to do better. I don’t do hotel’s with 75%-90% bad reviews.  I always check the reviews because photos lie.

29 – What exciting surprises or evolutions can your fans anticipate from you in the future?

What new sounds, themes, or directions are you eager to explore? I’m eager to explore new music/beats sounds, no stolen sounds or lyrics from unheard artists. Authentic ideas and creativity. It starts with vision.

30- For fans who want to stay connected and follow your journey, where can they find you online and keep up with your latest news and music? follow me on 

FB @ysakempriss @ucarecords

IG @ysakempriss

IG @officialucarecords

Spotify @ysakempriss

YT @ysakempriss

YT @ucavevo