While the struggle for survival can cause pain and hardship, it can also breed strength and character. Such was the case with Daze, lyricist and songwriter in Hip Hop, R&B and Soul. Growing up in the ‘system’ and moving from foster homes to boarding schools and detention facilities, Daze's musical talent flourished in the late 90's when he began to write songs as a way of releasing his emotional struggles related to his childhood experiences. In the summer of 2000, he stepped into the microphone booth for the first time with good friend and mentor 'D.O.' D.O. guided Daze through the ropes while he was working on the album ‘U Got Miilk’ with Miilk Bone (who released a single with Biggie Smalls). After learning structure and technique through practice, hard work and determination, Daze has never looked back. His hit single 'Smooth Operator' was released in 2013 and his new single ‘Running Man’ was released in May 2014. Alexis Adams recently caught up with this exciting new hip-hop artist to learn more about his unique story and plans for the future.

ALEXIS: When When did you first discover your love of music?
DAZE: The first time I realized I had a passion for music is when I was a little boy and I heard 'I Need Love' by LL Cool J. I used to stand in front of the mirror and rap his song like I was performing on stage.

ALEXIS: Your song is receiving a positive listener response on radio. What was your initial reaction when you first heard your song playing on radio?
DAZE: I was so excited.

ALEXIS: What was the inspiration behind your debut radio single?
DAZE: The inspiration behind my single 'Running Man' deals with my trials and tribulations in life and having to sacrifice a lot just to get where I am now with my music.

ALEXIS: Would you say that the mood of your other songs is in the same vein as your debut radio single?
DAZE: Yes, in a sense when it comes down to my originality, however each song I write is different based on the mood I’m in at that moment.

ALEXIS: How would you characterize yourself as a musician? (ex. Down-to-earth, serious, fun-loving...)
DAZE: I am outspoken, open-minded, fun-loving and outgoing.

ALEXIS: Did you come from a musical background? Are there other musicians in your family?
DAZE: Yes, my mom and dad used to sing for a gospel choir. My older brother use to rap but now he has his own recording studio where he engineers. So music does run in my blood.

ALEXIS: What do you find most rewarding about being a musician? What do you find most challenging?
DAZE: Most rewarding is making music that can change a person’s life for the better. Most challenging is not having lots of money because in order to succeed on your own, you need cash to stay afloat.

ALEXIS: Who are your role models in music?
DAZE: My role models in music are Russell Simmons, P Diddy, Jay Z and 50 cent to name a few because they all made nothing into something.

ALEXIS: Describe your best or most memorable performance.
DAZE: Most memorable performance is when I was performing for B.E.T. back in 2003 and I needed some dancers so these girls that where in the audience jumped on stage and started dancing to my song. Afterwards people came up to me asking for my autograph saying when I blow up they can say they were at one of my first shows.

ALEXIS: What advice would you give to young, aspiring musicians out there who are unsure and need guidance?
DAZE: My advice for aspiring musicians would be to never give up and just believe in yourself and the man upstairs (God). Also, be around people who will uplift your spirit and push you to succeed no matter what the circumstances may be in your life.

ALEXIS: Excellent! I look forward to hearing it. Thanks for taking time out to share your story with me. I wish you good luck and continued success!

http://www.dazethenomad.com
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