Since the tender age of thirteen, this rapper from Fort Lauderdale, Florida has been writing and spitting rhymes. Topknotch completed an album and mixtapes hosted by well-known DJ's (DJ Scream, DJ Smallz, DJ Purfiya) and has collaborated with numerous artists. Yet, to fans hearing his debut radio single 'Been Bout Money' for the first time, it might be tempting to mistake him for an overnight success. Perhaps it's Topknotch's polished image or his fresh fusion of old school heart with new school swag. Perhaps it's the fact that he effortlessly adapts to and rides any beat or tempo thrown his way. But contrary to what fans might think, Topknotch has been honing his craft for years and any success that he has recently acquired was earned the hard way. Lily Clark recently caught up with this fresh new artist to learn more about his story and plans for the future.

LILY: When When did you first discover your love of music?
TOPKNOTCH: As far back as I can remember. Growing up in Minnesota, my mom would have parties where she would play old school R&B such as Luther Vandross and Gerald Levert. And at that time my dad was a radio DJ in Arizona. This was when cassettes were cracking! He would always send me old school rap just to put me up on game and of course the latest hip hop joints that were HOT at that time!

LILY: Your song ‘Been Bout Money’ is receiving a positive listener response on radio. What was your initial reaction when you first heard your song playing on radio?
TOPKNOTCH: To keep it funky with you, it was a feeling that I can't even put in words. It's just surreal to actually hear myself being aired on radio.

LILY: What was the inspiration behind your debut radio single?
TOPKNOTCH: Everybody is ‘about their money.’ And everyone respects people who are ‘about their money,’ ya smell me?

LILY: Would you say that the mood of your other songs is in the same vein as your debut radio single?
TOPKNOTCH: Oh no. I like to switch things up. I have various types of songs. Even joints for the ladies that I'm about to drop that I can't wait for the world to hear.

LILY: How would you characterize yourself as a musician? (ex. Down-to-earth, serious, fun-loving...)
TOPKNOTCH: I would say for the most part, I would consider myself fun. I like to party and see people have a good time. But on the same note, I can also be serious and I take my music real serious too.

LILY: Did you come from a musical background? Are there other musicians in your family?
TOPKNOTCH: As far as musical background, both my parents loved music but neither one of them were musicians. My mom in particular just always kept music playing around the house.

LILY: What do you find most rewarding about being a musician? What do you find most challenging?
TOPKNOTCH: The most rewarding thing about being a musician is the freedom to speak my mind. The most challenging is getting noticed, being heard and getting people to believe in my vision.

LILY: Who are your role models in music?
TOPKNOTCH: Notorious B.I.G., Tupac, Jay Z, Nipsey Hussle, Snoop Dogg, The Lox, T.I., just to name a few.

LILY: Describe your best or most memorable performance.
TOPKNOTCH: LOL...wow...I'm about to take you back...It had to be back in 8th grade at a school dance. The DJ picks up the mic and asks if anyone in the crowd knows how to spit. At the time, no one knew me for rapping. Everyone knew me for playing sports and the girls loving me. I said to myself, ‘Forget it, I'ma jump on stage!’ Everyone looked at me all crazy and I just started rapping this verse I was working on and everyone went NUTS!! So I guess you can say, Topknotch Da Dapper Don was born in 8th grade!

LILY: Do you have a music video for your hit single? If so, what can you tell us about it?
TOPKNOTCH: Not right now. I'm working on it though. It should be coming soon, ya smell me?

LILY: Great! I look forward to hearing the new material. Thanks for taking time out to share your story with me. I wish you good luck and continued success!

http://www.reverbnation.com/topknotch

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