Interview
Meet “Rocco Lupo” The Creator of the New Genre of Music Called “Funky Pop”
Can you tell us a little bit about your background and how you got into music?
Well, I got into music by my dad playing these songs that are from the 70s, 80s, and 90s just when I was 3 years old, and from that point on I always loved music and especially the older songs! but my biggest influence was always Teddy Riley and Michael Jackson.
How would you describe your sound and your musical influences?
I’d say my sound is “Funky Pop” but I have an old-school vibe like Smokey Robinson, Teddy Riley and Michael Jackson.
What can fans expect from your upcoming album?
They should expect to have fee-good sounds like back in the day. Funky pop has its own sound with a touch of new jack swing. I intend on giving everyone something new and funky they can vibe to.
Can you talk about your songwriting process and how you come up with your lyrics?
My song writing process really comes from the man above and just the beauty of earth creatures and the kids because when you look at the younger kids you see joy and happiness and just a pure soul that comes from God. When I start singing, all of my friends love my music, it makes them happy and makes them want to dance.
What has been your favorite moment or performance in your music career so far?
Well I have not done many performances yet but I am working with some of the greatest people in the industry. It is all so surreal, just a dream come true.
What are your goals for the future of your music career?
My goal in the future is to be one of the best and to inspire people to follow their dreams.
Richmond Indiana native & indie Hip Hop artist Sharoyce aka Da WOAT delivers his new record “WOAT Inferno.” The single out now on all platforms is produced by and features A-F-R-0. Over classic cuts and scratches and a chilling backdrop, Sharoyce proclaims his stake in the industry. A catchy hook solidifies his lyrical message and invigorating drive. Sharoyce shows off his ability to offer music that both old and new schools of Hip Hop can head-nod to. Check out the interview below where he chops it up about the single, working with A-F-R-O, the Hip Hop scene in Indiana, and much more.
Stream “WOAT Inferno” on preferred platforms https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/sharoyceantwan/woat-inferno-feat-a-f-r-o
In the interview below, the Richmond, Indiana native chops it up below about the record, linking with A-F-R-O, upcoming events, and more.
MJ: Before we jump right into your brand-new hit single “WOAT Inferno” introduce yourself to those who might not be familiar (shame on them).
Sharoyce: Tis all good. I’m still a baby out here. I’m Sharoyce a.k.a Da WOAT (acronym for “Wackest of All Time”). I’m trying to peddle my garbage to the masses one track at a time.
MJ: You are based out of Richmond, Indiana. Tell us about the Hip Hop scene there, I know each coast or city has its own flow and mantra.
Sharoyce: Richmond is a small community with roughly about 34,000 people in it. Everyone kind of knows everyone, so the communal rhythm is like that of the Heaven’s Gate cult. I like the fact that the cost of living is so cheap, but the Hip Hop scene is non-existent.
MJ: You’re not an up-and-coming artist, you are seasoned. Talk about that progression in your career.
Sharoyce: It’s been pretty much a trial-by-error journey since I started jotting lines back in 2003. I bought a little Pro Tools set up back in 2009, where I cut my teeth on the ins and outs of the DAW. In 2012, I started to book sessions at professional studios. It took me some time, but I gradually learned how to construct a record over the years, but I’m still garbage.
MJ: Let’s get down to the new single. Take us through the process from idea to creation to production to final canvas.
Sharoyce: I’d been listening to A-F-R-O since I caught wind of him back in 2014. The fact that one of the best rappers to ever grace the mic took him under his wing instantly sold me on the young guy. Over the years, I’d been reaching out to some of my favorite MCs for features and I decided to hit him up on IG. He showed love on the production (w/scratches) and he even laid a verse down for me. I swiftly laid my mumble rap down and sent the session files over to my engineer.
MJ: Some Hip Hop legends coin A-F-R-O as an indie G.O.A.T., do you concur?
Sharoyce: For a legend, he’s humble. All I had to do was reach out to him on social media. I gave him his flowers and we proceeded to get the work done. He sent me back the verse in less than a few hours.
MJ: What are your expectations for the single, and what can fans expect?
Sharoyce: I just want the fans to know that even a low-tier amateur such as myself isn’t afraid to step on the track with the greatest. I expect to be crowned the worst to do it after they hear this one.
MJ: Is the single taken from a released project or one that is forthcoming? Will there be an upcoming video for the single?
Sharoyce: I have no plans of releasing an album anytime soon. A video isn’t totally out of the question, but for now, there are no plans for that either.
MJ: Where can fans and audiences catch you this summer? Are any performances or events, or collaborations in the works?
Sharoyce: They’ll be able to catch me at open mics and events within the area. I have upcoming collaborations with Big Rube (Dungeon Family/Society of Soul), Mark Battles, T-Rell (Empire), Honey-B-Sweet, Sadzilla, Rx The Rapper, and many others. I’d like to work with Elzhi and Kool Keith as well, so I’m working on lining those two up too.
MJ: Before we wrap up, can you share three essential gems you live by to ensure your success continues to move forward?
Sharoyce: Never be quick to modify your art due to criticism, drink lots of water, and don’t fall behind on child support because they’re locking n*ggas up for that.
MJ: Is there anything else you want to share with the world?
Sharoyce: Sharoyce is WOAT. You Betta know it, family. I’ll be dropping new music on Bandcamp soon and you can be on the Lookout for Ghostface Monkeypaw w/ me and Copywrite, as well as RhymeTyme Freestyle w/ Houston’s Viper The Rapper.
Stream “WOAT Inferno” on Bandcamp and preferred platforms
https://sharoyceantwan.bandcamp.com/track/woat-inferno-feat-a-f-r-o
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/sharoyceantwan/woat-inferno-feat-a-f-r-o
Connect with Sharoyce DA WOAT below
https://www.instagram.com/sharoyce_
https://twitter.com/sharoyceantwan
https://www.tiktok.com/@shinigamishae
https://m.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092471108026
Luminess Beats is far from done, proving his success as an independent producer in the music industry. Luminess Beats said that he isn’t after the clout or money, but he is more after the respect and legacy he can leave for the younger generation coming up under him. He is simply a go-getter and a dream chaser fighting to be successful by any means necessary. Luminess Beats knows what it takes to make it in the industry and definitely has what it takes. He has many new projects in the works and he cannot wait to show them to his supporters. He always makes sure to give credit where due, which separates him from most producers in the industry today.
Luminess Beats has started his producer journey by networking with individuals on different social platforms. He is staying busy and being published nationwide in articles. From magazines to news sites, he is taking over the industry day by day and making it look very easy. Luminess Beats is on the path to success and he’s never going to look back. Be sure to follow Luminess Beats on all social media platforms and be on the lookout for new beats coming very soon. You don’t want to miss out on anything he’s putting together or releasing, because he’s on a true roll to be the best, next up producer!
Greg DiNero is one of the Tri-State area’s hottest Dj/Producers. His roots begin from the early age of just seven when his dad bought him his first turntable. His drive and dedication, to not only advance his career, but to also give back to the culture is what has earned him his many notable accomplishments at such a young age of just twenty seven.
These accomplishments include Landing two radio residencies at age 22 on B98.5 and Non Fiction Radio, working with artists like Stitches, Famous Dex, Sean Kingston, NBA Youngboy, Warhol.ss, 2Milly, producing audio for a PUMA Commercial and racking up a whopping one hundred million plus views on Youtube and Spotify for his production. After signing a management deal in 2018 with “LOUIE KNOWS”, an affiliate of Atlantic Records, Rich Forever Gang, and 300 Ent. Greg continues to work hard toward his goals.
Greg DiNero works hard to maintain a friendly reputation amongst his peers and in the Tri-State music scene.
Learn More about Greg
Where are you from?
I am from the Jersey Shore! Toms River NJ, there is no place like it!!
Why did you first start making music?
When I was young, like 7, my dad brought me to Atlantic City. I saw a dj cutting it up on turntables for the first time, so that Christmas I got turntables. Fell in love with djing. When I was in high school I used to dj “Teen Nights” basically night clubs would have nights where the party was for age 13-18. While djing the teen nights I realized I was pretty much just promoting other peoples music, so I wanted to make
my own. Thats what start my production, probably around age 18.
Talk me through your creative process.
I try not to have a process.. with music its really just about creating a vibe in the studio, or in your headphones and going with that vibe. Most of the time when you try to over think it, nothing good comes from it. So my creative process is pretty much creating a solid vibe in the studio.
Who would you say inspired you the most?
Scott Storch has always my idol. I grew up listening to his production! It was impossible not to, the guy dominated the producer world! As I got older I really dug deep into his story and how much of a work horse he was! Hes so inspiring. I have actually gotten the chance to link up with him a few times! Amazingly humble dude too!
Whats the best advice you received?
Nothing is handed to you, it doesnt happen over night, trust the process. Those are some of the notable pieces of advice I have gotten. Its all true its every man for themselves out here and it takes a LOT OF WORK and A LOT OF TIME!
How would you describe the music that you create?
Production placement wise, rap, all styles of rap. As far as my personal projects, anything that would go crazy in the club while djing. Dancehall, pop, rap. My main focus for my personal projects is to make a fun record I can play out.
What would you have done differently if you knew what you knew now?
I wouldve focused harder, not paid women any attention, kept my circle real tight and locked in on my goals. When i was younger I was too worried about being lit and hooking up and clout chasing… I am locked in now I just wish I was sooner.
Whats the most important show you have played to date?
Its a three way tie. The first time playing at Harrahs Pool Bar in Atlantic City was awesome because I used to dream about playing there when I was a teenager. The first time on the radio was obviously special. And the first time in LA. They are all special in their own way
If you could change anything about the industry what would it be?
TALENT OVER CLOUT! Stop making talentless viral weirdos be famous rappers!!!!
What do you want your legacy to be? How do you want to be remembered?
I want to be remembered as the man that can do it all! I am a family man, I want to be the kickass dad to my sons but also the dj who’s the life of the party and makes hit records!
FOLLOW GREG ON SOCIAL MEDIA
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