Washington, DC Native Sandman has been buzzing in the city streets at the top of 2020 with his newly released single Last Night. Catchy hook, killer beat and lyrics, he’s ready to “level up” and claim his deserved spot in the music industry.
Sandman uses music as a way to bring awareness to the many struggles faced in the inner city. Stories of trial and triumph, love and loss.. and past disappointment are topics close to home. Obstacles have brought Sandman to a place of humility and growth, and it is through the downs he’s learned to embrace the ups and gain wisdom that he now imparts on others. Despite the struggles and pitfalls that were meant to break him, Sandman has managed to be victorious, with unwavering determination to succeed, and a budding career destined to make him a household name.
FLT had the chance to chat with Sandman and get a look into his music/sound and plans for his growing career. We got a to find out just why he’s Up Next. :
What is the inspiration behind your sound? Bone Thugs -N-Harmony and Three 6 Mafia are the only artist whose music I purchased and didn’t download. I listened to nothing but them growing up. Other than that pain, struggle, family & legacy. I feel like my stories of all of the above can be used to help those in the same situation.
What separates you from other artist in your genre? Originality! I have my own sound. I see it as a merger of the classic Bone Thugs -N-Harmony and Three 6 Mafia sound I admired over the years, paired with my own flow, sound and creativity. Throughout the years I fell into my own wave.
What do you feel are some of the biggest misconceptions people have as it relates to working in the industry? Believing their music alone can get them the fame and stardom they want. This business is all about the industry and very little about the booth…
What has been one of the biggest challenges you’ve had to overcome since starting out in the business? Dumbing myself down. I learned the music business at the age of 14 and continued to educate myself to present day. Sometimes, knowing too much can be your downfall. I believe I turned down deals that I could’ve tweaked or finessed to get what I needed to gain recognition and grow. But knowing the business made me hesitant on a lot of things.
What are your top 3 tips you’d offer an Artist? Learn the business but be open minded to networking and building. Focus on your brand and creating a relationship with your audience. Constantly challenge those around you because you’re only as good as the 10 people you hang around daily.
What can we expect from Sandman in 2020.. any new initiatives ? You can expect at least one project “Lingo Pacino,” a few videos and more content than ever before. But most importantly, you can expect Sandman to start becoming an industry name. I’m in the process of signing a deal with DCTop20 and that will help cement my name in this culture.
Is there anyone you would like to work with in 2020? I’m going for a feature with Key Glock, Money Man, Lil Durk, No Cap, Moneybagg Yo, and whoever else I can connect with. But Key Glock is one of the main artists right now I am looking to work with.
Keep up with All Things Sandman and New Mafia Entertainment online at https://lnk.link/Sandmangotnext
Follow on all social platforms: @sandmangotnext
