Give us some background info as to who you are.
Well, my name is Dionte but I go by the name of Young K.I.N.G. I’m originally from Mansfield, Ohio, but I moved to Virginia Beach, VA when I was 10. I’ve always had a love for music as well as a unique ability to express myself, so naturally I began to write music. I’ve been an artist/songwriter for almost 2 years now and it just feels like this is what I’ve been put here to do.
What is the significance of your name?
K.I.N.G. is actually an acronym for (Knowledgeable Individual whose Notably Gifted). Throughout my life many people close to me have called me “King”, so the name just stuck around when I began to make my transition to becoming an artist.
Who is your target market?
My target market is the audience of people who believe that Hip-Hop is dead. That by listening to my music and hearing the originality and the substance in it, they will be moved to understand that the art of hip-hop is not dead, and that if it was, I’m here to resurrect it! People of all ages, all walks of life. I’ll show them #HipHopLives. They’ll see!
What is your USP? (Unique Selling Proposition) and what sets you apart from other Hip Hop artists?
What sets me apart from other artist is my originality and my willingness to be who I am and express myself how I feel, without fear. The fact that I will not conform to the “cookie-cutter” way of “artistry” these days is also something that sets me apart. I am not interested in being anyone other than who I am, and that’s something I can’t say for many artist, many people in general. Also the fact I can be completely honest in my music and still make people nod their heads and stand to their feet.
What single or project are you currently pushing?
I am currently pushing my most recent body of work “Walk With A King”. Released May 2014. It is a 14-track mixtape that oozes with originality, exceptional lyricism, lyrical content, as well as amazing storytelling. Since being released, Walk With A King has received great reviews from many people all over the country. Check it out for yourself, it’s available for free download now at (young-king.bandcamp.com)
What is the philosophy by which you live by?
My best friend directed my attention to a bible verse not too long ago, and it has molded my life ever since. It says (paraphrasing): “If you are faithful over a few things, God will make you rule over many things.” (Matthew 25:23). As an artist, I’ve been tempted to throw in the towel on multiple occasions, but when I look at my life and I realize that I’ve been blessed with a gift, a talent, a vision, I’m reminded to stay on course, knowing that one day God will allow me to rule over many things because I’ve been faithful in what He’s given me thus far.
Which artists have inspired you?
I’ve been inspired by artist such as Tupac, Jay-Z, Kanye West, Lauryn Hill, Eminem. Lyrical artists, as well as artists who have sustained longevity in the music business.
Who does your production?
I’ve recorded over beats from various producers from all over the country, as well as Canada. As far as the recording, mixing, and mastering of my music, my engineer Jerry “Bless” Martin handles it all at Soundscape Pro Studios. Virginia Beach, VA.
What is your opinion of the current state of the music industry?
In my opinion, the music industry is too commercial these days. Many artists make music with no substance, no subject, no truth, and no talent! However, the music industry feeds into it. I understand it’s a business, but I also feel as if there aren’t many people in the music industry today who are set up to obtain longevity.
If you can change one thing about the music industry what would it be and why?
If I could change one thing about the music industry, it would be less about politics and more about actual talent. There are very talented artist out here, but without the “publicity stunts”, the games, the gimmicks, many will fly under the radar. If it were up to me, talent would always win.
Are there any singers that you would like to collaborate with in the future?
I would love to collaborate with Jazmine Sullivan, John Legend, Chris Brown, and of course the pied piper R. Kelly, to name a few. Mainly anyone that’s willing to work with me and make timeless music.
What producer would you like to collaborate with in the future?
I’d like to work with Kanye of course, 40, Timbaland, Dre.
What is your favorite part of your live show? How has it evolved?
My favorite part of my live show is when it’s over and people come up and tell me how much they enjoyed it. The opportunity to create new fans as well as interact with my existing supporters is something I always look forward to.
What is your LP going to be like?
My LP is going to be another level of creativity that I’ve not explored yet. Great storytelling, overall positive vibes, it will be something people can relate to for sure.
What is your website?
My website for the time being is young-king.bandcamp.com, my official website is under construction and will be available soon.
Any final words for the people.
I just want to thank everyone for taking this time to get to know a little bit more about me. I hope you’ve enjoyed this interview as much as I have. I’d like to hear from you sometime if possible, you can reach me here:
Follow me on Twitter: @KingLikely
Follow me on Instagram: d_likely
Like me on Facebook: youngKINGmusic
E-mail me: dlikelymusic@gmail.com
