It's an honor to speak with you today. You just recently hit the iTunes Hip-Hop/Rap Albums Chart at number 5 with your hit " No Payne No Gain". How does that feel?
I love the feeling! It felt amazing to sauté the streets like that! I feel like Young Goku in DragonballZ the first time he activated Super-Saiyan mode. It's lit, I’m walking' on sunshine!
What do you like most about making music?
I like the feeling that making music gives me. I love the creation process. When I make music, it puts me in my happy place. Especially when working with all the talented and genius people I got in my circle.
What inspired you to start playing and making music?
I got cut from varsity team basketball and one of the homies, @prod.c6ixx, got the demo version of FL Studio. It was the bootleg free version and when one door closed, another door opened. By the time the squad made it to the playoffs, they were bumpin my first beats and songs to the game. Jumping in different cyphers in LA and Leimert Park while also going to Da Poetry Lounge helped me step my bars up.
Describe your creative process when you write new music.
My process is there is no process. My style is like the “Tao Te Ching” aka ‘The Book of the Way’ - “Music in the soul can be heard by the universe.”
Who's your ideal musician to collaborate with and why?
I like working with creative geniuses. You know? The artists, producers, engineers, actors, painters, photographers, and dancers that got their own sauce and who are fearless are my favorite individuals to collaborate with. But an ideal musician would be Dr. Dre because he is one of the goats and our genius together would shock the world. Working with record-charting producers such as Sammy Issac, Smitty Soul, Kanobby, J Hawk, C6sixx, Mark W, Caydolf, TC The Creative, 2 Tall and Firas Quick was incredible.
Are there any musicians who inspire you? What qualities do you admire about them?
I grew up in Cali listening to Bay Area legends like Mac Dre, E-40, Too Short, The Jacka and the Mob Figaz. I learned a lot from Mob Jr., Shorty T, Sirr Jones and Big Freez who also put me up on game. I admire their hustle. Much respect to all the independent artists who made something happen! My favorite artists all speak their truth through music.
Which skills have you gained that help you perform effectively as a musician?
One of the greatest skills is to overcome your fear of failure. Once I went on the journey to learn the knowledge of self, I learned that I could master the universe once I have mastered myself. I’m always a work in progress but my greatest skill set is my persistence and charismatic spirit.
Which qualities do you think make a great musician?
The drive and determination to never give up or quit is a "mayjah" quality. The ability to keep going toward your goals and execute the vision is key. The ability to manifest is major. Constant improvement is what makes a great musician. The artists who align with the truth and express truth distinctly are the legends whose names we still remember and shoutout today.
What's the best piece of advice another musician ever gave you?
Shorty T (@Sthug84) told me, "It’s not about who you know, it’s about who knows you..."
What's next for you?
Making More music videos; creating more great music; sautéing more streets and connecting with more people.
Anyone you'd like to thank?
I want to thank everyone who believed in me, listened to my art, and downloaded any of my songs from way back in my school days at USC to "No Payne No Gain". I want to thank my family in Kansas City, my ancestors, and all my “souljahs” in California who have helped me on my journey. I want to thank anyone who ever paid me any attention.
Finally, how can people connect with you?
Link and connect with me on my website www.mayjahpayne.com or follow me on all social media @mayjahpayne !
