In the latest episode of Dumb Blonde, rapper Ekoh shares his remarkable journey from struggling in rehab to achieving viral success and charting alongside hip-hop giants like Eminem and Juice WRLD. Here are the key takeaways from the engaging conversation with host Bunnie.
Ekoh’s Musical Beginnings
- Early Passion for Music: Ekoh reveals that he developed a love for music at a young age, influenced by underground hip-hop and pop-punk genres. He initially distanced himself from mainstream rap, focusing instead on artists like Tupac, Tech N9ne, and Atmosphere.
- First Steps in Writing: He began by writing poetry and journaling, culminating in writing his first rap while in rehab at age 18, triggered by battles with addiction.
Overcoming Adversity
- Rehab Inspiration: Ekoh discusses how being placed into rehab was a turning point. Rather than resisting this step, he decided to embrace it, turning his pain into art and creativity.
- Turning Point: He openly shares the rocks bottom he faced before rehab—living on the streets, an ultimatum from law enforcement, and finally choosing rehabilitation over jail.
The Rise to Recognition
- Viral Fame: Ekoh attributes much of his growing fame to social media, especially TikTok, which became crucial for reaching new fans during the pandemic.
- Navigating Social Media: He emphasizes the importance of adapting to platforms like TikTok to connect with a broader audience and promote his music.
- Response to Success: He candidly acknowledges the pressure that comes with charting alongside major artists, expressing a mix of excitement and anxiety about meeting expectations.
Creative Process and Mental Health
- Art from Struggle: In the podcast, Ekoh discusses how his experiences with mental health influence his music. He jokes about the necessity of using creativity as an outlet for darker emotions, and how this duality enhances his artistic expression.
- Balancing Fame and Personal Struggles: He reflects on the complexities of maintaining sobriety in the music industry, pointing out that while he’s grateful, the challenge of fame can weigh heavily on mental well-being.
Touring and Future Plans
- Upcoming Tours: The episode reveals that Ekoh is planning extensive tours in 2021, with a new album set to release in July, followed by a fall tour. His excitement about connecting with fans through performances is palpable.
- Continued Output: He hints at a steady stream of new music and collaborations, expressing eagerness to keep evolving as an artist.
Final Thoughts
Ekoh's journey showcases the struggles and triumphs of a self-made artist pursuing his dreams amid adversity. With an upcoming album and tour on the horizon, he continues to harness his experiences to craft relatable and authentic music. For aspiring artists, his story is a testament to the power of resilience and creativity in overcoming obstacles.
Key Takeaways:
- Embrace Adversity: Use struggles as inspiration for creativity.
- Harness Social Media: Utilize platforms like TikTok for broader reach.
- Prioritize Mental Health: Recognize the challenges of fame and prioritize personal well-being.
- Stay Authentic: Continue evolving while staying true to your artistic identity.