ICtheNOIZ Interview

What inspired you to start creating music? How long have you been creating music?

I've been creating music for around 10 years. I started as an artist originally, but I began producing because there weren't many producers in the Memphis area, and the ones that were here were overcharging. So, I decided to do it myself and fell in love with the background role of production. But now, I'm interested in getting back into the spotlight as an artist. Nowadays, producers are becoming artists too, like Metro Boomin releasing their own projects. So, I'm trying to take a similar route for myself.

Have you had any placements and with whom have you had these placements?

I've had some placements mostly underground with producer friends from different places like Boston, Atlanta, and Canada. Nothing notable yet, but in the past two to three years, I've expanded my focus globally through collaborations on platforms like Clubhouse when it first launched. It allowed me to network with all types of people.

What samples do you normally like using when creating your own beats?

Most of the time, I make my own samples. I love traveling with my own samples and turning them into beats. I was inspired by the crate-digging movement and chopping up sounds, influenced by artists like Just Blaze. It also helps to avoid paying excessive royalties. I find a happy medium by making vintage-sounding samples and chopping them up myself. If I'm not making them, I collaborate with producer friends from all over the nation.

What vibe were you trying to achieve with this sound pack?

It's really hard to describe the feeling. When I start making something, I don't usually have a specific goal in mind. I just go with the flow and build on ideas until it turns out the way I want it. Sometimes I have to remove elements if I overdo it. But overall, it's about capturing a feeling and challenging the listener to spark their creativity and innovation. I want to help them reach their next level of creativity.

How do you see other creators using this pack? And Do you have any tips for creators using this sample pack?

Since I make the samples myself and use them too, my favorite approach is chopping them up. Some producers directly use the samples and create a drum loop, but I prefer using tools like Serato Sample or Fruity Slicer. I play the keys, get a vibe, and transform the original sample into something new. It allows me to build on the idea. But ultimately, it's up to the producers to choose what works best for them.

What piece of advice would you give to upcoming creators?

It's a marathon, not a sprint, as Nipsey said. Keep your head down and start working. People will say a lot of things, and what you expect might not always work out. So, keep working and moving forward. It's like fishing with my grandparents in the South. When I focus too much on catching a fish, it won't bite. But when I'm doing something else and not paying attention, that's when it happens. So, my advice is to keep pushing and not get frustrated. Things don't always happen on your timeline.

Who are your top three producers of all time?

Quincy Jones, Timbaland, and Metro Boomin.

What's your dream collaboration?

I would love to collaborate with Hans Zimmer.

Interview by Sean P. Jones

You can check out ICtheNOIZ's sample pack here.