We recently had the chance to connect with TooBrightSHINE and have shared our conversation below.
TooBrightSHINE, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: Are you walking a path—or wandering?
I’ve been wandering all my life. I’m finally at a point where I have direction and I found myself. I no longer have any limits.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am simply an artist. I make dreams come true. I’m so much bigger than my accomplishments because I’m building a platform for artists to finally take control of their destiny . It is called DFW UP NOW and I’m looking for artists who want to build real economy. This will be the Black Wall Street they won’t be able to take down. But other than that I make a HUGE amount of music and I’m taking over the industry. Check me out on SoundCloud. High Life out now.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
I was an army veteran who served with an honorable discharge. Not a flashy vet like most of my comrades I had, but just did my job. My job was a weapon mechanic, but really it was whatever they told me to do. (Even if that’s picking up cigarette butts at midnight on a weekend or boring 24 hr duty). Even then I was still an artist and connecting with other artists while serving. I had a horrible studio set up in my barracks room. My First Sergeant did an inspection and asked me “who do you think you are?” I told him the best rapper alive. He’s actually no longer with us. (RIP SGM Isackson) Met my first producer Kharmatik and came out on SoundCloud as “Lil Bruh”. I think it’s horrible but some people still listen to it. (Yes it is still available if you want to hear beginning stages.)
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes. The pressures of an artist weighs a ton. Life can really suck if you focus on all the horrible things that’s going on in the world. Nevertheless, you got to keep it pushing and remember what you do it for. Life isn’t going to stop for sorrows so move accordingly. “That’s my only distinguishing quality about me is that I will never quit.” Just like the great Nipsey Hussle once said.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
I hate that everyone treat the music industry like it is the end all and be all of creativity. Why do I have to go to another person to produce generational wealth? I can build my own connections and relationships with having a good heart and being prompt on business. The industry has been destroying artists for long enough and we need to take a stand. Good music can be created from more genuine places and restore the world’s frequencies. Plus, the industry has major control issues. I like making music without anyone’s approval or say so and I’m going to keep it that way.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What do you think people will most misunderstand about your legacy?
I’m a pretty sporadic artist and I used to think that was a crutch, but im falling in love with exactly who I am. I’ll say before you listen to me, have an open mind. I create real hiphop vibes and I’ll switch it up and get on melodic. I call my melodic side Lofi R&B. Whether I rap, sing or just talk; my goal is to create the ultimate song. I know I have a lot to work on but I love the process. And will forever improve.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://li.sten.to/n1le9gls
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toobrightshine?igsh=MXB2cjA0YTlkYjJlbg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@toobrightshine9583?si=huqtKAw3XUlmb7iF
- Soundcloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/LpZzbvYF9V1J1h7ebm
