Today we’d like to introduce you to Xzavier Natt.
Hi Xzavier, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
I originally began writing music in 2009. My songs started off as poems confessing my feelings to my crushes. A friend of mine convinced me to start rapping. I began to start working on my craft when I noticed people going crazy over the cafeteria freestyle. I would describe myself as an introvert, so seeing people’s reactions were amazing. In 2011 I recorded my first mixtape. The project was awful; honestly, I was still learning what my style was and trying to find my voice. I spent the next couple of years trying to perfect my craft. In 2017 I started doing local shows in the Houston area. After winning an open mic, I decided to grind harder. That same year I released a mixtape. In 2019 I decided I was going to learn how to engineer, just in case music didn’t work out for me. During 2017-2019 I opened for several larger artists including Lil Debbie, Bali Baby, and Z-Ro. I also landed a collab with Atlanta’s artist Scotty ATL. In 2021 I released my first album Rise & Grind: It’s My Time.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
This has def been a tough journey. Some of the challenges I faced along the way include releasing a ton of songs and not getting a ton of spins. I feel like lack of support is another obstacle I’ve faced. Staying motivated and consistent when things aren’t going according to plan. Music is very time-consuming, so sacrificing living life sometimes comes into play as well. Also, making music is expensive, the cost of recording and mixing is crazy.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My stage name is Zayfromthebay. I’m an independent artist from Baytown, Texas. Over the years, I’ve released 6 Episodes and one album. I’m known for giving music my all. Over the last 10 years, I’ve devoted my life to perfecting my craft. Some of my proudest moments include winning my round at an event called Indie Fest (a local show for artists); opening for Z-Ro was the biggest show I’ve done to date. Regularly I get my music played on a radio station in Miami called Excitement Radio. I think my love for music sets me apart from most. I’m a student of the game, and I pride myself on putting out my best work. My goal isn’t to make the catchiest song but the most relatable.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you.
Honestly, I don’t luck has played a role in my life. I believe my preparation and dedication have played a major part in my journey. Sometimes when recording, I may do 40 different takes and go with the first take I initially recorded. When I used to record at studios, I would spend at least 2 hours a day rehearsing my lyrics weeks before my session. I would also take the same approach when practicing to perform.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zayfromthebay/
- Youtube: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5yi0cW1CRGydrVtvVtCFCo
- SoundCloud: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/zayfromthebay/1172707177
