Karson.

Wisconsin-based artist Karson. is on his way to becoming a music sensation. He’s only 17-years-old, and yet has already released a plethora of music showcasing his talent. Surrounded by music from a young age, he picked up the skills to compliment his raw talent that would later help him express himself through music. His music is creative, emotional, and cathartic. His writing is extremely accessible and easy to connect with. When combined with melodic instrumentals, the sound is irresistible. His 2020 EP Collection. was a true display of his talent. He already has hundreds of monthly listeners, and his fanbase just seems to keep on growing. We recently spoke with Karson. about his favorite artists, his early introduction to music, and more!

How did you start making music?

I started writing songs sometime around 3rd grade. At that time, I was really interested in rap music because of my brothers playing old school rap at home or in the car. When we had writing class, all I would do is write little raps in my journal. Fast forward to 13-year-old me, I started learning production at one of my old friend’s houses. He had an iMac and would let me use it for GarageBand. I would also produce on my old iPod Touch I had gotten that Christmas.

Describe your style in three words for us.

I’d like to say I am a genre-less artist, but there is definitely a common theme. The three words I would use to describe my style would probably be: freeform, expressive, and dark.

Who’s your partner in a dream collab?

Definitely Kanye West or one of the guys from BROCKHAMPTON. They all have had the most impact and influence when it comes to how I make music. I always come back to their music when I need to center myself.

Which of your songs was your favorite to write and why?

“Babydoll” with Eric Ryan for sure. It was the first time I felt like I was really making music. It was exactly how I heard it in my head. Every new version made me so excited. It’s one of the best songs I have ever written. Eric Ryan added so much sauce to it too. He’s the first artist I had ever collaborated with so it being a new experience made it a lot more fun.

Where do you draw inspiration from when making music?

A lot of the time, I revisit some of my favorite albums like, “To Pimp A Butterfly, ye, If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late, GINGER, etc.” Sometimes I’ll just experience life and wait for something to come to me. It depends on the situation. I usually have a lot on my mind at all times, so whichever feels right in the moment, I’ll do that to clear my head.

What does Karson do in his free time?

I don’t do much actually. I don’t have a lot of friends in my area; most of the homies are in Canada. When I’m bored and not making music, it's either skateboarding, gaming, or hanging out with my girlfriend. Usual teenager stuff. I wish I had more to do but my town is super small. Hoping I can move out in the coming years.

Any future projects for fans to get excited about?

My song, “GROWTH” with Eric Ryan, is out now- it’s a song that I am very proud of! I’m trying to stock up on music right now to release in the fall, so I am very excited about that. I have a lot of cool music coming out soon.