NxG
Photo Credit: Don Carter
Philadelphia-native NxG only made his Spotify debut last year, but that hasn’t stopped him from earning nearly 500k streams. A combination of distinct artistry and lyricism is prevalent in all of his songs, as he introduces a different soundscape with every new release. His latest song, “On Top,” hit the streaming services on March 19th. “ [I’m] definitely feeling accomplished,” he said. “I made it over the summer when I was locking in like crazy. It’s a great feeling to see an idea conceived in my bedroom come to fruition as a full-blown record with a music video.” The artist makes what he describes as a “unique perspective on what’s been done before” – and after listening to his music, this take becomes clear. Songs like “ThatsNotMyBitch,” “Eyy Yeah,” and “Old Me" have clear influences from today’s top artists while maintaining his distinct style. We chatted with the up-and-comer about how he would describe his sound, who he owes his biggest thanks to, and more! Scroll down to read our full interview.
Hey NxG! First of all, congrats on the release of “On Top”! How are we feeling now that it’s finally out?
Definitely feeling accomplished. I made it over the summer when I was locking in like crazy. It’s a great feeling to see an idea conceived in my bedroom come to fruition as a full-blown record with a music video. Somewhat surreal, honestly.
Walk us through the inspiration for the track.
I was honestly manifesting. I was feeling as if blessings were coming my way - which was true - and wanted to encapsulate it in the song. I think that energy overflows in the track.
Were you going for anything different with the release?
Not really anything specifically different. I’ve been working on talking less, letting my work do the talking for me. Being less active on social media and more at the moment in real life. But yeah, just letting the work do the talking and me shutting up.
Do you have a favorite bar from the song?
Probably “New bitch, new wrist, new kicks, new shit”. That shit really came true. I spoke it into existence. The power of the pen is not to be underestimated.
What is a typical day in the studio like for you?
Well, it’s typically not the day. We usually get active pretty late, anywhere from 8-11 PM. Then we up until like 8 AM churning records out. When I’m on the road I’m recording with producers so they typically run beats until we hear some shit we all like. Then it flows naturally from there. If I’m at home, I sketch out my ideas first with melodies and then attach words to them.
How would you describe your music to a new listener?
I think that it’s a unique perspective on what’s been done before. Not saying that it’s something that’s already been done, but it definitely sounds familiar. I played piano for 10 years, violin for 8, taught me guitar and bass, each of which I played for about 5 years. I was in a choir for a bit, school orchestra too, and also have performed on Broadway. So the perspective I bring to my music is very well-rounded. It’s well informed.
Photo Credit: Don Carter
What do you enjoy most about making music?
First and foremost, I love that I can bring a sonic idea I have in my mind to life. I love how I can tell stories and draw people in that way. Moreover, I also love how my music affects people. That’s something I’m still getting used to, in all honesty. I love meeting new people but also really love my privacy; that’s the only child in me. Someone found my number the other day and kept FaceTiming me. That was some crazy shit. Definitely cool that someone felt moved by music enough to want to do that, but it was in a moment where I was definitely looking to be alone.
How have you been doing during the pandemic? Has it affected your musical process at all?
Honestly, the Pandemic was a Bandemic for me. It turned me into a beast. I think I’ve made 250+ records since last March. COVID isolated me and put me alone in my element.
You don’t seem to be too big on collabs, but if you were to team up with an artist on a song, who would that be and why?
I wouldn’t say that I’m not big on collabs. I love collaborating. I’m just very very picky about what records I want to put out. Dream artists I would want to work with are Frank Ocean, Pharrell, Uzi, and TyFontaine.
After three years in the music industry, what has been the best piece of advice that you’ve received?
Slow down, appreciate the moment because sometime in the future, you’ll look back on these moments and wish you could go back to them. That’s what everyone says to me. I have a problem with trying to rush. Not in a sloppy way, like I be overlooking shit, but in an “I want to be where I’ve always dreamed of being yesterday. Why am I not there yet?” I have to give myself more credit and slow down, I guess. Maybe not slow down, but definitely give me more credit.
What can be expected from NxG in 2021? When NxG makes it to LA, ___________.
I don’t want to say too much about what’s coming, but just stay tuned in to my Instagram @xgseason. And once I make to LA for good? I’m never coming home. I’m actually going out next month...