Episodes

  • In this enriching conversation, Shyheim Nwadiei

    , a hip-hop neo-soul artist, takes us through his journey of self-discovery and artistic evolution. He emphasizes the power of storytelling in his music and the importance of creating a world that resonates with listeners. Shaheem is eager to explore collaborations across various genres, broadening his musical horizons while staying true to his roots.

    Shyheim Nwadiei delves into the phases of his identity and the pivotal role that visual elements play in his music. Cultural influences have left a significant mark on his artistry, shaping how he connects with his audience on a relatable level. His goal is to reach a broader audience without losing the essence of his background and experiences.

    Joined by Aura, the dialogue explores multiple facets of music creation and talent discovery. They highlight the importance of collaborations in the creative industry, offering insights into opportunities for networking and new projects, such as children's books and acting. Shyheim speaks of his diverse interests, encompassing various film genres, and how the color metaphorically representing his music adds depth to his artistic expression.

    The conversation transitions into discussions on music distribution and the changing landscape of platforms available for artists. Reflecting on standout songs and the creative processes behind them, Shyheim shares personal experiences, including childhood challenges and the necessity of acknowledging one's inner child.

    Throughout, Shyheim offers insights into themes of identity, ancestry, and personal growth. He underscores the significance of audience engagement and hints at future collaborations, all driven by the profound need for connection through music.

  • In this enlightening episode of Aura-Genz, host Aura engages with the talented artist Picassbro, who recounts his inspiring evolution from a casual hobbyist to a dedicated creator. The conversation dives into the emotional connections that art fosters, exploring how music serves as a catalyst for creativity and underscoring the vital role resilience plays when faced with negativity.

    Picassbro opens up about the profound impact of his personal experiences and mental health on his artistic expression, highlighting the significance of human creativity in an era increasingly overtaken by AI. His reflections lead to a poignant conclusion, emphasizing the unwavering support he receives from loved ones throughout his artistic journey.

    As the dialogue unfolds, Picassbro shares intimate insights into his personal life, illustrating the deep bonds he shares with his fiancée and her children. He reflects on how family shapes his art, adding layers of meaning and emotional depth. The discussion shifts to his artistic path, candidly addressing the hurdles he faces in selling his artwork and the important emotional connections he cultivates with buyers. He emphasizes that trust is paramount in the art world, expressing a strong desire for collaboration with fellow artists to foster a supportive community.

    Picassbro elaborates on his creative process and the various mediums he explores, highlighting the emotional narratives embedded within his pieces. His inspirations flow through the conversation as he articulates the importance of community and the connections that fuel the creative spirit.

    Moreover, they discuss the potential for his art to resonate on a global scale, touching on the universal themes that underpin his work and the significance of emotional resonance in art. Picassbro's passion for his craft radiates throughout the episode, as he shares his excitement for upcoming projects and reflects on the profound impact he hopes his work will have on others.

    This episode serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative role of art, the human experiences that shape it, and the vital connections that bind us all as creatives.

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  • In this enlightening conversation, Aura and JWADI delve into the interwoven themes of creativity, recovery, and the unwavering dedication needed to pursue a career in music. JWADI shares his compelling personal story of overcoming addiction and rekindling his passion for music, despite the challenges of starting anew in his 40s. This discussion highlights the pivotal role of discipline in the creative process and examines the diverse influences that contribute to JWADI distinct sound.

    The dialogue underscores the empowering message that it is never too late to chase one's dreams and emphasizes the necessity of hard work and commitment in reaching artistic goals. JWADI discusses his journey of self-discovery, offering insights into the cyclical nature of the music industry and stressing the importance of networking and collaboration—crucial elements for any independent artist.

    JWADI reflects on the significance of remaining true to oneself and the authenticity required in the creative process of making music. He explores the rewards and challenges of creating music independently, emphasizing the importance of documenting his experiences and sharing his story with others.

    The conversation also touches on how fans can support artists, highlighting the importance of understanding the intricacies of the music industry. JWADI paints a vivid picture of the emotional depth of his music, describing it through colors and personal experiences. This reflection ultimately highlights the profound connection between art and personal growth, inspiring others to embrace their individual journeys with courage and authenticity.

  • In this conversation, Aura Mustang discusses the latest updates from Kaizen Forest, including the upcoming V-Day Project, opportunities for collaboration with various talents, and exciting developments in animation. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community support and engagement in the creative process, as well as the introduction of a Patreon for exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

  • Join us as we delve into an engaging conversation with **3LADE**, an artist on an exciting journey, as we explore the intricate world behind his latest album, *Daywalker*. 3LADE talks about the inspiration that fueled this project and his profound ambitions to connect with audiences on a deeper level. Reflecting on his past work, he emphasizes the pivotal role of community support and the personal significance of his stage name.

    3LADE is also planning a unique listening event designed to offer fans an intimate experience, showcasing not only his music but also that of fellow artists. During our discussion, we touch on the challenges faced in the current job market and the complexities involved in orchestrating an album listening event, all while highlighting the importance of engaging with audiences.

    We delve into the creative process behind *Daywalker*, analyzing specific lyrics and exploring the intended emotional impact of his music. 3LADE stresses the necessity of community involvement and strategic promotions to build anticipation ahead of the album release, envisioning an intoxicating musical experience that deeply resonates with listeners.

    As we discuss the essence of his upcoming project, 3LADE shares insights into the development of specific tracks and his innovative approach to marketing and audience engagement. He underscores the importance of artistic expression while skillfully navigating the music industry's complexities. The conversation further explores strategies for promoting his work and building a brand, shedding light on the collaborative nature of his creative process and the bubbling excitement surrounding his forthcoming performances.

  • In this enlightening conversation, Jeff Coffey, a custom airbrush artist, opens up about his journey from discovering his passion for art to building his own business. Jeff underscores the importance of creativity, knowing one's worth, and navigating the ever-evolving art market. He candidly addresses the impact of AI on the art world while championing the value of exclusivity in artistic creations.

    Jeff shares his aspiration to mentor aspiring artists, highlighting how community engagement is crucial in fostering creativity. Joined by Aura, the discussion explores various facets of the art world, delving into the importance of promoting art across multiple platforms and the collective goals artists strive to achieve with adequate community support.

    The conversation touches upon networking opportunities and the challenges inherent to creativity, including the critical task of finding the right apprentices. Jeff offers valuable insights into the red flags to watch out for in potential apprentices and shares advice for aspiring artists, stressing the importance of healthy competition within the art community.

    A significant focus is given to the independent contractor model in art studios, where Jeff highlights the benefits this approach offers artists, providing them greater autonomy and flexibility in their work.

    Drawing from his diverse interests and influences, Jeff discusses his passion for animation and comic books, notably sharing his unique comic book concept titled 'Day of Days.' Despite the challenges of a rapidly changing industry, he emphasizes the importance of creating exclusive art pieces and engaging with audiences through teaching and sharing skills.

    Throughout the conversation, Jeff remains steadfast in his commitment to maintaining authenticity in his work, offering inspiration and guidance to artists navigating similar paths.

  • In this captivating conversation, we dive into the world of Clint Kroeger, the lead singer and songwriter of Flatwoods. We explore the band's journey, delving into its dynamics and the creative process that brings their music to life. Clint shares the challenges of managing a band, emphasizing the crucial role of vulnerability in songwriting and how family and personal experiences profoundly influence their music.

    Flatwoods is known for its distinctive place in the underground music scene, boasting a unique identity as they carve their path through the industry. During our discussion, we explore various themes, such as networking in creative fields and effective marketing strategies for musicians, highlighting the importance of connections within the industry and the hurdles of marketing and promotion.

    Clint also shares Flatwoods' recommendations for first-time listeners, inviting them to experience the essence of their sound. We delve into the inspirations behind specific songs, cultural reflections within their music, and the intriguing personal connections between food and music.

    Clint provides insights into his songwriting process, drawing from personal experiences that breathe life into his music. He reflects on the impact of a personal injury on his creative journey, discusses the dynamics of past relationships, and underscores the significance of live performances in connecting with audiences.

    As he looks to the future, Clint shares exciting details about Flatwoods' upcoming single, encouraging listeners to support their music. This conversation offers a window into the heart and soul of Flatwoods, a band whose passion and creativity continue to thrive in every note.

  • In this captivating conversation, we dive into the world of Clint Kroeger, the lead singer and songwriter of Flatwoods. We explore the band's journey, delving into its dynamics and the creative process that brings their music to life. Clint shares the challenges of managing a band, emphasizing the crucial role of vulnerability in songwriting and how family and personal experiences profoundly influence their music.

    Flatwoods is known for its distinctive place in the underground music scene, boasting a unique identity as they carve their path through the industry. During our discussion, we explore various themes, such as networking in creative fields and effective marketing strategies for musicians, highlighting the importance of connections within the industry and the hurdles of marketing and promotion.

    Clint also shares Flatwoods' recommendations for first-time listeners, inviting them to experience the essence of their sound. We delve into the inspirations behind specific songs, cultural reflections within their music, and the intriguing personal connections between food and music.

    Clint provides insights into his songwriting process, drawing from personal experiences that breathe life into his music. He reflects on the impact of a personal injury on his creative journey, discusses the dynamics of past relationships, and underscores the significance of live performances in connecting with audiences.

    As he looks to the future, Clint shares exciting details about Flatwoods' upcoming single, encouraging listeners to support their music. This conversation offers a window into the heart and soul of Flatwoods, a band whose passion and creativity continue to thrive in every note.

  • UglyBeinRodio takes us through his journey as a music artist, tracing his career from writing lyrics inspired by artists like Drake to establishing his own label, Neighbors World. Rodio emphasizes the significance of owning one's music and the creative freedom that comes with leading his own label.

    The discussion brings to light the collaborative spirit thriving within Neighbors World, where diverse sounds are embraced and explored. Rodio is particularly interested in genres like new age trap hip hop, and he is open to drawing potential influences from Afro sounds, indicating a rich tapestry of musical exploration.

    Listeners are afforded a transparent view into the challenges and triumphs Rodio faces as an independent artist navigating the complexities of the music industry. His journey encapsulates a blend of innovation, resilience, and the pursuit of self-expression, providing inspiration for aspiring artists and those interested in the evolving landscape of music entrepreneurship.

  • UglyBeinRodio takes us through his journey as a music artist, tracing his career from writing lyrics inspired by artists like Drake to establishing his own label, Neighbors World. Rodio emphasizes the significance of owning one's music and the creative freedom that comes with leading his own label.

    The discussion brings to light the collaborative spirit thriving within Neighbors World, where diverse sounds are embraced and explored. Rodio is particularly interested in genres like new age trap hip hop, and he is open to drawing potential influences from Afro sounds, indicating a rich tapestry of musical exploration.

    Listeners are afforded a transparent view into the challenges and triumphs Rodio faces as an independent artist navigating the complexities of the music industry. His journey encapsulates a blend of innovation, resilience, and the pursuit of self-expression, providing inspiration for aspiring artists and those interested in the evolving landscape of music entrepreneurship.

  • Jewlz Merino delves into his journey as an artist, highlighting his fervent passion for music and the dynamic evolution of his sound. Jewlz stresses the importance of lyrical content in his work, reflecting deeply on the influences that have shaped his art, as well as his strengths and areas for growth in songwriting. With aspirations for future collaborations and performances, Jewlz is resolutely focused on leaving a strong first impression on new listeners and is committed to continual self-improvement.

    The dialogue extends to the competitive nature of collaboration within the hip-hop genre. Jewlz introduces his innovative project, Dragon BarZ, elaborating on the intricate storytelling behind character selection and the creative processes involved. He balances his music career with a love for gaming, revealing how each passion complements the other and contributes to the meticulous crafting of his lyrical content.

    Jewlz also shares his vision for the future of his work, detailing how passion and creativity are the twin forces that drive his artistic endeavors. He acknowledges the vital role of community and constructive feedback in shaping his projects, underscoring the collective influence of supporters and peers in propelling him forward. This conversation highlights Jewlz's unwavering dedication to his art and his determination to hone his craft in the ever-evolving landscape of music.

  • In this engaging conversation, we turn the spotlight on Vacant Skies, a band whose journey is a compelling mosaic of talent and creativity. Larry, the vocalist, Eric on bass, Jade pounding the drums, and Jason shredding on guitar come together to form the dynamic lineup of this group. Each member plays a crucial role, contributing to their inimitable sound and the collective energy they bring to live performances.

    The band members share their insights into the importance of social media for effective marketing in today's music landscape. Their songwriting process is a collaborative effort, underscoring the dynamics of working together creatively and their admiration for each other's talents.

    Reflecting on their experiences in the music industry, Vacant Skies discusses their past involvements with record labels and the significance of maintaining their independence. They stress the importance of professional connections, particularly with promoters, to expand their touring opportunities and reach new audiences.

    The conversation delves into their music preferences, upcoming projects, and the innovative strategies they are using to market their new music. With excitement buzzing about their evolving sound and the positive feedback pouring in from listeners, Vacant Skies remains committed to crafting music that resonates deeply and meaningfully with their audience.

    As they continue to explore their strengths and areas for improvement, this band is focused on delivering an authentic and powerful musical experience with every note they play and every lyric they sing.

  • In this vibrant conversation, A.B. Zufidia shares the diverse journey of his artistic life as a self-taught musician, martial artist, and actor. Reflecting on his early musical influences and passion for voice acting, A.B. provides a window into his experiences across various film projects and the emotional depth he brings to his roles.

    A.B. discusses the significance of vulnerability in art and the unique challenges of navigating the entertainment industry. His martial arts background serves as a foundational pillar in his creative expression, offering discipline and focus that permeate his artistic endeavors.

    Together with Aura, the dialogue expands to cover A.B. self-taught journey in music production and acting. They explore the importance of maintaining curiosity and creativity, the shifting landscape of the music industry, and the intriguing influence of gaming on artistic expression.

    Networking opportunities and the idea of exploring international markets are among the topics they touch upon, alongside the specific challenges faced within the acting sphere. The conversation offers insights into the vital role of music in film and contemplates the exciting future of entertainment as the industry evolves.

    A.B. voices his aspirations within Hollywood, highlighting the challenges of acting and the critical importance of collaboration. Building a personal brand, leveraging the power of social media, and remaining open to new opportunities all feature as key themes in their discussion.

    Throughout, A.B. emphasizes the value of staying true to oneself and the importance of connections with like-minded individuals to foster creativity and growth. His insights reveal an unwavering commitment to embodying the artist's spirit, maintaining a sense of curiosity, and navigating the complexities of the entertainment world.

  • On today’s episode, we are fired up to introduce Kon, an independent powerhouse from the vibrant music scene of Nashville, Tennessee. Seamlessly weaving together the threads of alternative, R&B, and hip-hop, Kon started his deep dive into music at 19, digging into the nuances of the industry and fine-tuning his own sound. His venture kicked off with a personal touch—collaborating with his brother, JayU, on their debut project, "Rough Draft."

    Initially drawn to hip-hop through his love of poetry, Kon has evolved his style into what can only be described as a complete embodiment of musical expression. However, as with many independent artists, Kon faces the ongoing challenge of securing funding while keeping tight hold of his creative reigns. He’s a staunch believer that independent artists can reach the same heights as those with big-label backing, at least until costly hurdles come into play.

    Undeterred by the challenges, Kon is on the hunt for an agent and is busily preparing to launch his own line of merch. Upcoming releases promise to dip further into the rich sounds of R&B, offering fans an exciting glimpse into his expanding artistry. Kon is definitely an artist to watch, redefining the boundaries of what it means to be an independent creator with every beat he crafts and every lyric he pens.

  • Introducing Young Dalliance, an independent indie pop and rap artist hailing from Oregon. Young Dalliance is on an inspiring journey to quit his day job, build a supportive community, and pursue his music career full-time.

    His artistic path is marked by a constant balancing act between his passion for music and the real-world expectations that come with it. Beyond music, he harbors a keen interest in acting and stand-up comedy, adding rich layers to his creative pursuits.

    Known for his innovative approach, Young Dalliance enjoys blending genres to create a unique sound that resonates with audiences. He actively performs about twice a month, sharing his dynamic energy and experiences with live audiences. His musical influences include a diverse mix of artists like Nipsey Hussle, Ed Sheeran, and Bruno Mars, each contributing to his eclectic style.

    A fun fact about Young Dalliance—he’s a gamer at heart and is considering branching out into streaming on Twitch. With a foot in multiple doors of creativity, Young Dalliance is definitely an artist to watch as he navigates the road to full-time music and creative expression.

  • Introducing Young Dalliance, an independent indie pop and rap artist hailing from Oregon. Young Dalliance is on an inspiring journey to quit his day job, build a supportive community, and pursue his music career full-time.

    His artistic path is marked by a constant balancing act between his passion for music and the real-world expectations that come with it. Beyond music, he harbors a keen interest in acting and stand-up comedy, adding rich layers to his creative pursuits.

    Known for his innovative approach, Young Dalliance enjoys blending genres to create a unique sound that resonates with audiences. He actively performs about twice a month, sharing his dynamic energy and experiences with live audiences. His musical influences include a diverse mix of artists like Nipsey Hussle, Ed Sheeran, and Bruno Mars, each contributing to his eclectic style.

    A fun fact about Young Dalliance—he’s a gamer at heart and is considering branching out into streaming on Twitch. With a foot in multiple doors of creativity, Young Dalliance is definitely an artist to watch as he navigates the road to full-time music and creative expression.

  • Introducing Young Dalliance, an independent indie pop and rap artist hailing from Oregon. Young Dalliance is on an inspiring journey to quit his day job, build a supportive community, and pursue his music career full-time.

    His artistic path is marked by a constant balancing act between his passion for music and the real-world expectations that come with it. Beyond music, he harbors a keen interest in acting and stand-up comedy, adding rich layers to his creative pursuits.

    Known for his innovative approach, Young Dalliance enjoys blending genres to create a unique sound that resonates with audiences. He actively performs about twice a month, sharing his dynamic energy and experiences with live audiences. His musical influences include a diverse mix of artists like Nipsey Hussle, Ed Sheeran, and Bruno Mars, each contributing to his eclectic style.

    A fun fact about Young Dalliance—he’s a gamer at heart and is considering branching out into streaming on Twitch. With a foot in multiple doors of creativity, Young Dalliance is definitely an artist to watch as he navigates the road to full-time music and creative expression.

  • Introducing Young Dalliance, an independent indie pop and rap artist hailing from Oregon. Young Dalliance is on an inspiring journey to quit his day job, build a supportive community, and pursue his music career full-time.

    His artistic path is marked by a constant balancing act between his passion for music and the real-world expectations that come with it. Beyond music, he harbors a keen interest in acting and stand-up comedy, adding rich layers to his creative pursuits.

    Known for his innovative approach, Young Dalliance enjoys blending genres to create a unique sound that resonates with audiences. He actively performs about twice a month, sharing his dynamic energy and experiences with live audiences. His musical influences include a diverse mix of artists like Nipsey Hussle, Ed Sheeran, and Bruno Mars, each contributing to his eclectic style.

    A fun fact about Young Dalliance—he’s a gamer at heart and is considering branching out into streaming on Twitch. With a foot in multiple doors of creativity, Young Dalliance is definitely an artist to watch as he navigates the road to full-time music and creative expression.

  • Introducing Austin Steele, an independent hip-hop artist with a laser focus on his goals and a penchant for achieving the extraordinary. Austin sees himself as a regular person doing irregular things, tirelessly pursuing dreams that many might consider out of reach.

    His love for writing extends beyond music to short stories, poems, and more, providing a rich tapestry of experiences from which he draws his lyrical inspiration. While in college, Austin found himself immersed in creative writing classes, where professors and fellow students helped shape his unique narrative voice.

    Interestingly, his musical journey began with a daring challenge—he convinced his friends, none of whom had musical experience or talent, to create a mixtape together. This ambitious undertaking sparked his self-taught journey as an artist, pushing the boundaries of his creativity.

    Though he might not be a tech enthusiast, Austin’s artistic pursuits and relentless drive set him apart. His story is one of passion, determination, and the unexpected paths that lead to artistic growth. Keep an eye on Austin Steele as he continues to make waves and redefine what’s possible for an independent artist.

  • Introducing MeL, a multifaceted independent artist who has made waves as a rapper, singer, engineer, and producer over the past five consistent years. Music runs in MeL's veins, with a family deeply rooted in musical appreciation. Inspired by his uncle's pursuit of his musical dreams and his grandmother's influence through classic films like "The Five Heartbeats," MeL found his path in the world of music.

    The role of family doesn't stop there—he shares a strong brotherhood with his siblings and relishes the support that surrounds him. Passionate about working with his hands, MeL is always open to collaborating with other artists, bringing a spirit of cooperation and creativity to his work.

    In addition to his artistic ventures, MeL is a proud father, which adds another dimension to his life and inspires his music. A fun fact about MeL: he enjoys both soccer and skateboarding, showcasing his love for activity and movement outside of the studio.

    With a foundation of family, talent, and diverse interests, MeL is set to continue making his mark in the industry, crafting music that resonates with authenticity and heart.