2AM Ricky returns in 2022 to chop it up with 24 Hip Hop. Following an impressive 2021, the SCM Awards Best Young Artist nominee, is gearing up for the release of his highly anticipated single, “Hues”.
Since stepping on the scene, the North Carolina native has been breaking barriers as an openly transgender talent and advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community. For example, last year he became the first black transgender male artist to land a No.1 on any music chart. His trendy track, “Whatchu On” featuring CeCe Peniston peaked at No.1 on the LGBT Urban Chart and held down the spot for 10 consecutive weeks.
2AM Ricky Has Revolving Hats
Stepping out of the spotlight, Ricky switches roles between a songwriter and publicist as well. Specializing in branding and development, his resume is made up of successful works with CeCe Peniston, Morray and Everybody’s Family, and Pure Destiny LLC.
Ricky has made quite the impression on the television screen as well. In winter of 2019, he appeared on HereTV’s “Blackville” and Roll the Dice’s film, “Young and Reckless”. Keeping fans in a creative chokehold, 2AM Ricky is also a published model seen modeling Alani Taylor in the 2021 Atlanta Polo Classic Fashion Week. As well as features in A Million Magazine and Lindbergh’s 2018 Fall campaign.
Staying booked and busy, the Atlanta artist is ready to take over the new year as he is set to unleash his latest offering “Hues” on February 4th. Stay tuned as this new single will give fans a sneak peek into what’s to expect from the rising rhymer. If you haven’t already, get familiar with this media mogul before it’s too late. Don’t know where to start? No worries, we’ve got you covered! Check out our fresh new feature and interview with the ATL artist. Also, press play on his 2020 smash single “Whatchu On” featuring CeCe Peniston as we wait for the release!
2AM Rickey Stops By 24 Hip-Hop
- Hey! Thank you so much for taking the time to chop it up with me. Before we jump into our interview, tell fans new and old who 2AM Ricky is and where it all began.
I’m a rapper and songwriter from Winston-Salem, NC. Music was always a part of my life growing up and was a coping mechanism for me. I would say my true musical journey began in 2015 when my brother was murdered in his dorm room on our college campus. That loss changed me and gave me a new drive. I released a mixtape entitled “Hiatus” reflecting on the experience and was able to incorporate tapings of confessions to help with his case. From there, things took off, and last year I became the First Black Transgender Artist to top any music charts with my single “Whatchu On (featuring CeCe Peniston)” peaking at #1 on the LGBT Urban Charts for 10 weeks.
- Next, as a lover of art and its artistry. I’m intrigued when learning the significance behind artists and their stage names. What does 2AM Ricky mean to you & how did it come about?
I wanted a name that translated the message behind my music. 2am (in a time sense) is a time where most people are either lost in their thoughts, lost in their dreams, or somewhere lost in the moment. I want to create music that regardless of what you’re feeling and going through, people can get lost in.
- Outside of the music, many may not know but, you’re multifaceted and are tapped into a number of avenues. From songwriting to acting and modeling and now stepping into the realm of PR — you’ve expanded your niche. Are there any other hidden talents we should be on the lookout for?
I really enjoy fashion and design, and I’ll be releasing The 2AM Brand merchandise this year that I’m excited for everyone to see. I’ve also been able to help cut and pitch some amazing records with other artists, and have a few major tv and film placements coming up for my record “PLB” with L.E.X this year as well as “Whatchu On” with CeCe Peniston.
The Career
- Also, most may know how to connect with you for acting and music but please let us know how we can book you for your PR services!
Anyone interested in PR services can contact me via social media or email, or they can reach out to PureDestiny directly.
- Great! Guys be sure to connect with him and Pure Destiny! He’ll set your career up on the right path! What influenced you to take your talents from in the spotlight as an artist, model and actor to also behind the scenes and in the business aspect of things?
I lived through an indie artist’s nightmare, and experienced having a notable producer in the industry attempt to rob me of my music and give it to an A-list artist in a bad deal. Once I was able to get myself out of that situation, I never wanted to be in a position to have to rely on others again, so I began to tap into my hidden talents. I saw first hand how corrupt the industry can be, and wanted to be able to help guide others who may face the same challenges because of who they are, what they look like, and the talents they were blessed with.
- With that being said, how do you handle all of those hats so effortlessly?
Time management is my best friend. It’s difficult to juggle so many things at times, and in those moments, I remind myself of my “why”. I also have a great mentor in CeCe Peniston, who constantly gives me advice and encouragement on how to balance navigating the industry. Having someone of her stature in my corner affirming my purpose not only in this industry, but in this world, helps give the confidence boost I need when things get difficult.
- What keeps you in a creative space?
I spend time in prayer and meditation to balance myself when I want to be the most creative. I’m a storyteller and pull a lot from life experiences and those around me. Creatively, I’m drawn to things that allow me to feel, from sounds, to poetry, to self-reflections. I’m a huge fan of live instrumentation. I listen to artists such as Rick James, Little Richard, James Brown, and Pharrell / (N.E.R.D) for inspiration.
“Hues” —
- Your highly anticipated single “Hues” is set to drop off sometime at the start of the new year… What can we expect?
Hues is a nostalgic R&B record that I’m very excited to release. From its snares and the ride of the composition, to the smoothness of the vocals, it creates a perfect vibe for the lovers to start off the year. I wanted to create a record that balanced an old-school R&B feel with a smooth hip-hop sound.
- What inspired your new trendy track?
Hues started off as a love letter that later transitioned into the record. It’s the story of being in love with a person who may be scared to take the next step. While still seeing them for their true colors, or their “hues”. The lyrics speak of loving through the insecurities, and I believe the personal inspiration helped add to the raw sound.
What’s Next For 2AM Ricky?
- As we enter the new year, what are some New Year’s resolutions you have for yourself?
My New Year’s resolution is to create more fearlessly and step outside of my comfort zone. I want to impact the world. In order to do that, I want to truly understand the different cultures and sounds. From UK Drum & Bass, to Dancehall and more, I’m pushing myself to expand my creativity like never before.
- Eager to hear more about your career and artistry, what’s next for 2AM Ricky?
I have my album “Brown Boy” that I will be releasing later in the year. Also I have been collaborating with CeCe Peniston, so I’m excited for you all to hear the new music that we’ve been working on. I also will be starring in a new show, “WWLWWLM”, as well as a few other upcoming projects. 2022 is going to be a big year, and I’m claiming it as the year of the Deuce.
- Lastly, is there a message that you’d like to leave with fans?
The biggest key in my growth and success has been believing in myself. Not being afraid to own my truth. I’m thankful for my fans. Because every time I hear how my music or story impacts them, it inspires me to keep going. I’m looking forward to giving them more great music for them to vibe to. While providing the representation needed for those who are like me. Keep streaming, keep sharing, and let’s keep making history together, because I couldn’t do this without them.