BLO (@lilhot_5) has quickly carved out his own space in hip-hop. And he’s doing it all from behind bars. His new album, Soon, is a 19-track testament to the fact that there are brighter days are ahead. Music, for Blo, is a lifeline that has carried him through some of the toughest moments of his life.
Born and raised in Atlanta, a city with a rich musical history, BLO’s sound reflects the culture that shaped him, a blend of authenticity and soul that goes beyond the beats. However, it was his personal hardships, including time spent incarcerated, that truly forged his artistry. “Incarceration gave me the drive to go harder with my music,” he says, an experience that shifted his perspective on life and creativity. BLO’s connection with his fans only deepened during these challenging times, motivating him to speak his truth through his music.
The album Soon—named as both a personal declaration and a symbol of hope, captures BLO’s transformative journey. “A change is SOON to come,” he affirms.
Interview with BLO
Q: How did growing up in Lithonia and being surrounded by Atlanta’s rich musical heritage shape your sound and approach to hip-hop?
BLO: I always loved music, but Atlanta’s musical heritage showed me a different side of music and pushed me even more. It gave me a deeper understanding of the culture and how music can really connect with people.
Q: Which artists or moments inspired you to pursue a career in music?
BLO: My late uncle, who passed in 2012, was a huge influence on me. He introduced me to music and pushed me to think differently about it. His impact on my life is something that still drives me today.
Q: Your path has had its challenges, including periods of incarceration. How have these experiences shaped the themes and messages in your music?
BLO: Being incarcerated gave me the drive to go harder with my music. It also opened my eyes and made me look at the streets differently. It wasn’t just about surviving—it was about seeing things from a new perspective.
Q: Can you share what motivated you to continue creating music while incarcerated, and how that process impacted your artistic growth?
BLO: My fans motivated me to continue making music while incarcerated. Even when I was locked up, I felt connected to them. My fan base actually grew larger while I was inside. That connection kept me going, and it pushed me to keep growing as an artist.
Q: Your music is deeply rooted in your personal experiences and environment. How do you balance telling your story while addressing broader societal issues?
BLO: I try to stay true to myself and my story, but I also want to make sure I’m addressing things that affect everyone. It’s about being real, but also using my platform to touch on bigger issues that we all face, whether it’s struggles in the streets or the mental battles we all go through.
Q: What message do you hope listeners take away from Soon?
BLO: I know I’m not the person I was before I started making music. Hopefully, some of my hurt and pain will let the next man know to keep going. Things will get better—no matter how tough it gets, it all gets better soon.
Q: What does the album title Soon represent to you, both personally and artistically?
BLO: Soon represents change. Personally and artistically, it’s about knowing that a change is coming. It’s a reminder that no matter what you’re going through right now, things are going to get better soon.
Q: Were there any pivotal moments or standout tracks during the creation of this album that define this project?
BLO: Hole Again stands out for sure. Being in the hole for 90 days, not having family contact, and losing people while I was incarcerated really brought me down. But even during that darkness, I knew it would get better soon. That track really captures that feeling.
Q: You’ve been vocal about using your platform for social change. What specific issues drive you, and how do they influence your music and community work?
BLO: Seeing the world use the screwdriver emoji everywhere drives me to keep going. The screwdriver is something I’m promoting, and it feels like the world is carrying around my signature now. It’s a sign that people are resonating with what I’m about.
Q: How has your connection to the community of Lithonia influenced your perspective on giving back?
BLO: I haven’t been able to fully give back to Lithonia yet, but I’m still carrying the weight of the city on my back. I want to be able to do more for my community when the time is right. The love I’ve received from here keeps me motivated to keep pushing.
Q: As your career continues to evolve, what do you hope to accomplish next, both musically and personally?
BLO: Personally, I hope to accomplish peace of mind and freedom. Musically, I want to keep growing and pushing myself to be better. I’m always trying to take my craft to the next level.
Q: What legacy do you want to leave behind as an artist and a voice for your community?
BLO: My music is my legacy. I want people to remember me for being real, for always staying true to myself and my roots. I want my work to inspire others to keep going, even when it seems like all hope is lost.