In a recent interview, the artist behind the highly anticipated project “TEN” shared insights into what this body of work represents, both creatively and personally, at this pivotal stage in their career.
Discipline Meets Identity
“TEN” symbolizes the intersection of discipline and identity. “I took three years to really study myself—my voice, my tone, my restraint—and come back with scalable products to take seriously,” the artist explained. “Creatively, it’s about control: nothing rushed, every record living in its own pocket. Personally, it’s me stepping into who I’ve always been groomed to be, but on my own terms. This isn’t an introduction; it’s alignment.”
The Energy of Collaboration in “In The Morning”
The new single “In The Morning,” featuring BOSS, embodies a distinct energy that is both smooth and polished yet controlled. The artist described how the collaboration with BOSS came together: “BOSS brought texture to the record. I was already living in that late-night-to-sunrise feeling, but his Louisiana roots mixed with that Jersey edge added a certain grit and bounce that grounded the record. It never felt forced—just two perspectives meeting in the same moment. That balance is what makes the record feel complete.”
Choreography as Narrative
The music video for “In The Morning” leans heavily into story-driven dance and performance. “The record and accompanying visuals are about tension and release,” the artist shared. “Dance became the language for everything we’re not saying out loud—the push and pull, the desire, the control. Every movement is considered, almost like a conversation between two energies. I didn’t want just performance; I wanted a story you could feel even with the sound off. Director Ian Burse brought the cornerstones of my artistry to life.”
The Importance of Collaborative Equity
A clear emphasis on blending R&B and Hip-Hop through diverse perspectives shines throughout the project. “Collaborative equity is everything,” the artist asserted. “It’s about mutual respect and visibility—making sure every voice adds value and is felt. I come from many worlds that don’t always intersect with my connections, so I’m highly intentional about bridging that gap. Whether it’s vocalists, producers, or creatives behind the scenes, I want my music to feel like a collective experience, not a one-man perspective.”
Influences Shaping Delivery and Cadence
BOSS’ contribution to “In The Morning” echoes elements of iconic artists like Snoop Dogg, Nelly, A Tribe Called Quest, Fabolous, Nas, Wale, and The Notorious B.I.G. The artist reflected on how these influences have shaped their approach: “Those artists mastered presence. They never sound like they’re chasing the beat—the beat moves with them. That taught me that real confidence is in restraint. I focus on pocket, tone, and color with my voice. Effortless delivery isn’t about doing less; it’s about knowing exactly when to do something and when to let the moment breathe. The atmosphere is the byproduct—and the hope is that it creates return visitors in the years to come.”
Exploring Lifestyle Narratives
Across “TEN“, a strong lifestyle storytelling component emerges, addressing themes of luxury, relationships, and the evolution of nights into mornings. “That narrative space is important because it’s honest,” the artist explained. “A lot of truth lives in those in-between hours—when things are less curated. The key to keeping it authentic is not over-explaining it. I let the details speak of small moments, energy shifts, and conversations. It’s less about glamorizing and more about capturing a feeling people recognize to prompt connection and re-engagement.”
Balancing Melody and Lyricism
Striking a balance between melody and rap, the artist emphasizes that hooks are just as impactful as verses. “The hook is the anchor, heavily influenced by Michael Jackson. If the hook doesn’t feel right, nothing else matters,” they stated. “I treat melody like emotion and rap like perspective—they have to complement each other. I’m always asking: does this feel as good as it sounds? If it doesn’t, I keep refining until both sides hit equally.”
Independent Success on the Charts
“TEN” debuted strongly, peaking at #3 on the Apple Music R&B chart, driven by independent momentum. “That reception means a lot, especially competing alongside major artists,” the artist noted. “It confirms the foundation of my strategy—selling with a grassroots market mentality and fostering connection with those willing to become a part of my story. To stand next to established names independently and still make that kind of impact shows that the approach is working. But it’s not validation—it’s momentum. Now it’s about scaling the vision, building deeper connections with the audience, and continuing to deliver at a higher level without losing the intention that got me here.”
With “TEN“, the artist is poised to redefine their narrative and the landscape of contemporary music, inviting listeners to join them on this compelling journey.
