Journalist: So IceTre, can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got into music?
IceTre: Yeah, sure. I grew up in a musical family, so I was always surrounded by music. My parents were both heavy into music and my siblings and I grew up singing together. When I was in middle school, I started writing my own songs and producing my own music. That’s when I really fell in love with music and decided to pursue it more seriously.
Journalist: That’s great. What would you say are some of your biggest influences and inspirations?
IceTre: I have a lot of different influences, but some of my biggest inspirations are 2pac, Lil Wayne, and DMX. I also love more contemporary artists like The Temptations and The Bee Gees. I think what draws me to all of these artists is their production quality and their ability to tell honest and personal stories through their music.
Journalist: Interesting. Can you tell us a bit about your songwriting process? How do you go about crafting your songs?
IceTre: It really varies from song to song. Sometimes I’ll study the melody progression first and then build the lyrics around that. Other times, I’ll have a specific idea or emotion that I want to express and I’ll start with the lyrics and build the music around that. I try to stay open to whatever comes and not get too caught up in any one method.
Journalist: That makes a lot of sense. What are you working on now?
IceTre: Right now, I’m actually in the process of recording a full-length album. It’s been a long time coming and I’m really excited to share it with the world.
Journalist: Can you tell us a bit more about it?
IceTre: Yeah, it’s called “Rise and Grind.” It’s a mixtape that I’ve been working on for the past few months. It features a lot of different producers and guest artists, and I think it’s some of my best work yet.
Journalist: That’s exciting. What was your inspiration behind the project?
IceTre: Well, the title really says it all. I wanted to create something that was motivational and inspiring for people who are out there grinding and hustling every day. I wanted to make something that would give people the energy and motivation they need to keep pushing forward.
Journalist: That’s really cool. Can you tell us about some of the other artists you worked with on the project?
IceTre: Well I’ve got a few features on there, including one with popular Idaho rapper Miscellaneous, who is also my cousin. I’ve also got a track with a singer who I think is really talented, and a few other collaborations with some up-and-coming producers.
Journalist: Nice. So, how would you say this project compares to your previous work?
IceTre: I think this project is a step up in a lot of ways. I’ve really tried to push myself creatively and take more risks with my music. I think the beats are harder, the lyrics are more thoughtful, and overall it’s just a more polished and cohesive project than anything I’ve done before.
Journalist: That’s great to hear! Where can we find your music / music projects?
IceTre: You can find all my music on Spotify, Apple Music, SoundCloud, etc. under IceTre and you can find me under @therealicetre on all social media platforms *Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, etc*
https://open.spotify.com/track/4f8k2s1FaVtpVT9G0uGxWc?si=55ec822f311e452a
Journalist: We’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for your new music and we’ll be catching up on your socials as well. Thanks for speaking with us today!
IceTre: Thank you for having me!