Viimahx, an artist from Brooklyn, New York, draws inspiration from a diverse musical background. His artistic journey reflects a profound evolution, transitioning from a passionate hobby into a defining aspect of his identity.
Inspiration and Artistic Evolution
Viimahx’s artistic journey began with the sounds of lo-fi hip hop and bossa nova. “Initially, I was inspired by what other artists were capable of creating,” he shares. “I listened to a lot of lo-fi hip hop back in 2016-17.” Starting with samples from YouTube and drum loops, he gradually learned to mix, master, and produce entire songs independently. “It’s like something catches your eye, and you think, ‘How do I do that in my own way?’” Over time, he transformed his music from a hobby into a means of self-definition, aiming to share his passion with others. “Now I’m just an independent artist trying to find my audience and show the world what I can do.”
Preferred Medium and Techniques
Viimahx’s primary artistic medium is a digital audio workstation (DAW). “Using a DAW allows me to explore what the program can do,” he explains. He finds that a flow state is essential for creativity. “The most important thing is to let it happen and not be too analytical about it.”
Defining Artistic Style and Themes
His artistic style is rooted in emotion. “I want to provide feelings the same way Aphex Twin, Tyler, the Creator, or JPEGMAFIA did for me in my teen years,” he states. Viimahx’s music is a blend of various genres, using synths, drum kits, and samples from old projects to spark creativity. “The main message is to stay true to yourself and become free from the jails of life.”
Creative Workspace:
Viimahx began producing music in his bedroom, which provided a quick way to capture ideas. “However, it also made me a bit delusional, dreaming of things with no logical way of achieving them.” Now, sharing a studio with his friend Mikeyflowz has fostered a collaborative environment that enhances his vocal development. “Collaborating keeps my mind fresh,” he adds.
Cultural Influences
His musical influences span various genres. “I listened to a lot of hip hop in high school and dubstep in middle school,” he recalls. Additionally, video game soundtracks have shaped his sound, creating a mix of soulful and digital expressions. “Producers like Knxwledge and Flying Lotus have heavily influenced my music. Right now, Edward Skeletrix is my main inspiration.”
Balancing Personal Expression and Audience Expectations
Viimahx navigates the balance between personal expression and audience expectations by actively listening to feedback from those invested in his growth. “Collaborating with other artists has helped me learn how to apply feedback while also fulfilling my ideas,” he explains. “At the end of the day, music isn’t me; it’s a product created to achieve a certain result.”
The Significance of Storytelling
Storytelling is fundamental to Viimahx’s art. “Everything we do as people is storytelling,” he states. Instrumental songs can transport listeners mentally, helping them tell their own stories. “We all lullaby ourselves into our dream life.”
Influence of Technology
Viimahx strives to create everything from scratch, viewing instruments as mediums for emotion. “If something automated, like AI, doesn’t resonate with human art, I don’t incorporate it,” he mentions, emphasizing his commitment to authenticity.
Challenges and Overcoming Creative Blocks
When facing creative blocks, Viimahx embraces uncertainty. “Embracing uncertainty is key to art,” he shares. He acknowledges that confidence in his work comes with practice and self-improvement. “Your health and state of being are your art,” he adds.
Memorable Experiences
A significant moment in his career occurred when he created the song “Ledi Gaga” on his birthday in 2022. “It was my first collaborative video project, and I’m grateful for the experience,” he recalls. The song conveys the message to focus on the energy of a piece rather than technical perfection.
Navigating the Business Side
Viimahx approaches the business side of artistry through experimentation. “I’ve tried paid ads and reaching people through content,” he explains. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity in marketing, noting that social media platforms like Instagram help him connect with fans and inspire others.
Future Aspirations
Currently, Viimahx is working on an EP titled “Achivuh.” “I want to create something that showcases how my abilities have developed over time,” he states. Although still in the early stages, he anticipates a flood of ideas from a creatively stagnant period. Additionally, he aspires to create a collective of artists, similar to Slayworld, where each member can thrive in their own unique way.