From the rich musical tapestry of New Orleans to the vibrant streets of Tacoma, Washington, OTM Clockwork has been weaving his narrative into the fabric of hip hop. With a lineage that traces back to the heart of the Crescent City’s legendary sounds, Clockwork’s journey is a testament to the power of heritage and the influence of a diverse musical upbringing.
The Roots of Rhythm
Raised on the soulful tunes of Frankie Beverly & Maze, OTM Clockwork’s earliest memories are filled with melodies that would shape his future. “Music always caught my attention,” he recalls, reminiscing about the days when his mother would play her favorite tracks at high volume. It’s this foundational love for sound, coupled with the legacy of a cousin who’s a local legend, that set Clockwork on his path to the industry.
Inspired by the Greats
Influenced by a pantheon of rap’s elite, from Soulja Slim to Tupac and Nipsey, OTM Clockwork’s inspirations read like a who’s who of hip hop royalty. Each artist has contributed a thread to the tapestry Clockwork weaves with his words, creating a style that’s as diverse as it is profound.
Crafting Lyrics with Soul
For OTM Clockwork, writing music is a physical experience. “The beat blaring through the speakers, a pen & pad in hand, walking around moving to the beat,” describes his creative process. It’s this kinetic energy that fuels his lyricism, allowing him to pen verses that resonate with authenticity before they even hit the page.
Mentor by Day, Lyricist by Night
By day, Clockwork dedicates his time to mentoring the youth in his community, working tirelessly to guide and uplift the next generation. It’s a role that speaks volumes about his character and his commitment to positive influence, both in music and in life.
The Meaning in the Music
OTM Clockwork’s music is a delicate balance of overt messages and nuanced wordplay. Every track is a riddle wrapped in a rhythm, inviting listeners to unravel the layers of meaning. “If you know, you know,” he jests, hinting at the depth of his lyrical content.
Collaborating with Giants
Clockwork’s collaborations are a highlight of his career, with studio sessions featuring revered artists like Mitchy Slick standing out as pivotal moments. “Recording a track with him was a great feeling,” Clockwork shares, emphasizing the importance of bringing his best to every take.
Engaging with Fans: Humility and Gratitude
Whether it’s through social media, public encounters, or studio visits, OTM Clockwork remains humble and approachable to his fans. His interactions are laced with gratitude and encouragement, reminding them to stay focused and keep climbing.
The Therapeutic Power of Music
For Clockwork, making music is therapeutic. It’s an outlet for emotions and a platform for connection. While he has overcome the initial fear of performing, he remains wary of the “fake shit and hidden agendas” that pervade the industry, advocating for genuine relationships and authentic business dealings.
Overcoming Anxiety with Confidence
Performance anxiety was once a familiar foe for OTM Clockwork, but with the consistent positive reception of his music, his confidence has soared. Now, he approaches releases and performances with a self-assuredness that comes from years of positive reinforcement.
Sound Advice for Aspiring Artists
Clockwork advises up-and-comers to invest in themselves and to understand the multifaceted nature of the music business. “It’s more to making music than just making music,” he cautions, urging artists to be mindful of the legacy they leave with their words.
An Invitation to Listen
Clockwork’s final words are an invitation: “SUBSCRIBE and listen to my music; it’s on all platforms! It’s OTM Clockwork!”
