Talan Michael: Finding His Own Sound in Rap and Experimentation
Nebraska born artist Talan Michael (Instagram: @hell.b_) is beginning to leave his mark on the underground music scene with a sound that cannot be confined to a single category. His music blends rap, synth, and experimental influences, but above all, it is guided by instinct and emotion rather than rules. Each track is an opportunity to explore a different direction, and that willingness to experiment has already become one of his defining qualities.
Talan’s path into music began in the summer of 2023 after his sophomore year of high school. Music had always been close to him, even from a young age, when he would write lyrics for fun and experiment with instruments like the clarinet and bass clarinet. Still, it was not until he surrounded himself with friends who were making their own songs that he decided to take the leap himself. Once he began creating, it quickly shifted from a casual interest into a passion that continues to drive him every day.
The artists who inspire Talan reflect his desire to stand out and remain true to himself. When he first discovered Yeat in 2021, he was struck by how unique and disruptive Yeat’s sound was, and it motivated him to avoid following trends and instead develop a style of his own. More recently, he has been influenced by Fakemink, whose production approach has shown him how powerful careful attention to detail can be. These influences serve as guideposts while he shapes his own artistic identity.
Though he is still early in his career, Talan has already released five singles, with a sixth scheduled for release on September 19. He views these songs as stepping stones, each one representing growth and refinement in his sound. This upcoming release is especially important to him, as he considers it his strongest work yet and a clear indicator of where he is headed next. Alongside these singles, he is also preparing to begin work on his first full-length album, which will serve as a larger canvas to showcase both his versatility and his vision.
One of the most significant moments in Talan’s journey so far occurred at a small show. After convincing the DJ to play one of his songs, he climbed on stage to perform. The crowd had thinned out, but that did not matter. The feeling of hearing his own track on the speakers and performing it live gave him the clarity he had been searching for. It confirmed that this was more than just a dream or hobby. Music was the path he wanted to commit to fully.
Balancing the demands of school and work while pursuing music has not always been simple, but Talan sees the challenge as part of the process. Every free moment becomes an opportunity to write, record, or learn something new. His dedication sets him apart, and the discipline he builds now is shaping the artist he is becoming.
What’s Next?
The future holds exciting possibilities for Talan Michael. His upcoming single on September 19 is more than just another release. It is a statement about his growth and his commitment to pushing himself creatively. Looking beyond that, he is focused on developing his debut album, a project that will represent not only who he is today but also the direction he wants to move in as an artist.
Talan is not interested in chasing trends or replicating what has already been done. His aim is to create experiences that feel new and authentic, music that invites listeners into a world that could only come from him. He is paying close attention to how the industry moves, studying how artists build their identities and connect with their audiences, and using that knowledge to prepare for his own rise.
For Talan Michael, this is only the beginning. His dedication, his curiosity, and his willingness to take risks will continue to guide him as he shapes his sound and builds his career. Listeners who are searching for an artist with originality and vision should keep their eyes on him, because the journey ahead promises to be just as bold and unpredictable as the music he creates.
