ARTIST ON THE WATCH: CRASH BARBOSA

This is Crash.

Crash, could you tell us a little more about how you got into music? 

I got into music being a poet as a kid.

I was a really really great poet, my content was dark in tone, and also had a lot of social references.

I was told I should Rap forever by friends, and more pushed into music rather than actively trying to do music.

Adjusting to poetry that needed to be structured with Rhythm was an adjustment for sure, but it was growth for me as an artist as well.

Using my voice started to feel like it had more power than using my written words.

That took vocal training, and a lot of ability to deal with critique to achieve though.

I hear a lot of musicians and songwriters say it’s an easy transition.

It really isn’t. It takes a lot of hard work, dedication, and rawness to do successfully.

If I was a mumble rapper without content that had any real value to society, I’m sure it would have been a much easier transition.

Fortunately, I was around all the right people who saw my raw talent as a writer, and they pushed me to be the artist I am today and carve out my own lane.

My music is entirely made up of political/social problems I’m frustrated with, as well as my own mental health problems, and I think it’s very important to speak out on those issues.

Those issues are important to people, especially nowadays.

Some people say I was ahead of my time, and I wasn’t, I was just awake rather than being asleep.

I was deeply bothered by the things I saw in society since I can remember. 

Your vibe is so refreshing/unique; how would you describe your particular sound/style when it comes to your music?

I would describe my style as “Crash Barbosa.”

I haven’t heard any artists who sounds like me.

I really try to go against the typical tendencies and structures that I feel restrict the message within the music.

I’m not about to be some “brave new word” type of artist selling people “fun” or giving terrible life advice.

That’s not something I support.

The world deserves a better version of public figures.

I’m honestly getting really upset seeing so many artists selling records and not speaking up about injustice in their communities or trying to help anybody.

That isn’t what art should be used for. 

What would you say to aspiring rappers & fans who look up to your work?

I would t