Heart, hustle, and humility were the driving forces behind Joey Bandz’s triumphant return to music in 2019. After a life-threatening accident nearly derailed his career leaving him unable to walk for 12 months, this South Carolina rapper used this experience as fuel to continue on his journey to becoming a musical icon.

Once Joey Bandz regained his strength he was right back in the studio perfecting his craft with accredited producer Keyz Bridgez. The pair experimented endlessly to create fresh sounds that uniquely blend different aspects of hip hop and R&B with Joey’s sultry southern drawl. This music along with Joey’s undeniable work ethic caught the attention of GRAMMY-nominated DJ/Producer Clinton Sparks. The trio hit the studio once again to write and record Joey’s debut EP Lonerlife that was released earlier this month.

While Joey is on the road actively promoting his new music, Vydia had the opportunity to interview the hip hop star to learn more about his journey back to the studio, the motivation behind Lonerlife, and more. Here’s what he had to say:

What motivated you to pursue a career in music?

I found a way to express myself by writing about how I felt and I saw how it impacted others that could relate to me. Music gives me hope that I can change my circumstances. From there, I could be an example of what could happen if you never give up on something you’re passionate about.

How has growing up in South Carolina influenced your sound?

Depending on where you are from in South Carolina you may have a different accent. It’s a lot of pain and hurt from different acts that have happened within our community but there is also a lot of love and joy at the same time.

Who has been your biggest inspiration?

My mom, she never quits.

How would you describe your music and what sets it apart from mainstream hip-hop today?

My concepts are topics most artists wouldn’t think of to make a song. The topics I write about are from conversations carved out of real-life events all demographics can relate to.

In 2014, you were involved in an accident that left you unable to walk for 12 months. How did this experience affect the way you approach creating music?

Not being able to walk for a year was a humbling experience. It made me realize that life is too short. One day we are going to grow to be old and wrinkled so I might as well take a chance to do what I want in life and live life now.

It didn’t take long before you were back in the studio refining your craft with Keyz Bridgez. Your music quickly caught the ear of Clinton Sparks. What has been the best piece of advice you have received working with these influential producers?

Be myself don’t follow trends. Make music that can be memorable and not from the microwave. be authentic and it will attract that same energy.

Congratulations on releasing your debut EP, Lonerlife. How would you describe this project?

An introduction to one side of Joey Bandz. It expresses how I was searching for an escape from the different situations I was dealing with.

What was the biggest challenge you faced when making it?

Dealing with depression and recording it. I was driving hours to the studio because I only wanted to record with my producer “Bridges did it” he lived out of state. I was going through a lot financially putting myself through barber school and getting my GED.

What is your favorite track off of your debut EP?

Fake Love

You also recently released the music video for ‘DUI’. What was the inspiration behind it?

Everybody has a vice, some are just good at covering theirs up. As men, we sometimes look for escapes mentally. ‘DUI‘ was about finding an escape and the power intimacy under the influence.

What advice would you like to give to other aspiring artists?

Never give up and stick to your vision.

What can fans look forward to for the rest of the year?

More music, more video content, more shows and more inspiration.

How has Vydia empowered you as an independent artist?

They have given me the opportunity to expand my demographic through there relationships and we are just getting started.

He’s right, Joey Bandz is just getting started making waves in the industry. To ensure you don’t miss out on any new music, follow Joey Bandz on social media and subscribe to his YouTube channel. Keep an eye on our blog to see who will be featured next!