Nick Grant Talks Being Influenced by Andre 3000 and More

First off, We want to thank you for taking the time to interview with Contrast Magazine. Who would you say influenced your love for music the most, and why?

Andre 3000. He resonated with me because I was a southern kid that related to his content. Nas’ flow pattern influenced me heavily and Tupac and Biggie’s passion.

Coming from such a small town of Walterboro, South Carolina, did you experience any type of small town drama that you feel could have gotten in the way of your success? How did it change you for the better?

Where I’m from, there is little opportunity so people are finding violent ways to solve their problems. I feel like if I stayed in my hometown I wouldn’t be doing this interview. It’s my responsibility to make it out and show them that this world is bigger than where you’re from.

The music industry doesn’t always work out for people. Especially the feedback from social media, huge outlets, etc. How do you keep from reading anything or responding to it for that matter?

It starts with me being self aware and confident in my decisions. Nobody can make me feel bad about myself, especially if they don’t know me.. Most people just do it for the shock value and just to get a reaction, but then when you respond to it, they hit you with “man, I’m a fan, I didn’t think you would see this”. It comes with the job & I accept it.

What is one highlight of your career that you don’t ever think you’ll forget. How has this moment maybe helped you get to where you are?

I conversed with Nas about how it’s a good time for me and he respects what I’m doing. Also, Andre 3000 came to one of my shows. It’s just shown me that I’m doing the right thing and that was enough inspiration to keep me going for the next 20 years.

What would you say would be your dream collaboration? If you could collaborate with anyone, alive or passed. 

I’d love to have collaborated with Biggie and Pac, that’s a dope thought. Also, Marvin Gaye. I listened to him a lot growing up and he was so soulful so I think we could’ve made something interesting and melodic. I’m a fan of Dre and Outkast, period, so them, but also Nas, Jay; Erykah and Lauryn Hill would be nice too.

Finally, where do you see yourself in 5 years? Where would you like to be, and how do you plan to get there?

In 5 years, I hope to have a few more albums under my belt, performing infront of audiences that really champion my movement and taking care of my family and loved ones more that’ve been on this journey with me. I have loose plans but I like to keep my head down, create, work and let God direct my path.

Thank you, Nick, for taking the time out to interview with Contrast Magazine. Contrast wishes you the best in all your future endeavors.