In an age where a viral video could create a career, beatmakers and artists are achieving massive triumphs via social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter. Furthermore, Youtube is spawning influencers and superstars very rapidly nowadays, and Virginia producer Mason Taylor happens to be one of those. Originally, Mason was uploading beats to his Youtube channel in order to pay rent; eventually, the VA-native found himself on Netflix’s On My Block. “I just kept the show on repeat, on mute, and created music around it,” he states.
Taylor works closely with producer Sonny Digital under their Rollin’ Records imprint. The two initially met at Atlanta’s A3C Festival and since then, have been working day-to-day on new records and workshops. Elsewhere, you’ll see that Mason Taylor produced “Freddy” by Fredo. The song appeared on Drake‘s influential OVO Soundtrack earlier this month. Check out the conversation below.
Tell me about your upbringings, how did you get into music?
Coming from Virginia, I felt like music is in the water out here! From engineering to rapping to producing, I’ve worked on the craft since I was thirteen. Around the MySpace era, I feel like the musician wasn’t as popular as now, so I felt like that made me stand out. Before those days, I was watching videos and working on my cross-over haha.
How did you initially meet Sonny Digital?
I met Sonny [Digital] at the A3C festival in Atlanta about five to six years ago. We kept in contact over the years and once I got to Atlanta, we developed a dope, creative friendship. He like a brother to me now. Studio sessions, going on press runs, it’s been a strong year. Excited for the world to hear what’s cooking up. New vibes are crazy!
What’s your process when making beats?
First thing is definitely the mood. Energy is everything. From that point, I cut something on TV on mute. Some days it’s a movie, other days it could be a classic basketball game. I like to treat my beats like movie scenes so the visuals help me come up with the melodies and then the drums.
Tell me about landing your work on Netflix’s On My Block.
I got a call from Bee, an A&R I’m good friends with. This was before the first season so I could only see the trailer and articles about the show. I just kept the show on repeat, on mute, and created music around it. The music I did for the show I wrote and produced.
Most recently, you got a placement on Top Boy, how did it feel when you found out?
I was seeing Drake talk about the show the week before. I was already curious about it so once I learned I was apart of it, I was excited of course! That was a big moment. Seeing people’s reactions online are dope and keep me inspired to create more dope music. Shout out to Benny, Jack, and Fredo for making the opportunity happen!
What advice what you give to any upcoming producers or your peers?
Stay in the studio. It’s no different than an athlete going to the gym. Learn the business. As an artist or producer, watch interviews and read as much as you can. Learn as much as you can otherwise somebody will do it for you and it will cost you a percentage.
Define RESPECT.
Respect is a value. It’s required for everything. It’s the foundation for all relationships and relationships are the key to your future.
What’s up next for Mason Taylor?
More life. More wins. Continue working on new music. Continue building relationships. Let’s not forget, stay prayed up!
You might also like
More from Interviews
RESPECT. Exclusive! From the Crates! DRAKE Interview by ELLIOTT WILSON & Images by RUBEN RIVERA
Despite the constant criticism, there's no denying that Drake is one of the best hip-hop artists our culture has to …
RESPECT. Interview: Upcoming Artist Goon Des Garcons* Talks Debut Album, ‘Sheesh!’
Up and coming artist, Goon Des Garcons* has recently released his debut album, Sheesh! and this is one project you …
RESPECT The Hustle: Kristinia DeBarge on new single ‘Bet’, Quarantine Life, & What’s Next for Her Career
Kristina DeBarge discusses her upcoming single Bet, how she spent her quarantine, and what's next for her blossoming career. RESPECT …
