RESPECT. Interview: Yung Mil Discusses Being An Early Internet Sensation and His Latest Single “Just 4 U”

Since his first show at 14 years old, Portland-born Hip-Hop/Pop Artist and Producer Yung Mil, broke into the industry with many quality original songs and popular remixes online, infectious opening act performances sharing stages with major artists like Kid Ink, Tyga, French Montana, E-40, T.Mills, Sage The Gemini, Warren G and more.

Along his career, he was hand picked the winner of Russell Simmons & Kevin Liles’ National Def Jam Rapstar: Get Schooled contest. A video contest to create a song about the importance of education and goals. With Cool and Dre produced winning song “Leaders Of The New School” and the help of thousands of votes he scored meetings with Hip Hop Pioneers, Def Jam Record Label founders Russell Simmons & Kevin Liles and a televised guest performance on BET’s 106 & Park.

With over 13,200 followers rapidly growing on Twitter and widespread social media, over 1/2 Million collective views on his viral international party anthem “Do Your Dance” ft. George Padilla selling in over 40 countries, sold out shows and support from major clothing brands like Under Armour, he proves to have accomplished a lot in his young years.

All to be owed to the support of his loyal following and Internet fanbase the DBA Clique. Young individuals who remain fun, positive, enjoy the only life they’ve been granted and strive for their goals and dreams no matter how big or small. The DBA Clique name derives from one of Mil’s life mottos: “if you Dream, and Believe then you can Achieve.” They rep the same.

After the release of his Debut Album, Wake Up Call, Yung Mill is looking to set the stones for a bright future within the music and entertainment business with the release of his latest single “Just 4 U” .

RESPECT.: How did you first get involved in music?

Yung Mil: My journey in music starts back in about 2007 in Portland, OR. My two older brothers would always freestyle around the house and recite music by Bone Thugs, E-40, 2Pac, Eazy-E & more. Being the younger bro, I naturally picked up the trait and started writing my own bars in order to step in the home based cyphers lol. My mom was also r&b vocalist, so that’s where I inherited my melodic interests. After that I took my music straight to Myspace and adapted to the internet from there on.

RESPECT.: Who inspires you and why?

I’m inspired by artists and entrepreneurs alike because of the difference from the beaten path, rat race-esque career paths. Guys like Jay-Z, Diddy, Nipsey Hussle etc.

Yung Mil: Anyone who decided to chase something that truly made them happy (not just comfortable) is someone I can draw inspiration from. I aim to connect bigger than solely music. I want to change lives & enjoy the process. Musically, I try not to be too influenced by others. I just do what I like.

RESPECT.: You went viral on the internet early in your career , what contributed to the success?

Yung Mil: The main thing that I’d say contributed to my success is definitely consistency. I started and never let off the gas. Interacting with the supporters in a genuine way is my favorite key part of it. The virality is simply the product of the relationships with those supporters & good music aligning on some astrologically sh** haha.

RESPECT.: What is “DBA Clique” who are you trying to reach?

Yung Mil: The Dream Believe Achieve Clique. My fans & supporters rep that and rock the merch because they connect with my aspirational ideals. My overall message is to live life, have fun and go for things that aren’t always easy but offer high return. Whether that’s career-related or lifestyle choices. Todays youth needs this message most since they can LITERALLY change the world in the years to come, but young adults can benefit from the vibes as well. I’m not perfect by any means, but either way I’m right there with ’em.

RESPECT.: What are you currently working on?Yung Mil: The “JUST 4 U” music video is on the way. My best visual yet. I’ve been in the studio all throughout 2019 so you can expect an onslaught of records & visuals telling my side of things. Aside from the singles, I’m putting together a couple projects including another EP and Full length. Names to be announced, but are definite game changers.

RESPECT.:  What is the most important lesson you’ve learned about branding?

Yung Mil: The most important thing about branding to me is having people know you deeper than the music. With the amount of artists out there today, you have to stand out & stand for something 10 toes down. Once you truly know yourself, everyone else can follow suit.

RESPECT.:  Do you feel like you got next?

Yung Mil: I know what I’m capable of, and I’m full of surprises. They’ll just have to see where I’m at next year lol.

RESPECT.:  Who would you like to work with in the future?

Yung Mil: Tell Chris Brown I still need a hook, and Tory Lanez & Big SeanI got one for us!

RESPECT.: . What’s in store for you in 2020?

Yung Mil: Lots of new music, and shows. New money, new approaches and the same ol’ Mil.

RESPECT.: What does RESPECT. mean to you?Yung Mil: Without Respect, you’ve got nothing. Much Love to RESPECT. always being a shining light for Hip Hop.