Tell us about your career, including your history, where you are from and how you started?
I was born and raised in London, Ontario. My Uncles were very musically inclined, it was their drive that inspired me to try something new, and music was it. My Uncle Brian used to do an Elvis Presley tribute all around the world. I started rapping for fun back in 2012, not realizing at that time that I would actually take it seriously, now it is 2021 and I love making music.
How did you come up with your band name? or Why did you decide to be a solo artist rather than form a band?
In 2018, I started to take my music very seriously, I was unsure what to call myself as an artist. I do go by the name Finesse OT, for everything I do, I like it to have that Finesse to it, so why not, use Finesse OT. Working with my team at Mitic Media, we put in the work to create a strong team.
Do you have any recorded music available for fans?
I sure do, you can find my music on Spotify, iTunes, Apple Music, as well as I enjoy making music videos, which can be found on YouTube. All my social media links from Instagram to Spotify to YouTube are listed as Finesse OT. Hit that Subscribe and Follow Button.
How would you describe your music?
The music of Finesse OT can range from Energetic, Fun Turn Up Vibes, with a vibe to get motivated. The diversity with my music also ranges from both mixing and rapping. Each song I create has a different flow to it, I like my music just like my live performances to have energy and feel good vibes. I enjoy doing features, I have recently done a couple, “Antidote” with Aaron King as well as “People On” with Casper Marcus. The video shoots were dynamic and loads of fun to do. They are on my YouTube channel as well as “Best Life” and “Winner.”
What makes your music stand out from the others?
I have a very unique sound that not too many artists have. My music is relatable as my upbringing in London was not the best and through my music, I like to reach out to those who have had it rough. My music is also very versatile, for example, metaphors I use, it could have three different meanings, I let the audience and listeners interpret their own meanings with my lyrics.
What do you like to do outside of music that contributes to their music?
When I’m not working on my music, I like to hangout with my family, spend time with my wife and son, play basketball, and play video games from time to time. Family Time is my quality time. I’m not one to sit around and do just nothing. I enjoy life and spend each day living.
Name your two biggest musical influences and why?
Being born in 1996, I have to say Eminem and 50 Cent. Eminem was a big influence because through all his hardship he was trying to provide the best life for his family and his music was amazing. It kind of resembled my home life. 50 Cent was a big influence in my childhood, he had a big control of the culture and what people were doing. I had G-unit video games that I still play to this day from time to time.
Who writes your songs? What are the main themes or topics for most of your songs?
I write my own songs, based on life experiences that I have gone through, continue to go through, or life events that others close to me have gone through.
What has been your biggest challenge as an artist? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how?
At a younger age, I was incarcerated, so I have to deal with the consequences of not being able to travel to the United States, until I can get a pardon. I continue to write my music, and spend time with my family and friends. Eventually things will work out, and I’ll be able to go to the United States to further expand my career. I couldn’t do it on my own. I had tons of support and love from people close to me. The validation and support pushed me even more to know that others are moved and can relate to my music, as that is what I want to do with my music, inspire others and turn negative situations into growth lessons.
What projects are you currently working on at the moment?
The current project I’m working on is an album called “Whole New Beginnings” being released in August. This album shows my growth in the music industry and features a lot of talented artists in London, Ontario. There are 10 songs on the mix tape.
How has your son inspired you to keep going?
My son Brandon inspires me by showing him to never give up on your dreams no matter what critiques/ non-believers say, always be dedicated and stay true to your dreams. Every time I start rapping to him, he always has the biggest smile on his face and tries rapping back and that gives me so much enjoyment and excitement to continue my passion.
Spotify: Finesseot
Instagram: Finesseot
YouTube: Finesse OT
iTunes: Finesseot
