Persistence Pays Off Presents: Nicholas Ray "I Believe"

[Devon Brabham]

What was your motivation for your new album?

I sat out to display my growth as a man and as a mature artist. I wanted to use my voice to help others going through some questionable life decisions. I could have easily made a turn up album. But my mind was on something different. It was time for a change, starting with myself. I definitely wanted to bring something that's going to be positive out of his second project in mind my first project I was you, know a bit of a firecracker or not as proud of my words as a person was trying to make a difference in today's society on how we go about our days. I wanted to bring some inspiration and growth to those who struggle day in Day Out. I would be lying if I said that my competitive spirit didn’t kick in, because I know I am better than a lot of music out both major and independent.

Describe your creative processes that were involved in your new album?

I Really Loved the Mello Vibe of Team Producers Ric & Thadeus.
My boy Knowledge put me on game with their production. The first time i heard their work. I knew I wanted to make another album!

First I create my hook based on the vibe of the beat also the current mood I’m in and then I let the pen flow. You know, I am old school because I still use a pen and pad. I tend to let the beat find me versus me finding a beat. I’ll jam track after track, but. The connection has to be there, and I’ll know it too. Its like that feeling you get when you know you have found the one! I strongly challenge myself on creating a story line, most times. Having that beginning, middle, end in order to close out a nice format! I wanted my fans to know I’m a lyrical artist at heart, from my cadence, my style and ability to capture their attention. I feel I have that voice to draw anybody inside my life. I only allow myself to write when life give me a topic to run with. Based on The good the bad times.

How did you get started in music?

My two older brothers were rapping before me. Deleget & Edify
My bro Edify introduced me to a boss BR8 beat machine from there I was making beats for them to rap off inside momma garage! Soon after I wrote my first flow at 14. The growth has been amazing over the past 16 years. Over the years I have learned that creating a song is not just about finding a beat and spitting random lyrics that sound good. I have definitely grown and it shows and how I approach creating singles and a project because I have matured in that I want to tell a story to my fans and hope at some time they can just turn on my music and it helps them through a rough time or get them in the party mood.