We had the chance to sit down with the Baltimore, Maryland native, and East Coast Dominating House Artist: FOMO. We personally discovered him at SXSW at the Beautiful Buzzz “Get Buzzzed” Event, and ever since then we have been following his music and the label he has been releasing on, Warpaint Records.
Q. When did I start making music?
A. I started making music when I was 14. I sold boxes of ice cream until I could afford to buy my own DAW. When I had a enough money I went out and I got this program called ejay which was a simple sequencer that you could make beats with by looping together samples and patterns. It was probably the worst DAW you could ever buy but it was perfect for giving me a foundation in arrangement and production.
Eventually I moved on to composing on Reason and FL Studio which I still use today. My first summer in high-school I saved up all my money and bought enough gear to turn my bedroom into a studio. I taught myself pro tools and started recording & producing for local artists.
Q. How was it to play SXSW?
A. SXSW was amazing and playing it was nothing short of a dream come true. Not only did I get to hang out with some of my favorite Dj/Producers, but I also got to headline on the same stage at the Get Buzzed showcase with Beautiful Buzzz. The energy level was high and the vibes were on full tilt. There was so much love in the air and no egos. It was like I knew every one for years even though I just met them. Everyone was so down to earth. It was good to be around like minded individuals that had the same goals and passion as me. I met a lot of good people and had the time of my life playing a B2B set with the Legend, KJ Sawka. (That man is a machine and one of the nicest dudes I know by the way). I would be hard pressed to have had a better time.
Q. How do you like working with Warpaint?
A. Working with Warpaint has been one of the best and most rewarding experiences I've ever had. It's been a chance to help other artists develop and pursue their dreams and I believe in every guy on the label. I teach them everything I know every chance I get and they teach me alot also. I had to learn how to do a lot of things on my own; at Warpaint we managed to develop a culture that eliminates that. So it feels good to help people circumnavigate some of the struggle I've had and work toward becoming the best producer they can. I've learned a lot helping Kris Ware operate the label and it's been like family working with the artists. I consider every person on the label a friend and we treat each other like family.
Q. Are you excited about the next 6 months
A. For sure! I'm ecstatic. I've been finishing a ton of new music under FOMO that personally encompasses the elements of everything I love listening to and playing out. I really broke down what makes me love a song and I made sure every piece of that was a part of my new music. As an artist I feel like it really represents me and has a substance and weight you don't hear often enough. I can't wait to let everyone hear it.
As a label co-owner we also have some amazing projects and partnerships on the way. I can't go in to detail about much at the moment but I can let you know we're super excited.
Q. If you could tell your fans anything what would it be?
A. I would tell them what I always tell them, never give up on their dreams and though times may get tough to stick it out and see it through because nothing is more rewarding than doing what you love. I would also let them know I appreciate all the support and their company on the journey we're on together. I couldn't do it without you so thank you for your support and courage.
