GET TO KNOW: Channing

After breaking through with his stunning debut album 'Yung Buck' last year, New Jersey-based rapper Channing is back at it once again with his pulsing new single 'BIG BANG'.

Adopting more of that fresh and captivating hip-hop groove he is known for, 'BIG BANG' sees him come back in remarkable style. With his fresh and compelling flow riding a bed of bouncing beats and basslines throughout, he looks set to make some major waves in the months ahead.

So with the new single available now, we sat down with him to find out more about his origins and influences over the years.

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What was the first band or artist you fell in love with?

The very first artist I really first gravitated towards was J Cole. His story telling and agenda in his music was different from anyone I’ve ever heard, especially in the time I first discovered him. Was definitely a big influence especially in my younger days.

Did you ever form a band when you were younger and if so, what did they sound like?

When I was younger I actually formed a band with my Brother and my Pops called Onomatopoeia. We played about twice ever but the idea was there. Was always missing one band member so it was mostly my Brother and I playing.

What has been your primary inspiration in writing music?

My primary inspiration for writing my music as simple as it seems, is mostly just my life experience. Music has always been my therapy so whenever I get to writing, the picture paints itself. I either write about something I need to get off my chest, an idea that’s been on my mind, or something I think someone else needs to hear. And if I ever run into writers block, I just give myself time to live a little. Let life provide a new prescription.

What is a song you wish you had written yourself?

There is a large list of songs I’m jealous of but one that instantly comes to mind is “Love Yourz” by J Cole. Everything about the song is a masterpiece. The structure, the sound, the lyrics. It’s all insanely impactful and humbling.

If there was any moment in your career you could relive, what would it be?

For me my career really just started but even so, if I could relive any moment in my career so far it would probably be my first public release date. Just to go back and be able to see again how different my mindset was. How much I’ve grown mentally and how much I’ve learned about myself since then. How much I’ve built so far.

Which artist would you most love to share a stage with?

The artist I'd most definitely love to share the stage with the most is Toon B. He’s one of my favorite artist out for sure and our chemistry and energy would be unmatched. Sharing a main stage with him would be nothing but chaos.

And is there an artist you would love to collaborate with as well?

Oof. There are too many to name honestly. But my number one artist pick for a collab would be J Cole. He’s had so much of an influence on my music.

Where do you see yourself in five years time?

It’s hard to tell what the future holds. But in five years time I strive to have a following of my own and to be able to work on my craft full time for a living. To see the influence and impact I’ve made with my music through the crowd.

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Channing's new single 'BIG BANG' is available to stream now. Check out the new video for it below.