Featured Catalyst: goldAP
Last year I was able to take a trip up to Seattle. Somehow on this trip I was fortunate to cross paths with goldAP in the hotel that I was staying in. It is kind of weird how you meet certain people and there is something different about them - something that causes you to dig a bit deeper and see what they are about. We told each other about our crafts and exchanged information. After that I have been in contact with him and watched/listened as his music and passion continued to grow. I am always blown away by people that have so much passion for their craft. It is a beautiful thing. I am a fan of of goldAP, not only for his music but also his character as a person. So with that being said, take a minute and get to know goldAP.
So who is goldAP?
You know, I never had a good answer to this question. On the outside, I’m an aspiring music artist from Torrance, California but I feel like it goes deeper than just labels. And I’m still learning about myself every day. In the end, I want to be remembered by the impact I have on people listening to my music.
How long have you been an Emcee?
I would have to say that college is where I developed a real love for the intricacies of creating music. At that time, I didn’t have much experience recording at professional studios but me and a few friends would always make music at our apartment. I started to go to many concerts, shows, and festivals. There is nothing like experiencing a live performance, especially when you already know so much of that artist’s material. One of the first shows I ever went to was at the UC Riverside Spring Splash and it featured Little Brother, Murs, and Nas. The next show I saw was Wiz Khalifa during his Waken Baken tour at the Music Box in Los Angeles. After watching that show, I knew that this is what I wanted to do.
What does an average day look like for goldAP?
My days are never the same. Some days are spent writing and recording music, other days are spent at working & making money to support my passion. Whatever it may be, I am always planning for the next step of my journey.
Was there a specific instance in time that you knew that you wanted to give it 100?
Most definitely. Last year I remember a moment when I was at my desk writing new material for the album and I thought to myself, “I really don’t go out anymore.” It was a real crazy moment for me because I realized that I had disappeared from a lot of my friend’s lives. Moving from SoCal to Seattle had isolated me from any distractions and I was able to focus on my craft in an intense manner. I got a bit lonely at times through 2016, but this was the year that I made up my mind to go 100.
One thing to me that really stands out is the hustle. Basically, the continuous grind and effort you put in to your projects. What do you think drives you to push so hard?
Music has always had such a big influence in my life. When someone tells me that I made an impact on their life with my art, it’s the best feeling in the world.
I have come across several Catalysts in my life that opened my eyes to different outlooks and new ideas. Have you come across any in your life that you would like to speak of?
I like to surround myself with people who want to make a difference. Progression is extremely important to me and surrounding myself with others who have the same drive and passion motivates me to accomplish my goals.
Are there any future projects in the works?
I have my first album dropping July 7, 2017. The project is called La Wasabi and I am extremely excited to share it with my fans. I felt completely comfortable and in my zone during the making of this album. Other than that, I’m always making new music. Stay tuned.
How do people listen to your music or how can they follow goldAP?
You can find my music everywhere. iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, Soundcloud, all that good stuff. And I usually post updates on my Instagram: @goldap_
If you could have someone take one thing away from goldAP after reading this, what would it be?
Blood, sweat, and tears went into this last project. La Wasabi is a great representation of me as an artist and I really hope you enjoy the album. The process has been very grueling at times but I am here for the long run no matter what. I love making music.
Do you have any advice for other artists trying to push forward in their craft?
Don’t give up.