-Introduce yourself; give a little background about yourself and what you do?
My name is Sean Miller, known as “sean IS…” and “seanISrael” on the music side of things. I’m an emcee and visual artist originally from Norfolk, Virginia, currently residing in Woodbridge in Northern Virginia. I am a full-time Director of Marketer as well as a Minister in Training. Let’s just say that I wear a lot of hats.
-What do feels separates you from others in your field?
Well, I sort of label myself as a visual artist who happens to rap. There’s a level of imagery that I try to get across to those who listen to my music. People tend to know me for one or the other but I want them to understand the unified effort. I’m a bit different from a lot of emcees in that I approach my music from a perspective that I need to be able to look myself in the mirror after I make it, even at the expense of commercial appeal. My art is just that…art.
-How does society and its struggles act you and others I your field?
The happenings in society affect me personally and artistically. What goes on around artists serves as inspiration for material, rather positive or negative. I believe that most of us reflect what we know. That’s not always the case, but something in society prompted an emcee to say what he or she said. I know where I am from and where I currently am, so that is reflected in my music and hopefully is relatable to listeners.
-Where do you see the current state of hip hop at in 5 years?
I forsee more of the same. Hip-Hop has been experiencing an imbalance on the industry side of things for quite some time. However, I see the pulse of the game resting in the hands of the artists who are still unsigned and making uncompromised music from the heart. Trust me, there are still cats who have maintained their artistic integrity in spite of scoring a recording contract, but I see reality through those who are still at home writing like their life depended on it. Those are the voices of impact, even if large audiences don’t regularly hear them.
-What role does family and friends play in your career?
Family and friends are the support systems. When the CDs aren’t moving, and the shows aren’t coming in the way I would like them to, I just need to know that someone is in my corner. I can trust in their love and willingness to give constructive criticism.
-What do you thinks separates winners from losers?
That depends on what the definitions of winners and losers are. I personally think that if I can make music and feel confident in what I’m doing, then I am a winner. Many people consider losers to be those who don’t get commercial and financial success from what they do.
Knowing who the target audience is vital in the life of an artist. We have to know who can relate to and enjoy our music, and how to get it in their hands. Sometimes this is not profitable but it helps to build a loyal following.
-What advice can you give others in your field that you learned thru trial and error?
Here are a few nuggets I have learned: Persistence is key. Doing exciting live shows helps to build a fan base. Sound quality can make or break a project. Building relationships is more effective that advertising.
-Do you have any political views since everyone in today’s society does?
I’m not that heavy into politics but view voting as an important way to exercise our rights. If voting is not possible, I believe that there are many other ways to be active in the community.
-How do you feel about the rumors about Obama that’s rampant on the Intertnet?
It bugs me sometimes, but it’s a part of the political game. It seems to be magnified to some degree. I think it’s advantageous that we hope that our President, whoever it is, is successful because in some ways if he is, then the people are.
-Do you have any religious views? Are you religious?
I’m a Christian with a simple view. “I suck. God doesn’t.”
-What are some of your influences in your life?
Some of my influences include my failures because they ultimately led to some victories as I’ve grown. Even the things I haven’t conquered give me something to shoot for. Of course, I dig dope Hip-Hop and Visual Artists from various times.
-Switching to a serious subject, what is you view on drugs? Users, Abusers, Pushers?
Well, I consider drugs to be a means of escape. Escapism is something that I can relate to as I have done things in my life to get away from stress and pain. However, I think that users, abusers, and pushers are all able to find something bigger in life through God. I won’t cast judgment because that’s not my place. However, with every second we are given, there’s an opportunity to grow.
-What can the public look for from you in the future?
Shoot, whatever God has planned. Lord willing, people will hear new music that shows my heart for the culture, something that they can vibe with. Hopefully, I’ll be back on the gallery side of things with Fine Arts with some urban themed works. I just plan on progressing and being positive while bringing others along for the journey.
Anything you want to say before this interview is over
For anyone who is reading this, I hope you find encouragement! Life gets difficult but there’s always a chance for it to get better. To check out what’s going on with me in music and art, check out my websites, www.seanisrael.comand www.seanlmiller.com. Much love.
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Sean L. Miller
Artist. Visionary. Human.
www.seanlmiller.com
seanis.blogspot.com
