Klazik Talks Music Journey and New Single ‘Get to You’

The Transformative Power of Musical Recognition

Recognition can be a pivotal catalyst for any artist. For Klazik, winning the Iowa Music Awards for Best Performance in 2022 and Lyricist of the Year in 2023 marked a significant turning point in his career. These accolades not only validated his talent but also influenced his creative direction. “Being recognized opened me up to making a little more palatable music,” Klazik admits.

This transformation is vividly illustrated in Klazik’s evolution from a purely “bars first” artist to one capable of crafting more mainstream-friendly tracks. The creation of his song, “Get to You,” is a direct result of this shift. Klazik mentions, “When my mindset shifted…on the business side, that’s when my talent got the platform it deserves.” This highlights the dual importance of artistic skill and shrewd business strategies in sustaining a successful music career.

The Art of Continuous Improvement Through Diverse Performances

Klazik’s journey through different geographies and his experiences in various performance settings have significantly shaped his artistry. From his time in the Navy stationed in Virginia, which allowed him to tap into the local music scene, to his current locale in Des Moines, Iowa, these diverse experiences have enriched his musical palette. “What you learn as you get into new areas, man, the world is bigger than what you know, and it’s real ones everywhere,” Klazik reflects.

Preparation and readiness have been key elements in Klazik’s approach to performances. Whether it’s opening for DJ Luke Nasty or performing at an arena football game halftime show, Klazik emphasizes the importance of being ever-ready. “I take my stage show seriously,” he asserts, mentioning his personal rule, “No song…before I perform a song one time, I practiced it a hundred times.” Such diligence ensures that each performance remains impactful and authentic to his audience.

Combining Lyrical Mastery with Business Acumen

Klazik’s dedication to his craft is underscored by his rigorous approach to writing and performing. He describes his process: “I haven’t used pen and paper to create a song in over 20 years…I just let them \[the thoughts]come to me.” This technique not only demonstrates his confidence in his lyrical abilities but also his adaptability in a digital age.

However, Klazik’s journey also highlights the crucial balance between artistry and business acumen. He recounts a fundamental realization: “I believe the fairy tale that a lot of artists believe that, you know, all we have to do is just be good or be nice in terms of the rapper. You know, I just thought all I had to do was be nice and I could make it. But that’s just not the case.”

This acknowledgment has driven Klazik to immerse himself in understanding the business aspects of the music industry, a vital step for any aspiring artist. He emphasizes, “Every time you get a chance to hear somebody explain to you how the business works, take it.” This commitment to continuous learning and networking is integral to navigating the complexities of the music business.

Reaffirming Commitment and Passion

Staying motivated and evolving as an artist, especially after significant achievements, requires a blend of passion and a commitment to one’s craft. Klazik finds joy in the process itself, stating, “I just enjoy rapping. If it wasn’t fun to me, I would have quit a long time ago.” This intrinsic motivation is crucial for sustaining a long-term career in an industry known for its fickleness.

Additionally, surrounding oneself with fresh, energetic individuals can provide renewed perspectives and inspiration. Klazik balances his own seasoned outlook with mentorship roles, aiding new artists in refining their own performances. “I enjoy seeing people get closer to their dreams and helping them out however I can,” he shares, emphasizing the reciprocal benefits of such engagements.

For Klazik, his music represents more than just personal expression; it is a testament to the evolving landscape of hip-hop. As he continues to champion thoughtful lyricism and sophisticated narratives, he illustrates how hip-hop artists can age with the genre, catering to an audience that has grown up alongside them.

With each performance, business decision, and song like “Get to You,” Klazik redefines what it means to be a hip-hop artist in the contemporary era, blending old-school authenticity with modern sensibilities. His journey serves as both an inspiration and a blueprint for aspiring artists dedicated to carving out their own space in the music industry.