Today we’d like to introduce you to Malik Johnson.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I started my musical journey in the third grade when I was introduced to the cello. I was in a program from my hometown of Milwaukee, Wisconsin called the “Progressions Program” of the Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra. Over time I was able to really develop and enhance my skills on the cello which eventually led me to win performance awards, tour in Europe, and even be invited to the White House to meet Michelle Obama. The cello made me fall in love with music and I eventually wanted to create pieces of my own. I asked my parents for a MacBook Pro for Christmas when I was in the fifth grade, and I produced beats on GarageBand. As I progressed with my production skills throughout the years, I was able to develop a sound that was true to who I was, and included the musical training I have had throughout my life. I was producing beats throughout middle and high school, and my senior of high school, I decided I wanted to create actual songs with lyrics. A year and a half later, I’ve been able to create a decent size fanbase in the Midwest which I am extremely thankful for.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I’d say one of the harder parts of being in the music industry is knowing that you have put out a good product, but still not seeing the results you want. Sometimes this can make someone try to follow popular trends or try to be something they’re not. However, I learned that no matter if you get 20 listens or 2,000,000 listens, you have to stay honest with yourself and stay true to the sound that you believe in.
Please tell us about 99TheProducer.
As a producer and musician I definitely specialize in creating music that is ear friendly, and is cohesive and efficient. A lot of people know me for playing the cello, so incorporating string parts in my music is one of things that sets me apart from other artists in the industry. I produce, write, play, and record every song that I put out and that is also another things that makes me stand out.
Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood?
I never was someone who tried to act “hard” or tried to put on a persona as someone who had to be “super cool” so the biggest thing that is most important to my success is being who I have always been. I’m someone who believes in bringing people together, spreading love, and staying true to myself. Honesty is so important to me. I feel like people see that whether it is scrolling through my Instagram, or listening to my music. I never want to portray myself as someone I am not, and people see the truth in me through my music.
Contact Info:
- Email: 99theproducer@gmail.com
- Instagram: @99TheProducer
- Twitter: @99TheProducer
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