Today we’d like to introduce you to Cysum.
Hi Cysum, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I use to produce music under a different alias name before DJing/producing under “Cysūm”. As an artist, while working with other artist, I saw the challenges of getting our music to DJs and actually having them play it. So in 2019, I began my professional career as a DJ to be able to play my own music and other local artist too.
Alright, 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?
In the music industry there are a lot of gatekeepers and it is about who you know. So starting out, I knew many people but not all of the right people that could actually be an asset to helping my career. In addition, as an independent artist, you have to be your own manager, promoter, marketer, videographer, content creator, etc until you have the budge to delegate these tasks. Staying active on social media is a challenge because it takes away from the time I just want to spend doing my art. Then it seems like if you don’t have a lot of followers on social platforms, then you don’t seem as credible as an artist/DJ/producer. Even though I’ve been booked & busy, I’ve been skipped over on DJ gigs because they were only looking at my followers which does dictate the people actually support me in real life. However, I’m really great at networking so the connections that I’ve made have carried me a long way. I’m now signed to a distribution label (Greater Than Distribution) that helps to offset some of the tasks for my success.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’ve technically been making music since I was 16years old. Over the time, my taste for music and influences have evolved. As a result, the music that I produced/create/compose/DJ has a very eclectic sound. I want to give my listeners an experience when hearing my music. I believe my fusion of styles is what makes my music unique. It doesn’t quite fit solely in one genre.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
I love being a creative! I love being able to create & compose music that just feels good to me. When I’m in my zone DJing or making music, it is therapeutic for me.
However, I don’t like feeling force producing/compose music based off the “standards” of society or the industry. Creating music because “this is what they’re listening to now” has never sat well with me. I don’t want to be boxed in and become a GMO artist.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.cysummusic.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cysummusic
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@cysummusic
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/cysummusic
Image Credits
Tia Boyd
