Meet Devon YP | Artist & Music Producer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Devon YP and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Devon, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
The thought process behind starting my music label business was driven by a combination of my core attributes: perseverance, optimism, high IQ knowledge of music, and a natural gift for recognizing what works. I firmly believed that with my hard work, dedication, and positive mindset, success was attainable. I had an unwavering determination to overcome any obstacles or setbacks that came my way.

My optimism played a crucial role in fueling my motivation. I always believed in the potential of my own music and the value it could bring to audiences. This positive outlook not only kept me going during challenging times but also inspired me to continually improve and refine my craft.

Having a deep understanding of music and a high IQ enabled me to make informed decisions. I possessed extensive knowledge of different music genres, trends, and audience preferences. This expertise helped me create a unique sound and style that resonated with my target audience. I could experiment with different elements, techniques, and production approaches to create music that stood out.

Moreover, I possessed a natural gift for recognizing what works in the music industry. This intuition, combined with my knowledge and experience, allowed me to identify the elements that would connect with listeners. Whether it was catchy melodies, engaging lyrics, or innovative production, I could tap into these elements to create music that had a strong impact.

In summary, the thought process behind starting my music label business was driven by the belief in my attributes. My perseverance, optimism, high IQ knowledge of music, and intuitive sense of what works all played integral roles. These qualities guided my decision-making, motivated me to continually improve my music, and ultimately led to the growth and achievements of my music label business, focused primarily on representing and promoting my own work.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
The distinctive element that sets me apart in my artistic journey is the versatility in my music. As a black and Puerto Rican male who grew up in foster care, I was exposed to a multitude of cultures from a young age. This exposure, from differing religions and foods to diverse communication styles, significantly influenced my art. It not only helped shape my album cover designs, which I personally create, but also the diverse styles of hip-hop and cultures that I blend into my music. I relish the fusion of funk, R&B, and hip-hop in my tracks.

What I’m most proud of is the journey I’ve embarked on. I’ve transitioned from freestyling for friends on the block to penning my thoughts and converting them into a dream and a thriving business. I’ve had four major labels approach me with signing offers, but I’ve always believed in my unique craft and the potential of leading my own path.

What excites me the most is witnessing the manifestation of my childhood dreams. Seeing everything come to life often stirs up strong emotions in me; the vision is indeed real. Admittedly, the journey hasn’t been a cakewalk. There have been countless nights spent working until 3 am, constantly adapting to the ever-changing industry. My childhood experiences in foster care, constantly on the move, prepared me for this dynamic environment. It’s become my norm, and surprisingly, I find myself thriving in it.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned, and would advise anyone else, is to identify your personal strengths and find a way to market them. This has been my golden egg of success recently.

I want America, and indeed the world, to understand my story and realize that appearances can be deceiving. When you look at me, you might not immediately perceive the potential for greatness. But the next time you encounter a kid like me, I hope my story encourages you to think otherwise.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting the area, I would take them to Addison, a suburb in Dallas, Texas, that is filled with excitement and entertainment. Our week-long adventure would be packed with glitz, glamour, and unforgettable experiences.

To start our trip, we would immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Addison. The bustling streets and lively ambiance would set the tone for our explorations. Addison is known for its unique charm and diverse offerings, making it the perfect destination to show my friend the best time ever.

Of course, no visit to Addison would be complete without a trip to the renowned Dallas Galleria. This impressive 8-story shopping mall would be our first stop, where we could indulge in some retail therapy and discover hidden gems in the upscale stores and boutiques. From fashion to home decor, the Galleria offers a wide range of options to suit every taste.

When it comes to dining, Addison truly shines. Along Beltline Road, we would embark on a culinary adventure, exploring the diverse food scene. From high-end dining establishments to trendy eateries, we would sample a variety of cuisines, satisfying our taste buds with a fusion of flavors and culinary delights.

As the sun sets, we would dive into Addison’s legendary nightlife. The suburb boasts a vibrant club scene, and I would make sure my friend experiences it firsthand. We would venture into one of the popular nightclubs, dancing the night away to pulsating beats, mingling with the lively crowd, and creating unforgettable memories.

To balance the excitement, we would also carve out time to relax and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of Addison’s parks. A day spent in one of these charming green spaces would provide a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle. We could lounge under the shade of trees, have a leisurely picnic, and simply appreciate the beauty of nature.

For beer enthusiasts, Addison is a paradise waiting to be explored. The suburb is home to several local breweries, each offering its own unique flavors and craft beers. We would take immersive tours, learn about the brewing process, and savor the distinctive tastes that make these breweries stand out. It would be a fantastic opportunity to appreciate the artistry behind brewing and indulge in the local beer culture.

Throughout our week-long adventure, we might even have a brush with fame. Addison has a reputation for attracting local celebrities like Tony Romo and Erykah Badu. As we explore the suburb’s hotspots, there’s always the possibility of spotting these familiar faces, adding an extra thrill to our trip.

By following this itinerary, my best friend would have the time of their life in Addison, Dallas, Texas. From shopping extravaganzas and culinary delights to vibrant nightlife, serene parks, and the chance to rub elbows with local celebrities, we would experience the best that this suburb has to offer. Addison truly encapsulates the essence of a memorable and exciting trip.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First and foremost, I must give a hearty shoutout to my beautiful wife, who has been my staunchest supporter. She’s not just my partner in life but also my cheerleader, enthusiastically rooting for me in every endeavor.

I am also blessed with a tight-knit group of friends who consistently push me to reach my potential. They see what I can become and are instrumental in ensuring I never lose sight of my abilities.

Furthermore, I owe a significant part of my success to the towns of Louisville and Plattsmouth in Nebraska, where I grew up. The support I receive from these communities is immeasurable. It’s as if I have the entire towns as my fan base, cheering me on in my journey. The feedback and responses from the people, especially the young ones who still reside in these towns, gives me a sense of purpose. They believe in me and express how my story inspires them to believe in their own dreams.

Lastly, I want to dedicate a shoutout to my late father, who always believed in my talent for music. He passed away three years ago, but his words still resonate with me. He told me, “Son, you have a gift for this music game, just do it differently,” and I believe I have honored his words. My success is also his, and I will always remember him with love and respect.

Each of these individuals and communities has played a fundamental role in my journey, and I believe it’s essential to recognize their contributions.

Website: https://dead-president-ent.square.site/

Instagram: Devon.YP

Image Credits
Yes these are all mine